Wollaston 2026 Municipal Election candidate profiles

October 9, 2026

With the municipal election on Oct. 26 approaching, we invited each candidate to respond to the same four questions about their reason
for running, priorities and vision for the municipality, qualifications, and contact information. Their responses are published below as
submitted, subject only to length and standard copyediting for style, grammar, and clarity. Candidates were asked to
keep their responses focused on their own qualifications, priorities and vision for the municipality.
Candidates are listed alphabetically within each position they are running for.

Darlene Colton — Running for Mayor

1. What made you want to run for municipal office?

I’m Darlene Colton. My husband and I have been residents of Wollaston Township since 2014, when our house on the lake was purchased.

Before making that investment, my husband and I resided in Red Eagle Park for 10 wonderful years. This experience made us want to purchase a home in Coe Hill. Where else can you walk out your door in the summer and wade into the lake, hop on an ATV and engage in the serenity, walking the roads and railbed with our dog(s), as they enjoy the great outdoors?

Winter is also special, skating on the lake, getting out on our snowmobiles and following the wonderful trails that North Hastings has to offer.

I’m running because I believe Wollaston Township needs strong, approachable leadership that listens, communicates openly and focuses on common-sense solutions.

I would like to see betterment in Wollaston Township. All stakeholders need to be able to live, work and thrive in the community.

I understand how council meetings and committees of a municipality work and the importance of closed sessions not being released. Confidentiality is a high priority and must be followed. I don’t want our community having large legal invoices.

My passion has always been representation, advocacy and leadership. I want accountability, transparency and communications from myself and the council.

2. What do you see as the biggest issues facing the municipality?

I believe the biggest issues facing Wollaston Township are the financial state.

An evaluation of the operational budget/capital budget, reserves, bank and investment portfolio needs an in-depth review. A small tax base can’t afford to be spending $80,000 plus a year on legal.

These types of funds need to be spent on items that benefit the community. The community needs to have input into the strategic plan, as this will help council know what is important to the residents of Wollaston.

An in-depth analysis of the Asset Management Plan will provide council with the knowledge as to where the township stands with its capital assets such as buildings, roads, and bridges.

We need to know the present and future of where reserve funds need to be utilized and the cost, which will impact all stakeholders in Wollaston Township.

All funds from tax dollars need to be spent responsibly within a thought-out budget to ensure residents receive the greatest value for their dollar.

Together, the community and council will have to work as a team to move our future forward.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

I participated in council during 2018-2022, starting as a councillor, then council voted me to become the deputy mayor when a vacancy occurred.

While on council, I studied AMTCO’s Municipal Accounting and Finance and the Municipal Law Program. Having a financial understanding as a bookkeeper, this educational knowledge gave me a better understanding of municipal finance. With Municipal Law, I obtained a greater understanding of bylaws and legislation.

While on council, I was instrumental in helping Wollaston Township grow its reserves to $7.2 million.

A new fire hall was designed and started before the end of our council term. This building was dilapidated, needing replacement 50 years previously but was put off by previous councils.

As part of council, we were able to purchase land adjacent to the fire hall with a grant. This lot was designated for the new library, community hub and township offices. Plans were developed and put in place; the project was shovel-ready to go.

Presently, I volunteer on the Bancroft Safety and Wellness Committee as well as serve Maggie’s Resource on the executive board as treasurer. Previously, I served with North Hastings Fish Hatchery and the North Hastings Library Board.

I understand how committees of municipalities work and the importance of following procedures. Confidentiality is a high priority.

4. How can people get a hold of you or find you online to learn more about your campaign?

I may be reached by cell phone at 705-328-3418, and texting is welcome.

Email address: darlene4wollastonmayor@gmail.com

Facebook: darlene4wollastonmayor

Michael Fuerth — Running for Mayor

1. What made you want to run for municipal office?

I chose to run for municipal office because I care deeply about Wollaston Township and the people who call it home. I wanted to use my experience, knowledge and commitment to help strengthen our community and ensure residents have a meaningful voice in the decisions that affect them.

Municipal government has a direct impact on everyday life — from roads, fire protection and waste management to recreation, responsible development and financial planning. I believe I could make a positive contribution by listening carefully, asking important questions and working collaboratively with council, staff and residents.

Public service is about more than making decisions; it is about being accountable, approachable and prepared to stand up for the best interests of the entire municipality. I ran for office because I wanted to help protect what makes Wollaston special while planning responsibly for its future.

It is an honour to serve this community, and I remain committed to practical leadership, responsible budgeting, open communication and building a strong, sustainable Wollaston Township for generations to come.

2. What do you see as the biggest issues facing the municipality, and how would you go about solving them?

The biggest issue facing Wollaston Township is balancing the rising cost of municipal services with the financial realities of a small, rural tax base. Residents expect and deserve reliable roads, effective fire protection, responsible waste management and well-maintained community facilities. However, inflation, increasing insurance costs, aging infrastructure and limited funding make it increasingly challenging to provide these services without placing an unreasonable burden on taxpayers.

Long-term infrastructure planning is also a priority. We must continue investing in our roads, bridges, municipal buildings and equipment while strengthening reserves and pursuing available provincial and federal grants. Responsible budgeting and a strong asset management plan are essential to protecting the municipality’s financial future.

Another significant issue is managing growth while preserving the rural character, natural environment and quality of life that make Wollaston special. Appropriate development can increase assessment, create opportunities and strengthen the local economy, but it must be carefully planned and supported by suitable municipal services.

We must also prepare for emergencies, including severe weather, wildfires, power outages and other climate-related risks. Supporting our volunteer fire department and strengthening community preparedness will remain extremely important.

Addressing these challenges will require experienced leadership, open communication and cooperation among Council, staff, residents and other levels of government. By planning ahead and making practical, financially responsible decisions, we can continue building a strong and sustainable future for Wollaston Township.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

What makes me best suited for the role is my experience, knowledge of municipal government and proven commitment to the residents of Wollaston Township. I understand the responsibilities of council, the challenges facing a small rural municipality and the importance of making informed, financially responsible decisions.

I bring a practical and balanced approach to leadership. I listen to residents, ask important questions and work respectfully with council and staff to find solutions that benefit the entire community. Effective leadership requires cooperation, open communication, accountability and transparency.

My experience has provided me with a strong understanding of municipal budgeting, infrastructure planning, emergency services and responsible development. I recognize the importance of maintaining essential services while respecting the financial pressures facing taxpayers.

Most importantly, I care deeply about Wollaston Township. I am accessible, accountable and committed to protecting the rural character and community spirit that make our municipality special. My combination of experience, sound judgment and dedication provides the steady leadership needed to address today’s challenges and plan responsibly for Wollaston’s future.

4. How can people get a hold of you or find you online to learn more about your campaign?

Residents who would like to learn more about my campaign, share their concerns or ask questions are welcome to contact me directly.

Mary Byrne — Running for Deputy Mayor

1. What made you want to run for municipal office?

I am a professional civil engineer with 30 years of leadership experience in infrastructure design, construction, operations and asset management.

I have been a property owner in Wollaston Township since 2005, and am an engaged citizen who pays attention to local issues. At times, our municipal government has struggled to focus on municipal responsibilities and the pressures of managing within a small budget.

I have a unique set of skills that I believe can be of service in Wollaston as a member of council.

2. What do you see as the biggest issues facing the municipality, and how would you go about solving them?

I see three issues for Wollaston:

Reliable service delivery

Service delivery must be our first priority. As council, we must be supportive of staff to ensure that services continue to be delivered to the expected level.

I have watched previous councils get in the way of service delivery by voting on ideas that had nothing to do with core service delivery. This results in a waste of time, money and resources. We must focus on our core operations.

Affordability for property tax payors

Wollaston has a very small population, with a relatively high property tax burden.

Not all of the expenses of the township are in the control of the township. Therefore, it is essential that council always considers the impact on property tax increases for the expense items.

This can be done by:

(A) ensuring that expenses are only incurred if they are necessary,

(B) creating a plan to internally fund new capital so that there is no sudden property tax shock.

Sustainable asset management

In 2017, Ontario enacted a Regulation called O.Reg. 588/17, Asset Management Planning for Municipal Infrastructure. Now, all Ontario municipalities must strategically plan for the maintenance, replacement, and financing of their infrastructure.

Wollaston Township has not completed the required asset planning, including the financial planning. This risks operating in a ‘run-to-fail’ mode for its roads, bridges, and Coe Hill infrastructure.

We must begin to create financial reserves of at least 2.5 per cent of asset value, so that we can afford to maintain our assets.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

Ontario municipalities manage local infrastructure, community services, and public safety that directly affect residents’ daily lives.

Deputy mayor is a leadership position. I have 30 years of proven leadership abilities and results.

In my career, I have been responsible for multi-million dollar operations and capital programs. I have led large staff organizations with a diverse mix of skilled trades and professionals in technical and administrative capacities.

I am a collaborative and forward-thinking leader who can balance strategic planning with operational excellence. I have been successful in my career because I value the contributions of the many individuals who work together to achieve a common goal.

As a member of Wollaston council, I will apply my knowledge, skills and experience to support our staff as they deliver the services to our citizens.

As deputy mayor, I will support and collaborate with our mayor and councillors to ensure we are delivering, planning and maintaining our infrastructure.

4. How can people get a hold of you or find you online to learn more about your campaign?

I can be reached:

• by phone at 289-987-7274 and leaving a message.

• by email at mary.byrne.p.eng@gmail.com

• on LinkedIn at: linkedin.com/in/mary-byrne-p-eng-61162022/

Janet Whiteway — Running for Deputy Mayor

1. What made you want to run for municipal office?

I had always wanted to run for council for the experience and to serve my community. Municipal governance is where you really deal with issues that are at the heart of a community’s basic and fundamental needs.

It’s a great way to get to know your neighbours and work together to make our township appealing to younger families and a safe, enjoyable place to live.

2. What do you see as the biggest issues facing the municipality and how would you go about solving them?

There are some issues which seem to have been very divisive in our community.

Many years ago, we were bequeathed a lovely piece of land called Nellie Lunn Park. It sort of sat unnoticed and unused for many years. One council decided to sell the property, and that’s kind of where the issue became contentious.

People decided they wanted to save the park and have it as a trail for everyone to use. This opened a can of worms with regard to many issues, including encroachment on private property, access, trespassing issues, up-keep, long term management and what seems to be a lack of financial planning for maintaining the trail in perpetuity.

We need to come together, lay down all the facts and find a solution that has everyone’s interests at heart.

Last summer saw near-drought conditions which put us in harm’s way of a few fires, and left many wells dry. I’d like to make sure we are prepared for these eventualities by identifying those in our community who are vulnerable, and giving folks the best information we can about protecting themselves and preparing ahead of time for whatever nature sends us.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

In my line of work, I have to work in harmony, literally and figuratively, with the people around me.

My strengths include really caring about my community by volunteering and supporting initiatives that benefit our township, such as the Legion, the food bank, our businesses, the school, and the library, to name a few.

I worked in retail management for many years and understand how to work together as a team to achieve goals. As a teacher and performing artist, I use my skills to impart knowledge and help bring joy and beauty into the world through my artistic endeavours.

4. How can people get a hold of you or find you online to learn more about your campaign?

People can reach out to me through my Facebook page, “Janet Whiteway Candidate for Deputy Mayor of Wollaston Township.”

JD Fentie — — Running for Councillor

1. What made you want to run for municipal office?

I initially ran for council back in 2022 as part of the community initiative to ‘Save Nellie Lunn Park.’ I had retired from a career in business and felt that my experience could also help address financial and operational challenges.

The existing council planned to sell the park, and the community came together to oppose the sale. As a long-term property owner in the township, I felt it was shortsighted to sell this key forest asset. With community support, partnering with various local groups, we were able to reopen the park at minimal cost.

I’m running again because I now have a deeper understanding of the challenges facing Wollaston, and I believe my operations and financial management background is more useful than ever if we are to face these challenges without excessive tax increases.

I would also like to see the Nellie Lunn Park story come to a conclusion, finalizing an agreement with Kawartha Land Trust.

We’ve built a strong management team at the township, and I look forward to facing these challenges with them. Council provides direction; this team makes it happen.

2. What do you see as the biggest issues facing the municipality, and how would you go about solving them?

Wollaston Township, like many other small municipalities in Ontario, is facing severe financial constraints.

The township’s Asset Management Plan provides a good starting point for understanding the challenge. This outlines the townships assets, their value and their remaining lifespan. From this, we can determine the amount and timing of costs related to assets such as roads, bridges and buildings.

Based on this, the township can develop a plan to address these costs by (i) allocating funds from reserves or taxes, (ii) borrowing, (iii) deferring work where possible, and (iv) retiring assets.

To reduce the cost impact, it is important to aggressively pursue any funding opportunities available at the Provincial and Federal level. This is already happening, and if elected, I intend to continue this focus.

Increased revenue through economic development must also be pursued by highlighting what is unique to Wollaston, and that is our natural environment: lakes, trails, forests.

Our summer and winter trails are looked after by very capable volunteer snowmobile and ATV clubs. Our lake association is the envy of other townships. An underserved part of our natural environment is our wilderness trails, and that provides an opportunity for nature-based economic development.

An example of this is Nellie Lunn Park, a 100-acre wilderness area, donated to the people of Wollaston by a World War II veteran, and reopened in 2025. The 2026 Family Day Fishing Derby is evidence that this approach works. Around 100 people attended, and it was well reported in the local press and on social media.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

My previous operations and financial management experience combined with the past four years on Council put me in a position to help Wollaston Township face its financial challenges.

I have broad experience with the various aspects of municipal governance through membership on the Bancroft OPP Police Services Board, the Wollaston Public Library Board and the Municipal Dog Pound Board.

I worked with the Mayor, contractor, engineer and Fire Chief to coordinate completion of the Coe Hill Fire Hall project in 2023.

During the 2025 budget discussions, I suggested an approach to council that reduced the proposed tax increase of almost 13 to 5 per cent.

Under council direction, I oversaw the project to reopen Nellie Lunn Park in 2025 and came in on schedule and under budget, with minimal cost to the taxpayers due to significant volunteer labour and financial donations.

I have worked closely with volunteers and organizations such as the Bancroft Area Stewardship Council, Kijicho Manito Madaouskarini, Kawartha Land Trust and others.

To overcome the challenges facing the township, we need both financial and government experience along with creative thinking and an ability to get things done. My track record shows that I can deliver this.

4. How can people get a hold of you or find you online to learn more about your campaign?

Website: www.jd4wollaston.ca

Email: jd@jd4wollaston.ca

Phone: 613-318-4235

Facebook: facebook.com/jd4wollaston

Roxanne Lambert — Running for Councillor

1. What made you want to run for municipal office?

I had a rewarding 32-year career with the Region of Durham, where I gained extensive experience in municipal government and regularly attended Health & Social Services Committee and regional council meetings.

When my husband and I retired and permanently moved to Wollaston Township in 2018, I wanted to become involved and contribute to our community.

Serving on the Wollaston Public Library Board and the Coe Hill Riders ATV Club executive has given me the opportunity to use my governance, leadership and management experience while working alongside dedicated volunteers.

I also enjoy volunteering with the local food bank, where my background in social services has given me a better understanding of the crucial role community organizations play in supporting individuals and families. I have met many wonderful people and gained an even greater appreciation for the volunteers and organizations that make Wollaston a strong community.

I follow municipal and provincial issues closely and regularly attend Township Council meetings.

My experience, combined with my community involvement, made me realize that I am ready to contribute in a new way. I decided to run for council because I want to serve our community, listen to residents and help plan Wollaston’s future.

2. What do you see as the biggest issues facing the municipality?

Wollaston is a small rural community with a limited tax base, so one of our biggest challenges is setting clear priorities and making responsible financial decisions.

The township currently does not have a Strategic Plan. I believe council should involve the community in developing one that establishes priorities for council and staff, aligns with our Asset Management Plan, and guides how our finances are spent.

Economic development is another priority. We need a plan to promote our community, support existing businesses, attract new investment and residents, and strengthen tourism. Hastings County has economic development resources that can help us explore these opportunities.

Council has indicated that it is considering transferring Nellie Lunn Park to Kawartha Land Trust for its long-term management. At the same time, there are ongoing legal matters involving the park.

Residents are interested in the township’s current financial investment in Nellie Lunn Park, including legal and other related costs to date. I believe council and the community should be provided with as much information as possible to make informed decisions and work towards a satisfactory resolution for all parties.

Communication and transparency are also important. Residents are telling me they want more information about what council is doing, why decisions are being made, and how those decisions may affect them. Building, planning and bylaw processes should be reviewed to ensure they are clear, consistent and efficient.

Finally, we need stronger collaboration among the township, residents, businesses, community organizations and service providers to build a stronger, welcoming community.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

My work experience and knowledge of the legislation governing municipalities have given me a strong understanding of how local government works, the specific roles of council and staff, and how municipal decisions affect residents.

I understand the importance of responsible financial management, accountability, good governance and long-term planning. I also know that a strong community depends on its residents, volunteers, businesses and organizations all working together to be collaborative and effective.

As a councillor, I would bring an experienced, practical and community-focused approach to the council table. I will ask questions, carefully consider the information before council, listen to residents, and make decisions based on what I believe is in the best interests of the community as a whole.

I will work to improve communication and transparency, manage taxpayers’ dollars responsibly, support local businesses and community organizations, and advocate for essential infrastructure and safe, welcoming recreational opportunities.

Most importantly, I believe Wollaston needs a clear plan for its future. I am prepared to work collaboratively with council, staff and residents to establish priorities and achieve measurable results for our community.

4. How can people get a hold of you or find you online to learn more about your campaign?

Email: VoteRoxanneLambert@gmail.com

Phone: 613-909-6625

Jeanne Gibson — Running for Councillor

What made you want to run for municipal office?

Many Township of Wollaston residents have told me they want change. The friendships I have built and the encouragement I have received from the community inspired me to run for council and represent all residents.

What do you see as the biggest issues facing the municipality?

In my view, the Township of Wollaston is facing three major issues:

1) A divided community, caused in part by rumours, limited information, and misinformation shared with residents.

A) To help address this, I would identify where misinformation is coming from and give residents clear opportunities to ask questions, raise concerns, and receive accurate information.

2) A lack of transparency with residents.

A) To improve transparency from council and staff, I would introduce a motion to:

i) Provide a one-page summary after each council meeting.

ii) Post meeting minutes on the website promptly after each meeting.

iii) Post the agenda for every council meeting at least five days in advance so residents have time to plan to attend.

iv) Hold town hall meetings twice a year.

v) Respond to resident inquiries promptly.

3) Insufficient focus on economic development.

A) If elected, I would encourage council to work with business owners and the broader community to develop targeted programs, policies, and infrastructure that support a viable economic development strategy. Hastings County can also provide resources and guidance.

What makes you best suited for the role?

I have more than 30 years of experience in accounting and finance, including 15 years as a controller in the manufacturing sector.

As a fifth-level CGA, I learned that strong financial analysis requires more than reviewing numbers. To understand costs properly, I spent time on the plant floor learning how raw materials are transformed into finished products.

I believe this same hands-on approach applies to serving as a councillor. To better understand Wollaston, I have travelled across the township, met with residents, and listened to their expectations for council. These conversations have given me a deeper understanding of the people and character of this community, including its farmers, loggers, hunters, retailers, seasonal campers, cottagers, and residents. With this knowledge and my experience, I believe I am well suited to serve as a councillor.

How can people get a hold of you or find you online to learn more about your campaign?

• Phone: (903) 282-5999

• Email: votejeannegibson@gmail.com

• Facebook: Jeanne Gibson candidate for council Wollaston Township

Larry Legault — Running for Councillor

1. What made you want to run for municipal office?

The reason I am running for councillor for Wollaston Township is to serve the community and to make it a better place for everyone.

I have been in the area for the past 35 years, full-time for 17. I am currently retired and have the time and energy to offer.

2. What do you see as the biggest issues facing the municipality and how would you go about solving them?

The biggest issue facing the council is trying to balance the ever-increasing costs that the township faces, mandated by the province for road maintenance and repairs, policing, county assessment and others, against the setting of tax rates to cover the demands.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

I have been on council for the past year and know the needs and concerns of the community. We have a beautiful area to call home that attracts both seasonal and full-time residents.

Our goal is to continue to encourage growth and development, while protecting the natural attractions of our forests and lakes.

4. How can people get a hold of you or find you online to learn more about your campaign?

Voters can contact me at larlyn09@gmail.com with any concerns or questions.

Wendy Mortimer — Running for Councillor

1. What made you want to run for municipal office?

I have always liked to help out when there is a job to be done. Generally, if there is a need for someone to take something on, and no one else wants to do it, I’ll say yes.

As an undergraduate at Queen’s, I volunteered for my Residence Council. As a graduate student at Waterloo, I chaired the GSA Board of Directors (and had to learn Robert’s Rules of Order). I chaired the City of Kawartha Lakes Environment Committee (2013-2014).

In retirement, I was on our Toronto Condo Board for a term. I ran for Wollaston Council (unsuc-cessfully) in 2018 and then volunteered on the Environment Committee, Communications Commit-tee and the Public Works Committee.

I’ve been a member of the Wollaston Library Board and then the Friends of Wollaston Library. I ran for Wollaston Council in 2022 (successfully, this time) and have been back on the library board for most of that term.

I have an appreciation for the work involved in finding and implementing solutions. Instead of simply blaming “the government” for our problems, I like to see people step up and take responsi-bility for their communities.

2. What do you see as the biggest issues facing the municipality and how would you go about solving them?

We do not have enough money to both meet our legal obligations as a township and also improve the quality of life of Wollaston residents.

Our financial obligations include large current and future expenditures such as the fire hall loan, asset management shortfalls, and the rising cost of diesel fuel. The amount of money coming in must be at least equal to the money going out.

We can increase taxes (not popular with current residents) or cut services like the library (also not popular with residents), or we can work to increase the tax base.

We need to seriously explore our options to increase our assessment values. That means, among other strategies, developing our public lands to their “highest” use, such that we are not just look-ing at the sale price, but also the future tax revenue from the proposed development.

Prime commercial-zoned land in our hamlet, for example, should be sold for commercial develop-ment, which is taxed at about twice the residential rate.

When I was operating the grocery store, I came to understand many of the barriers, large and small, to sustaining a viable economic zone in an area of low population with a seasonal boost.

Clearly, based on the large number of closed businesses and empty storefronts, the current ap-proach to economic development isn’t working. If council wants to ensure that Wollaston Town-ship is going to have an independent future, it must include financial stability and a vibrant main street in Coe Hill.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

I am here for the long winter months, the three phases of bug season, the sunny, busy season and the glorious time when the leaves change but it is still work-outside-in-a-t-shirt warm. I tolerate the crappy phone service, plan for the frequent power failures, memorize the ever-changing opening days and hours for everything.

I operated a large, main street business (the Coe Hill Grocery Store) for three-plus years. Although I didn’t plan to do this, the challenges of the COVID time and the loss due to the fire at the Apsley store made it necessary.

I wanted to have a grocery store in Coe Hill; I just didn’t want to run it. Overall, it was a great ex-perience, and I understand better how municipalities can help businesses.

I’ve been on council for the last four challenging years, and I know how difficult it can be to see your issues go sideways, with solutions ignored, and opportunities missed. Council decisions of-ten make half the people happy but the other half disappointed or even angry. They make personal attacks, threaten to “take you to the train station,” and try to organize boycotts of your business. I have a thick skin and a sense of humour.

4. How can people get a hold of you or find you online to learn more about your campaign?

Wendymortimer2013@gmail.com

647-861-5227

Teresa Van Dyk — Running for Councillor

1. What made you want to run for municipal office?

After a rewarding 33-year career in the insurance industry, I retired in 2022. My career focused on office administration, budgeting and facilities management for the Ontario region. It taught me the importance of organization, financial responsibility, accountability, problem-solving and working respectfully with others.

When I retired, I decided to take a break and focus on the things that matter most to me — my husband, children, grandchildren and my gardens. It was a wonderful chapter of my life, and I am grateful for the time that I got to slow down and enjoy it.

After several years of retirement, I now feel ready to contribute again. I believe the skills and experience I developed throughout my career can be valuable to our municipality, and serving as councillor is a meaningful way to use them.

I am motivated by our community’s potential and want to help bring people together, strengthen local businesses and services, improve our public spaces and ensure we remain fiscally responsible.

I believe a strong community is built by people with different perspectives listening, working together and finding common ground. I want to help build a community where residents feel informed, respected, included and proud to call it home.

2. What do you see as the biggest issues facing the municipality and how would you go about solving them?

I believe our municipality faces several important challenges, but one of the most important is finding ways to bring our community closer together. We need to create opportunities for people to come together, listen to one another and focus on the things we share. I want to see us move forward as one community, where council and residents work together, listen to each other and share in building a stronger future.

Economic revitalization is another important issue. We once had many more businesses that provided essential services to our community. We need to explore practical ways to attract and support businesses while also supporting organizations that serve our residents, including our food bank and thrift shop.

Our public spaces, including the beach and pavilion, also have tremendous potential. Making them safe, welcoming, accessible and enjoyable can encourage community engagement and attract visitors.

Fiscal responsibility must remain a priority. We need a balanced budget that focuses on essential services, including road maintenance, fire safety and our library, while carefully considering every dollar spent. We also need to plan for the long-term maintenance of our infrastructure so that we are not simply addressing problems as they arise, but planning responsibly for the future.

Finally, transparency is essential to building trust. Residents deserve to know not only what decisions are being made, but why. Clear communication, meaningful consultation and reporting back to residents can help ensure that our community feels informed and involved.

My goal is to help build a stronger, more connected community where residents, council, businesses and organizations work together toward a common future.

3. What makes you best suited for the role?

I believe that I am well suited for this role because I bring 33 years of professional experience, with a strong background in administration, budgeting, facilities management and problem-solving. I understand the importance of financial responsibility, organization, accountability and getting things done.

My years of work and life experience have taught me how important it is to listen, communicate respectfully, consider different perspectives and work toward practical solutions. I am now ready to bring those skills back to work for the community I call home.

I understand that municipal government requires collaboration and thoughtful decision-making. We will not always agree, and I believe that is okay. Different perspectives can make our community stronger when we take the time to listen and find common ground.

Most importantly, I would approach this role with professionalism, respect, honesty and transparency. I will ask questions, listen, learn and make decisions based on what I believe is best for our entire community. I want residents to feel heard, informed and included in the decisions that affect them.

I am not running because I have all the answers. I am running because I care about our community, I am willing to work hard, and I believe my experience and approach can make a positive contribution to our municipality.

4. How can people get a hold of you or find you online to learn more about your campaign?

Email address: teresaannvandyk@gmail.com

Cell number: 613-909-3343