Centre Wellington residents had a chance to learn what is important to local, county and school board candidates.
Candidates were out to debate the issues at the Elora Royal Canadian Legion branch on Sept. 13 in a meeting hosted by the Centre Wellington Chamber of Commerce
Moderator Janet Harrop explained the chamber was pleased to host the meeting and stress the organization was non-partisan and the boiard and staff do not publicly support any candidate at any election level.
However, she said the chamber does support full engagement in the political process and encourages residents to get out and vote on Oct. 22.
All candidates were give two minutes for opening statements. Questions were submitted in writing and could only be submitted to two candidates – each of whom would be given one minute to respond.
“We want to try to get to as many questions as possible … it will force answers to be somewhat succinct.”
The order of speakers was chosen prior to candidates taking their seats.
In addition, this meeting focused on the municipal ward candidates serving Elora, while a later meeting on Oct. 18 focused on municipal ward candidates serving the Fergus area.
MAYORAL CANDIDATES
Fred Morris
Morris said “I am running for mayor of the Township of Centre Wellington.”
He thanked those coming out for their interest in local politics.
Morris descibed himself as a 30-year-resident of Centre Wellington, and a business owner in downtown Fergus.
“My family and I proudly call Centre Wellington our home.”
Morris currently serves as the ward 4 representative on Centre Wellington council.
“For the past 15 years, I have had the priveledge of representing the people who live there.”
Morris saw four prominent themes in the upcoming election as a result of knocking on doors and talking to people.
The first theme is growth.
Morris said he’s been asked ‘are we growing too fast?’ and ‘can we handle the growth as quickly as it is coming?’
“We are going to have to deal with that in the next council, because we are growing rapidly but we don’t have the things in place to deal with that rapid growth.”
He considered that as job one for the next term of council.
Morris saw the second theme is fiscal management.
“People are not sure a four per cent annual tax increase is sustainable going forward.”
He said that in the past four years residents have seen a 16 per cent increase in taxes and 30 per cent increase in operational spending.
“People are not sure it is feasible to keep that spen ding going.”
The next theme for Morris is economic development.
“We are building bedrooms all the time and people are starting to say we are becoming a bedroom community.”
Morris said “we have to start creating jobs in Centre Wellington … but there is a right way and a wrong way to do that … and I will do it the right way.”
The final theme Morris spoke of was community engagement.
Morris said people want to know their voices can be heard at council.
“They want to be assured when they come to speak to their leadership that their voices will be respected and not be regarded as squeaky wheels.
“I will guarantee that I will not treat anyone like that.”
Morris pledged “I will do what this community needs. I will be a community mayor not a corporate mayor.”
Kelly Linton
Linton said it was great to see the huge crowd out to see democracy in action.
“I ran in 2014 because I am passionate about this town. My family and I love this area and have lived here a long time.”
Linton said he was also passionate about citizen-centred government.
“Since completing my Masters Degree in Public Policy and Administration … so, so many years ago … I spent over 20 years helping other government organizations across Canada become more effective, efficent and customer focussed.”
“I have first hand knowledge of what works and what doesn’t work in municipal government.”
Linton also said he is also aware that “citizens everywhere, including here, are tired of politicians and the games they play.”
He said that “election after election, they play to our fears and tell us what we want to hear, then do whatever they want after the election.”
“As your mayor, I try to do things differently. I’ve actually done what I’ve promised to do.”
Linton he led a council which created a community-driven roadmap for action and has delivered results.
He said “one of the most daunting challenges was dealing with deteriorating infrastructure specifically our crumbling bridges.”
Linton said in the previous two terms of council with (Morris) as finance chair, only five bridges were rebuilt in eight years. We were losing this battle.”
Even so, taxes continued to increase 3.4% every year.
“That changed in 2014 with this council, without the support of certain members of council.”
Linton said at that time a 2% dedicated capital levy was initiated.
“We are now on track to build 21 bridges in eight years … to make up for a decade of inaction.”
Linton promised to continue rebuilding CW’s backbone infrastructure.
He remained passionate about open and honest government.
“In 2014, I promised to communicate with you and had 14 interactive town hall sessions.”
“If elected, I will continue to communicate with you at every opportunity.”
Linton intends to work with the new council to get good things done for residents.
“My record speaks for itself.”
WARD 1 CANDIDATES
Don Fisher
Fisher is seeking re-election for ward 1.
“Our community is undergoing a profound transformation. Our downtowns are being revitalized by a combination of significant private investment and large scale infrastructure projects.”
He said development and redevelopment is happening throughout the township.
“home and business owners are renovating and improving their properties at an impressive rate.”
Council has begun to address our long outstanding infrastructure deficit with clear and adequately funded program of rural bridge replacement and urban road resurfacing.
In the midst of this new construction, Fisher said council has acted decisively to protect our iconic buildings and precious heritage and natural heritage throught the designation of a number of significant heritage properties and assets.
“The township is evolving as an organzation as well. Council has increased the skills and capabilities of administration in the areas of bylaw enforcement, financial analysis, project management and urban forestry.”
Fisher added “most important, the organization is striving to become much more open and transparent “and committed to sharing as much information as possible residents on traditional and social media platforms.”
“We actively invite public scrutiney of our plans, finances and oeprations
We are always seeking public feedback on everything we do.
We are providing significant funding to assist owners of older buildings in our downtowns in renovating and rehaibilitating their properties.
“This not only increases the visual appeal but enhance3s the long term viability and functionality of our built heritage in these areas.
“This is a record of real achievement and I am proud of having consistently advocated and supported these policies and measures.”
Ian MacRae
MacRae focussed on four key areas.
The first, he said, is designing Centre Wellington to be a robust, sustainable and resiliant community for people of all ages and incomes.
“This will involve updating the official plan and guidelines to current provincial planning requirements incorporating new urban design criteria such as active transportation and mixed use development and promoting greater citizen involvement in the design of our community.”
He said there is a need to increase the affordable and rental housing supply for residents working in agriculture, construction and tourism.
Investing in our downtown cores to ensure their long term viability as places to live and to work.
He said there is also a need to resolve Centre Wellington’s parking and traffic challenges.
He added there is also a need to increase the diversity of local jobs to offset downturns in the economy.
Secondly, MacRae said the township needs to maintain affordable tax levels.
“This means improving how we manage projects to avoid cost overruns, ensuring that growth pays for growth to reduce the taxpayers cost.
MacRae also wants to see an evaluation in the use of consultants and looking at the capabilities of staff to do the work instead.
He also advocated protecting water and other natural resources for future generations.
MacRae said this requires ending complacency about the township’s water supply.
“We have reasons to be concerned in Elora, Fergus and Salem without the impact of an international water bottler.”
He advocated preserving farmland and greenspaces as natural regeneration spaces for water supplies.
MacRae also wants to speed up the replacement of the township’s rural bridges.
He said the township needs to recognize the economic burden inconvenience to local farmers as a result of the number of closed bridges.
MacRae said the northwest corner of ward 1 has five closed bridges with the possibility of an immenent sixth.
“We need to work with our farmers to prioritize which bridges to fix first.”
WARD 2 CANDIDATES
Kirk McElwain
McElwain said that since moving to Centre Wellington 20 years ago, he has been active in the community as a volunteer in a number of not-for-profit organizations.
McElwain now chairs Sensational Elora and Monster Month.
He quipped that he was considering adding the election to Monster Month as it is the scariest even in October.
McElwain said his priorities fo the upcoming term based on resident feedback includes spending, managing growth and water.
Because of the dedicated levy, he estimated Centre Wellington’s taxes will rise 25% over eight years.
“By dedicating the 2% capital levy for one item, we are not addressing other high priority items in our community.”
McElwain said spending in 2018 increased over 10% – which includes over $700,000 spent on consultants.
“Apparently to get things done, we need to spend money on things we cannot afford.”
He said the township’s strategic plan prioritizes maintaining the small town feel of the community.
“Given the suburban sprawl in this community, I do not think we have met that objective.”
He stated “smart growth also includes job creation, which seemed to be on the backburner this term of council.
He said a consultant was hired to investigate economic development.
“I’m hoping the recommendation includes diversification of our investment strategy
“As for water, council must stop using ‘wait for the science’.”
He stressed “we have the science.”
He pointed to groundwater management studies by the MOE and science provided by Save Our Water.
McElwain also pointed to other studies with a planning horizon of 2041.
“Growth and climate change will continue after 2041 … so what exactly are we waiting for.”
Kim Jefferson
Jefferson said she was raised on a farm just outside of Fegus and now resides on McNab Street in Elora.
“I am a business owner and a landlord since 2001 in downtown Fergus.”
She currently volunteers as chair of the Fergus BIA doing events and beautification efforts.
Jefferson is also the event organizer for Twilight at Templin Gardens, a free music event in downtown Fergus.
“My recent volunteer work has sparked an interest in municipal politics and I really want to be involved.”
With her family, she has spent a lot of time whitewater paddling and being out in nature.
“I want you to understand the Centre Wellington water supply issue, the health of the Grand River, river conservation and the environment are important to me.”
“We need to be conscious of the environmental impacts of policy making and we need a sustainable water supply.”
“I also understand development and growth is heading our way and the township is in the process of planning to the year 2041.”
Regarding provincial policies and provincial density requirements, Jefferson understands Centre Wellington needs affordable housing for its young people and for seniors in their retirment years.
She also spoke of urban boundaries and the provincial growth plans which the municipality needs to follow.
“At council we need to work within the provincial framework to maintain our charm and heritage along with smart growth and development.”
Jefferson has reached out to active community members and come to believe Centre Wellington would benefit from a youth council so they can have a safe place where they feel they matter.
COUNTY WARD 4
Wayne Baker
Initially thanking the CW Chambrer of Commerce, Baker said that as past president of the Arthur and District Chamber of Commerce, he understood the work involved holding such an event.
Baker said “with your permission, I’d like to be your councillor for ward 4 of Wellington County.”
He and his wife relocated to a property just this side of Arthur in 2005.
Baker quipped “The winter was particularly cold and the marriage testy … especially when the weather was bad.”
“She’s a city girl who came kicking and screaming into the country … and now she won’t leave.”
Baker said he scratch-started the business he continues to operate.
“I am actively involved in the Arthur community, which involves volunteering at the local youth drop-in centre.”
“Why do I want to be the councillor for ward 4? That’s a tough question to answer in two minutes,” Baker said.
“If elected to council, my attitude will be focussed towards what will make the lives of the residents of Wellington County better.
Allan Hons
Hons was born and raised in Fergus and studied political science and economics at the University of Toronto.
Hons now works at the Ecclestone Financial Group in Fergus.
“I have a deep respect for what this community has given me growing up, and my family now, and I’ve done my best to give back over the years.”
Hons has volunteered with Habitat for Humanity building homes and salvaging materials from the old Fergus Motel.
He said he’s given blood, coached baseball, and chair of the Melville United Church council which is working to revitalize the downtown Fergus landmark.
“I am running for council to help create a healthy, vibrant community where our children can thrive and raise a family of their own.”
He also advocated the county get involved in local town hall sessions, “to explain about the decisions which affect you.”
Penny Renken
Renken said “I live, work and play in Wellington County. My husband and I have been sheep farmers and worked off the farm.”
Renken was also the Freedom of Information officer for a local police service for 22 years.
Renken is also a member of the cultural round table which promiotes difersified culture.
She said this will encourage new business and economic growth
Renken is president of the auxiliary to Louise Marshall Hospital, a leader in vacation Bible school and a leader for the Girl Guides of Canada.
“I have been a leader for Girl Guides, Brownies and Pathfinders.”
She said that is why is concerned about the homeless and those suffering mental illness within Wellington County.
Renken wanted to work with experts to help those individuals.
“History is not only interesting, it is important to preserve our heritage for future generations.”
Renken belongs to both the Mount Forest Museum and Archives and the Arthur Historical Society.
She added she is also a member of the committee restoring the blacksmith shop in Kenilwortb.
“It is unique to Wellington County. Once restored, it will educate children and adults and show a way of life that was, and should not be forgotten.”
Renken also had concern for seniors, struggling to make ends meet – seniors who need affordable housing and support.
She said others have disability issues and require certain services.
Renken said all residents need to be provided with the neccessities of life.
“These are some of this issues I am working on.”
Jake Bouwman
Bouwman said he is a lifelong resident of Wellington County.
He and his wife have operated a dairyand cash crop farm for the past 35 years in the Fergus area.
Bouwman said he is active in local church, school and business committees, recently having completed a number of terms on the county dairy farmers’ committee.
“I am committed to fiscal responsibility and sound planning.”
Bouwman said he is also committed to being a good steward of the township’s many resources “so there are sufficient resources for the future generations – whether it be land, water or air, we must be active in providing a sustainable future.”
“Wellington County has a dynamic growing population with a rich history which we must build upon for a strong future.
Our various communities must be encouraged to continue to provide the services we are used to.
From the earliest settlers to current day, many people hjave come to the area to call it home, he said.
“I am thankful for the opportunities we have to live and grow in this county.
His desire to be on county council is to encourage growth and community.
Ross Chaulk
Chaulk said “I put my name forward because I believe I have the experience and skills required to make a difference.”
He said voters are losing faith in their elected representatives.
Chaulk said property taxes are increasing each year and politicians are increasing their own salaries.
“The system needs to be reviewed to find efficiencies and cost savings.”
He asked voters to let him put his skills to work.
Chaulk is president of Ross Chaulk Accounting Services, a successful business in Wellington North.
Chaulk served on Arthur Township council from 1994 to 1998, and after amalgamation in he served as a councillor in Wellington North from 2003 to 2010.
He has served as finance chairman, recreation, board of works, building and propertyeconomic development and fire protection committees.
Chaulk has also completed the municipal accounting finance program.
“I will use the skills and knowlegde I have acquired to be a team player on Wellington County council.”
Chaulk said his priorities include fiscal responsibility, open and transparent government, infrastrucutre renewal, resources stewardship.
He contended the county should be run like a business and he believed his accounting and business backgrou nd would be a critical part of the budget process and financial review as the county moves forward.
“For business sense, common sense, and experience – vote Ross Chaulk.”
Stephen O’Neill
O’Neill was unavailable for the night’s meeting.
COUNTY WARD 5
Mary Lloyd
Though acclaimed as county ward 5 representative, Lloyd expressed her views.
“I have been active in this community a very long time from the BIA to hospital fundraising, festivals, my church … and downright getting busy with the community.”
“I’ve been blessed to spend seven-and-a-half years as a local town councillor, and when it came as an oppoortunity to serve on Wellington County council, I stepped forward.”
Lloyd said she “is quite excited to be able to bring a woman’s perspective. Maybe that sounds a little gender specific, but I might as well go there. I represent 50% of the population. We need to be heard at county council. We need to be listening as to what is affecting our seniors who cannot find a home to live here.”
Lloyd is part of the county committee seeking to create a continuum of care.
COUNTY WARD 6
Shawn Watters
“I’m up here asking for your support again,” Watters said.
His journey in politics has been lengthy.
“I was on the very last Elora (village) council prior to amalgamation.”
Watters was also part of the amalgamation team which helped reshape municipalities within the county.
For the past eight years, Watters served on Wellington County council.
“But I am also very involved in the community.”
He spoke of his involvement in RiverFest Elora which has grown “that little project” from about 500 people to this past August with an attendance of 16,000.
“What it really speaks to is community. I am a community minded guy.”
Watters said his political history allows him to understand continuity – and how to grow.
“We are facing tremendous questions on growth, and you need people like myself who understand the history in order to do the right thing.”
Watters moved to this community a long time ago and has seen a lot of changes.
“What we need is to have more of you people to make this a great community.”
He is open to people speaking to him about what is going on.
Watters had heard comments the county is not a well run machine.
He countered “It is a great machine … but it needs your input.”
Diane Ballantyne
Ballantyne began by recognizing the Six Nations of the Grand River “on whose ancestral grounds we live work and play.”
Ballantyne said “I am running for Wellington County council because I believe Centre Wellington deserves an effective advocate.”
She said 57% of the taxes paid by residents goes to the county level of government.
“I believe that is a great deal of money, and I think that warrants far better value.”
As the largest township (by population) Ballantyne contends it is left holding the bag on infrastructure funds.
She said the county takes in five times the amount of revenue but only has twice the amount of infrastructure to maintain.
She said Centre Wellington lacks sufficient child care spaces and affordable spaces.
Ballantyne said insiders at Wellington County speak of ‘the Wellington County standard’ … which means expensive.
She used $6M cost of the Hillsburgh library branch as an example.
“Let me be perfectly clear. I have nothing against libraries. I am a teacher and I love libraries and fully understand the important role they play in our communities.”
“What I am against is overspending just because you can.”
Ballantyne said in the county they can overspend because they have over $200M sitting in reserves.
“The county is an institution and institutions protect themselves. We need leadership at the county level to go beyond business as usual. We need to better represent thje ratepayers and be a voice for the community’s needs.”
She said “we need someone who is not afraid to ask courageous questions and take action.”
“I’ve been taking action in the community against injustice for decades.”
“To me this imbalance between the county and Centre Wellington is a different yet equally important type of injustice.”
Ballantyne said Centre Wellington deserves more of the county tax pie.
She asked voters to select new leadership for a changing community.
UPPER GRAND DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
In Centre Wellington Barbara Lustgarten-Evoy and Jesse Wooton stood before the audience seeking represenation at the English public school board.
English separater school board candidate Andrew Finoro was acclaimed and the both the French public and separate school board candidates were no-shows.
Jessie Wootton
Wootton said he was putting his hat into the ring for the Upper Grand District School Board for the trustee position.
He said voters need to put some thought into who they are voting for in this election.
“I am a tech person and work in the tech industry with a successful startup in Kitchener-Waterloo.”
“That is the perspective I want to bring to school board.”
He said the future of the job market is complex.
Wootton said one of the positions he is currently hiring for is a job no one has really ever done.
He said students of today need to be armed with the skills to move forward.
“The school board is a board of directors and we need to have different skills and views.”
Wootton firmly believed science and mathematics are extremely important moving forward.
But he said there needs to be a balance approach with subjects such as art, history and languages are truly important things as well.
“I don’t want to get into the position of overcorrecting when one thing is lacking.”
He stressed “an informed vote is important to the whole democratic process.”
Barbara Lustgarten-Evoy
Lustgarten-Evoy told members of the audience she was glad to be running for re-election.
“I so cherish the role of trustee, representing you for the past four years – representing your families and you children.”
Lustgarten-Evoys added “your children are number one to me – that is where the story begins and ends.”
During the past election, Lustgarten-Evoy challenged local schools to become green.
Since the, she said every school in Centre Wellington is eco-certified.
“We’re doing some amazing things and I’ve been a part of that.”
She is proud to be a member of the board’s special education team.
“I ask the hard questions when it comes to fiscal responsibility. My job is to represent the entire county and I do it with great pride.”
She said the school board has a fiscally balanced budget, addressed issues from sex education to French immersion.
“I am your Centre Wellington public school board trustee and am asking for your vote so I can continue with the passion which I’ve proven.”
A second municipal candidates meeting hosted by the Centre Wellington Chamber of Commerce was held Sept. 18 at the Fergus Legion.
