As published in The Erin Advocate
Erin Town Council members bid each other some polite farewells at the end of their tumultuous four-year term of office.
Councillor Barb Tocher presented Mayor Lou Maieron with the council gavel as a souvenir of his service. It had been donated to Erin Township by Henry Wheeler in 1973.
“I’ve had the opportunity to serve this municipality as a councillor, mayor, county councillor and warden over the last 20 years,” said Tocher, who presented the others with stuffed Erin beany-baby bears. “It’s been an honour, it’s been a privilege. I will miss it, there’s no doubt. There isn’t a more interesting line of work. I’m looking forward to relaxing.”
Councillor John Brennan is the only member who is continuing in public office.
“The past four years haven’t been the most joyous for any of us, but despite that we have accomplished a lot, and I’m sure that we were acting from the best of intentions,” he said. “My thanks to all of you. It’s been not always enjoyable, but it’s been very real and also gratifying to work with you and overcome the obstacles that we did.”
Councillor Deb Callaghan, the only member not standing for office in the recent election, said her experience on council was not as enjoyable for her as for others.
“I would like to thank staff for their hard work, dedication and professionalism. I also want to thank my fellow council members – it has been a pleasure working with you this term. It has certainly been a challenging year – words like frustrating, trying, exasperating and discouraging definitely come to mind.”
She advised the new council to “look head, not behind; learn from the past, but do not focus on trying to place blame; you need to be cohesive and treat each other with respect; the mayor frequently said we need to paddle the canoe in the same direction – unfortunately we were not even in the same canoe.”
Councillor Josie Wintersinger was not at the meeting.
Mayor Maieron said it had been an “arduous” term but felt they had accomplished the majority of goals in his platform and that the new council has “a cleaner ship to sail”. He said he was frustrated when people had complaints about the Town, but were afraid to make them public.
“You elected a mayor for change, but did not bring a council with that much ambition for change. There are some great staff that work here, but there was also a sense of entitle-ism that needs to change.
“I sleep well at nights, because I did what I thought needed to be done. The incoming county councillor wishes to build bridges and I wish him the best of luck. But you’re going to find it difficult when the county takes a big portion of our taxes.
“I’ve kept my promise to the taxpayers and I’m proud of the job I did. It was a pleasure serving you.”
Showing posts with label Election 2014. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Election 2014. Show all posts
December 03, 2014
October 29, 2014
October 27, 2014
Allan Alls will be Erin's new mayor
As published in The Erin Advocate
Here are the official election results for the Town of Erin, as released by Clerk Dina Lundy. A total of 4,025 ballots were cast. With 8,703 registered voters, the turnout was 46.25%.
Mayor
2,403 - Allan Alls
1,120 - Rod Finnie
464 - David Lyver
County Councillor (1)
2,025 - Pierre Brianceau
1,376 - Barb Tocher
503 - Lou Maieron
Town Councillors (top 4)
1,990 - John Brennan
1,936 - Jeff Duncan
1,735 - Matt Sammut
1,429 - Rob Smith
1,396 - Jamie Cheyne
1,369 - Chris Naraysingh
1,198 - Evelyn McLean
1,009 - Josie Wintersinger
742 - Shawn Wilson
679 - Craig Porterfield
549 - George Silva
Trustee results from the Guelph-Eramosa Township website
Public School Trustee for Erin, Guelph-Eramosa and East Garafraxa
4,437 - Kathryn Cooper
1,516 - Brandon Moyer
Catholic School Trustee for Erin, Guelph-Eramosa and Puslinch
704 - Cassandra Chornoboy
432 - Shaun Redmond
Here are the official election results for the Town of Erin, as released by Clerk Dina Lundy. A total of 4,025 ballots were cast. With 8,703 registered voters, the turnout was 46.25%.
Mayor
2,403 - Allan Alls
1,120 - Rod Finnie
464 - David Lyver
County Councillor (1)
2,025 - Pierre Brianceau
1,376 - Barb Tocher
503 - Lou Maieron
Town Councillors (top 4)
1,990 - John Brennan
1,936 - Jeff Duncan
1,735 - Matt Sammut
1,429 - Rob Smith
1,396 - Jamie Cheyne
1,369 - Chris Naraysingh
1,198 - Evelyn McLean
1,009 - Josie Wintersinger
742 - Shawn Wilson
679 - Craig Porterfield
549 - George Silva
Trustee results from the Guelph-Eramosa Township website
Public School Trustee for Erin, Guelph-Eramosa and East Garafraxa
4,437 - Kathryn Cooper
1,516 - Brandon Moyer
Catholic School Trustee for Erin, Guelph-Eramosa and Puslinch
704 - Cassandra Chornoboy
432 - Shaun Redmond
October 15, 2014
Mayoral candidates seek wastewater solutions
As published in The Erin Advocate
Erin’s mayoral candidates pitched lots of ideas for improving the local economy, increasing efficiency, restoring civility and dealing with wastewater at the All Candidates’ Meeting held on October 8 by Transition Erin.
There was unanimous support for a sewer system (of some sort) and for efforts to attract and retain business in the Town. The first question was about their vision for the residential sector.
David Lyver said he wants to see assisted-living housing for seniors, which would help free up other homes. He is concerned that high taxes and lack of housing are driving them out.
Rod Finnie said it is possible to build “very beautiful” compact housing for seniors and young people. He wants development to be “community-friendly”, including walking and biking trails, and supports credits to developers for “green” features in their projects.
Allan Alls said sufficient sewage capacity should be reserved for existing homeowners, but that once the remaining capacity is used up, further development could take place using private septic tank wastewater treatment.
Regarding the business sector, Finnie said more jobs and tourism are needed. “We’ve got to be more positive and find ways to make it happen,” he said.
Alls said a sewage system is essential to any significant business development, while Lyver wants to reduce development charges compared to neighbouring municipalities.
For improved council operations, Alls would like to see a Mayor’s Advisory Committee where citizens could provide input. Finnie would stress the need for respect and compromise, and would like to hold council meetings in different parts of the Town. Both like the idea of an open question period for the public at the start of each meeting.
For greater efficiency, Lyver would try to merge duplicate services. Finnie said the Operational Review would be critical, but that he does not believe there is a lot of waste. Alls said he would take a hard look at staffing after the Review, but that it is “probably OK”.
Finnie said bringing a sewer system to Erin is the reason he wants to return to the position of mayor, which he held from 2000 to 2010. “We are not going to survive as a community without it,” he said. He favours working with Infrastructure Ontario and the private sector so that taxpayers will not be hit with high construction costs
Alls said the Environmental Assessment will help determine the best technology, and that it’s not going to cost Erin residents $60 million. Without senior government help, the project can’t go forward, he said.
Lyver said we might need two small systems, plus homes on septics. He said Peel Region might be willing to provide a loan to Erin, since they have a vested interest in the quality of water in the Credit River.
All three agreed in principle with incentives for developers to build more energy-efficient homes, and Lyver suggested extending that to homeowners, with building permit credits for additions and renovations.
To attract more businesses, Alls supports reduction of taxes and development charges. Lyver said this should be based on benefits to the community, such as jobs, and that the Town could set up an area of serviced land for industry. Finnie said instead of cutting taxes and charges, the Town could set up the infrastructure that businesses need in order to succeed – such as ultra high speed internet.
Alls and Lyver agreed with a suggestion to ban bottled water at the Town. Finnie said he doesn’t believe in banning things, but that perhaps Nestlé could pay for product placement – $10,000 for every bottle on the council table.
Regarding the impact of climate change, Alls and Lyver both promoted improved access to GO buses and trains. Finnie said he would promote the county’s Active Transportation Plan (including more paved shoulders on roads), and he would seek partners to help with the cost of improving dams – the most vulnerable part of Erin’s infrastructure.
All three agreed that better communication would improve the advisory committee system, and that an energy conservation committee would be a good idea. Finnie said committees should be given more specific tasks, and Alls called for investigation of recreation levels to learn what more is needed.
Erin’s mayoral candidates pitched lots of ideas for improving the local economy, increasing efficiency, restoring civility and dealing with wastewater at the All Candidates’ Meeting held on October 8 by Transition Erin.
There was unanimous support for a sewer system (of some sort) and for efforts to attract and retain business in the Town. The first question was about their vision for the residential sector.
David Lyver said he wants to see assisted-living housing for seniors, which would help free up other homes. He is concerned that high taxes and lack of housing are driving them out.
Rod Finnie said it is possible to build “very beautiful” compact housing for seniors and young people. He wants development to be “community-friendly”, including walking and biking trails, and supports credits to developers for “green” features in their projects.
Allan Alls said sufficient sewage capacity should be reserved for existing homeowners, but that once the remaining capacity is used up, further development could take place using private septic tank wastewater treatment.
Regarding the business sector, Finnie said more jobs and tourism are needed. “We’ve got to be more positive and find ways to make it happen,” he said.
Alls said a sewage system is essential to any significant business development, while Lyver wants to reduce development charges compared to neighbouring municipalities.
For improved council operations, Alls would like to see a Mayor’s Advisory Committee where citizens could provide input. Finnie would stress the need for respect and compromise, and would like to hold council meetings in different parts of the Town. Both like the idea of an open question period for the public at the start of each meeting.
For greater efficiency, Lyver would try to merge duplicate services. Finnie said the Operational Review would be critical, but that he does not believe there is a lot of waste. Alls said he would take a hard look at staffing after the Review, but that it is “probably OK”.
Finnie said bringing a sewer system to Erin is the reason he wants to return to the position of mayor, which he held from 2000 to 2010. “We are not going to survive as a community without it,” he said. He favours working with Infrastructure Ontario and the private sector so that taxpayers will not be hit with high construction costs
Alls said the Environmental Assessment will help determine the best technology, and that it’s not going to cost Erin residents $60 million. Without senior government help, the project can’t go forward, he said.
Lyver said we might need two small systems, plus homes on septics. He said Peel Region might be willing to provide a loan to Erin, since they have a vested interest in the quality of water in the Credit River.
All three agreed in principle with incentives for developers to build more energy-efficient homes, and Lyver suggested extending that to homeowners, with building permit credits for additions and renovations.
To attract more businesses, Alls supports reduction of taxes and development charges. Lyver said this should be based on benefits to the community, such as jobs, and that the Town could set up an area of serviced land for industry. Finnie said instead of cutting taxes and charges, the Town could set up the infrastructure that businesses need in order to succeed – such as ultra high speed internet.
Alls and Lyver agreed with a suggestion to ban bottled water at the Town. Finnie said he doesn’t believe in banning things, but that perhaps Nestlé could pay for product placement – $10,000 for every bottle on the council table.
Regarding the impact of climate change, Alls and Lyver both promoted improved access to GO buses and trains. Finnie said he would promote the county’s Active Transportation Plan (including more paved shoulders on roads), and he would seek partners to help with the cost of improving dams – the most vulnerable part of Erin’s infrastructure.
All three agreed that better communication would improve the advisory committee system, and that an energy conservation committee would be a good idea. Finnie said committees should be given more specific tasks, and Alls called for investigation of recreation levels to learn what more is needed.
County candidates stress need for collaboration
As published in The Erin Advocate
Candidates for Wellington County Council agree that Erin needs to get its fair share of benefits from the senior municipal government, with each claiming to have the best skills and strategy to make that happen.
They explained their positions at the All Candidates’ Meeting held on October 8 by Transition Erin. Candidates gave one-minute answers to questions from moderator Jay Mowat in a randomly selected order. Written answers to selected questions (from all election candidates) are available at http://www.transitionerin.ca.
Former public school trustee Pierre Brianceau said the failure of current representatives to get along with other members of county council has resulted in Erin not getting its fair share. He said he has the experience in working with various governments and agencies to bring funding to the community.
“I can work with others and you will get your money back,” he said. He noted the current Code of Ethics complaints at the Town level, and said his competitors “have spent their time fighting instead of minding your interests.”
Barb Tocher, a current Town Councillor and former Mayor and County Warden, said that while Erin gets standard services from the county, she will always bargain for better service and to get Erin’s share of various initiatives. She said the current mayor has been the root cause of malfunction at Town Council, and that his failure to earn respect at County Council has been a disadvantage to Erin.
“It’s time to restore and enhance the collaborative partnership between the Town of Erin and the County of Wellington,” she said.
Mayor Lou Maieron, formerly a County Councillor and now running again for that position, said in response that Erin actually has a “good relationship” with the county. He said Erin has got a part-time ambulance, rural garbage pick-up and a commitment for a new Hillsburgh library in 2016.
He said he has “great relationships with some hard-working efficiency-based councillors” but not with some “back room” politicians. He continues to protest the province’s assessment-based tax system, which puts a heavier burden on Erin compared to some parts of the county.
“I’ve been fighting to get our fair share. The representation at the county is neither based on population nor assessment. If you look at the three southern municipalities, we’re the highest assessment and the highest population, but we don’t have the majority of votes.”
Brianceau stressed his commitment to protect the environment, strengthen delivery of existing health care services, promote economic development and enhance rural transportation. He also favours reform of the tax system, would look for an environmentally responsible way to get a waste transfer station in Erin and would produce a quarterly newsletter to inform people and encourage their participation.
Tocher would support “Green Development Charges”, providing developers with discounts based on their environmental initiatives. She supports a county plan to track climate change and reduce its impact on infrastructure, and suggests that the County pay for all road construction while the Town covers all maintenance. She would write monthly updates for the news media and employ on-line surveys to get more feedback from residents.
Maieron said as Chair of County Planning he has backed plans for resilience to climate change. He wants more Erin roads to become the county’s responsibility. He supports establishment of a Re-Use Centre in Erin and weekly rural garbage collection (instead of every two weeks). He will push again for an Operational Review to improve efficiency, and would like to see on-line video of county meetings and some meetings held in the evening.
All of the candidates support establishment of a Community Safety Zone (higher speeding fines) in front of Brisbane Public School.
Candidates for Wellington County Council agree that Erin needs to get its fair share of benefits from the senior municipal government, with each claiming to have the best skills and strategy to make that happen.
They explained their positions at the All Candidates’ Meeting held on October 8 by Transition Erin. Candidates gave one-minute answers to questions from moderator Jay Mowat in a randomly selected order. Written answers to selected questions (from all election candidates) are available at http://www.transitionerin.ca.
Former public school trustee Pierre Brianceau said the failure of current representatives to get along with other members of county council has resulted in Erin not getting its fair share. He said he has the experience in working with various governments and agencies to bring funding to the community.
“I can work with others and you will get your money back,” he said. He noted the current Code of Ethics complaints at the Town level, and said his competitors “have spent their time fighting instead of minding your interests.”
Barb Tocher, a current Town Councillor and former Mayor and County Warden, said that while Erin gets standard services from the county, she will always bargain for better service and to get Erin’s share of various initiatives. She said the current mayor has been the root cause of malfunction at Town Council, and that his failure to earn respect at County Council has been a disadvantage to Erin.
“It’s time to restore and enhance the collaborative partnership between the Town of Erin and the County of Wellington,” she said.
Mayor Lou Maieron, formerly a County Councillor and now running again for that position, said in response that Erin actually has a “good relationship” with the county. He said Erin has got a part-time ambulance, rural garbage pick-up and a commitment for a new Hillsburgh library in 2016.
He said he has “great relationships with some hard-working efficiency-based councillors” but not with some “back room” politicians. He continues to protest the province’s assessment-based tax system, which puts a heavier burden on Erin compared to some parts of the county.
“I’ve been fighting to get our fair share. The representation at the county is neither based on population nor assessment. If you look at the three southern municipalities, we’re the highest assessment and the highest population, but we don’t have the majority of votes.”
Brianceau stressed his commitment to protect the environment, strengthen delivery of existing health care services, promote economic development and enhance rural transportation. He also favours reform of the tax system, would look for an environmentally responsible way to get a waste transfer station in Erin and would produce a quarterly newsletter to inform people and encourage their participation.
Tocher would support “Green Development Charges”, providing developers with discounts based on their environmental initiatives. She supports a county plan to track climate change and reduce its impact on infrastructure, and suggests that the County pay for all road construction while the Town covers all maintenance. She would write monthly updates for the news media and employ on-line surveys to get more feedback from residents.
Maieron said as Chair of County Planning he has backed plans for resilience to climate change. He wants more Erin roads to become the county’s responsibility. He supports establishment of a Re-Use Centre in Erin and weekly rural garbage collection (instead of every two weeks). He will push again for an Operational Review to improve efficiency, and would like to see on-line video of county meetings and some meetings held in the evening.
All of the candidates support establishment of a Community Safety Zone (higher speeding fines) in front of Brisbane Public School.
Candidates' ideas on environment and growth
As published in The Erin Advocate
Candidates for Town Council had a chance on October 6 to share their ideas on how the Town can be environmentally responsible in dealing with demands for efficiency and growth.
An All Candidates’ Meeting, hosted by Transition Erin and moderated by Jay Mowat, was held at the Legion hall with almost 200 residents attending. Candidates gave one-minute answers in a randomly selected order, drawn by lot.
Dealing with areas where growth should be allowed, candidates seemed reluctant to be specific, but when asked about a large centralized sewage treatment plant, most were opposed – preferring some form of alternative technology. Everyone was concerned about climate change, but ideas on what to do about it locally were varied.
Jeff Duncan said before proceeding further on sewers, the current limit of 1,500 new urban residents over 25 years has to raised – providing service to some areas including downtown and industrial zones, but not providing sewers to areas with good septic systems. He stressed removing roadblocks to business, abolition of the Code of Ethics, pressing for revenue from water bottling and putting clear policies in place for developers.
Craig Porterfield said a Small Bore system (septic tanks, with small pipes for effluent) is the most flexible, with lower costs and less disruption to roads. He stressed the need for rural agricultural development, a better shared use agreement at Centre 2000, an inventory of vulnerable infrastructure and that imported fill should be revenue neutral, monitored and tested to MOE standards.
Jamie Cheyne said a dual wastewater system may be practical, with some areas served with a technology like Small Bore, and others on septic systems. He said the Town needs to have control of new growth, and stressed the need for a cooperative council, a Community Liaison Committee, promotion of home-based business, rural economic development, eliminating duplication in municipal services and protecting natural areas.
Matt Sammut said alternative technologies and a performance-based process are essential to lowering the cost of sewers, and to avoid digging up Main Street, and that Erin needs a strong plan to present to senior governments. He says infill development is needed in both Hillsburgh and Erin village and he wants better fiscal planning, better school safety zones, better trails, parks, and recreational facilities and more public access to the river.
Shawn Wilson is opposed to a centralized system, preferring to service downtown and industrial areas without putting it on the back of the taxpayer, and he suggests investigating ozone water treatment. He stressed growth of the commercial sector to broaden the tax base, more productive use of the fair grounds, paving gravel roads to save money and promotion of solar power. He wants to eliminate the “stench” of conflict of interest in Town business.
George Silva said a centralized plant is the last resort, suggesting investigation of treatment using wetlands, and of using the waste to produce fuel. He would study a reduction of Town staff, making people welcome at the Town office, making Erin a destination, imposing a levy on owners of vacant stores, reducing of light pollution and adopting a climate plan that includes solar power, use of greywater, permeable paving and other elements of Low Impact Development (LID).
Josie Wintersinger is opposed to a central system, saying that alternative technologies could reduce household costs to “just a few thousand dollars maximum”. She stressed affordable housing, especially for seniors, paving of rural roads, the benefits of the Operational Review (including better efficiency in the recreation department), the use of solar water heating and greywater and an effective committee system.
Rob Smith said once key areas are serviced, many homes could continue on private septic systems – with a monitoring program to ensure they are working properly. He stressed development of tourism and a reputation as a retirement community, staging development so people can assimilate, use of solar power at Centre 2000, broad expansion of recycling programs, efficiency through the Operational Review and stronger terms of reference for Town committees.
John Brennan said a performance based bidding process will help determine the best wastewater technology, and that he is open to having some new housing growth on septic systems once the capacity of the West Credit River to accept sewage effluent is used up. He wants the savings from small energy conservation projects reinvested in larger ones. He stressed working with the county on economic development and on emergency preparedness.
Chris Naraysingh said he doesn’t believe in large-scale treatment, wants alternatives considered and wants costs shared by senior governments and developers. He stressed the need for controlled development in all areas of the Town, for seniors housing, improved tax revenue from industrial and commercial activity, elimination of staff duplication, energy conservation (including improved lighting) and creating a resilient infrastructure without a tax burden.
Evelyn McLean said we do need a centralized sewage plant, but that it still needs investigation of the methods and costs, with a preference for using green technology. She stressed the need for business growth, better services for seniors, improved family recreation, more retail services in rural areas, a deterrent against those who dump garbage in the river, attention to roads that have been “sadly neglected” and promotion of local shopping.
Candidates for Town Council had a chance on October 6 to share their ideas on how the Town can be environmentally responsible in dealing with demands for efficiency and growth.
An All Candidates’ Meeting, hosted by Transition Erin and moderated by Jay Mowat, was held at the Legion hall with almost 200 residents attending. Candidates gave one-minute answers in a randomly selected order, drawn by lot.
Dealing with areas where growth should be allowed, candidates seemed reluctant to be specific, but when asked about a large centralized sewage treatment plant, most were opposed – preferring some form of alternative technology. Everyone was concerned about climate change, but ideas on what to do about it locally were varied.
Jeff Duncan said before proceeding further on sewers, the current limit of 1,500 new urban residents over 25 years has to raised – providing service to some areas including downtown and industrial zones, but not providing sewers to areas with good septic systems. He stressed removing roadblocks to business, abolition of the Code of Ethics, pressing for revenue from water bottling and putting clear policies in place for developers.
Craig Porterfield said a Small Bore system (septic tanks, with small pipes for effluent) is the most flexible, with lower costs and less disruption to roads. He stressed the need for rural agricultural development, a better shared use agreement at Centre 2000, an inventory of vulnerable infrastructure and that imported fill should be revenue neutral, monitored and tested to MOE standards.
Jamie Cheyne said a dual wastewater system may be practical, with some areas served with a technology like Small Bore, and others on septic systems. He said the Town needs to have control of new growth, and stressed the need for a cooperative council, a Community Liaison Committee, promotion of home-based business, rural economic development, eliminating duplication in municipal services and protecting natural areas.
Matt Sammut said alternative technologies and a performance-based process are essential to lowering the cost of sewers, and to avoid digging up Main Street, and that Erin needs a strong plan to present to senior governments. He says infill development is needed in both Hillsburgh and Erin village and he wants better fiscal planning, better school safety zones, better trails, parks, and recreational facilities and more public access to the river.
Shawn Wilson is opposed to a centralized system, preferring to service downtown and industrial areas without putting it on the back of the taxpayer, and he suggests investigating ozone water treatment. He stressed growth of the commercial sector to broaden the tax base, more productive use of the fair grounds, paving gravel roads to save money and promotion of solar power. He wants to eliminate the “stench” of conflict of interest in Town business.
George Silva said a centralized plant is the last resort, suggesting investigation of treatment using wetlands, and of using the waste to produce fuel. He would study a reduction of Town staff, making people welcome at the Town office, making Erin a destination, imposing a levy on owners of vacant stores, reducing of light pollution and adopting a climate plan that includes solar power, use of greywater, permeable paving and other elements of Low Impact Development (LID).
Josie Wintersinger is opposed to a central system, saying that alternative technologies could reduce household costs to “just a few thousand dollars maximum”. She stressed affordable housing, especially for seniors, paving of rural roads, the benefits of the Operational Review (including better efficiency in the recreation department), the use of solar water heating and greywater and an effective committee system.
Rob Smith said once key areas are serviced, many homes could continue on private septic systems – with a monitoring program to ensure they are working properly. He stressed development of tourism and a reputation as a retirement community, staging development so people can assimilate, use of solar power at Centre 2000, broad expansion of recycling programs, efficiency through the Operational Review and stronger terms of reference for Town committees.
John Brennan said a performance based bidding process will help determine the best wastewater technology, and that he is open to having some new housing growth on septic systems once the capacity of the West Credit River to accept sewage effluent is used up. He wants the savings from small energy conservation projects reinvested in larger ones. He stressed working with the county on economic development and on emergency preparedness.
Chris Naraysingh said he doesn’t believe in large-scale treatment, wants alternatives considered and wants costs shared by senior governments and developers. He stressed the need for controlled development in all areas of the Town, for seniors housing, improved tax revenue from industrial and commercial activity, elimination of staff duplication, energy conservation (including improved lighting) and creating a resilient infrastructure without a tax burden.
Evelyn McLean said we do need a centralized sewage plant, but that it still needs investigation of the methods and costs, with a preference for using green technology. She stressed the need for business growth, better services for seniors, improved family recreation, more retail services in rural areas, a deterrent against those who dump garbage in the river, attention to roads that have been “sadly neglected” and promotion of local shopping.
Trustee candidates promote student benefits
As published in The Erin Advocate
Candidates for school trustee positions showed their enthusiasm and shared details of their skills and experience with Erin voters at a meeting on October 8, hosted by Transition Erin.
For the English Public School Trustee position, incumbent Kathryn Cooper of Erin was in attendance, while Brandon Moyer of Guelph could not attend and submitted a statement that was read by moderator Jay Mowat.
For the English Separate School Trustee position, candidates Cassandra Chornoboy of Rockwood and Shaun Redmond of Guelph were on hand. None of the candidates attended for the French Public or French Separate Trustee positions – their contact information is available on the Town website.
Kathryn Cooper favours a whole child approach to education and stressed her role as an environmental trustee on the Upper Grand District School Board, bringing in reforms for “eco-efficient facilities” and a vision that “inspires students to lead with new and sustainable ways of thinking”.
The board’s new environmental policy includes sustainability plans by each school, affecting all areas of learning, administration and maintenance. Solar panels have been installed at 41 schools, including Brisbane and Erin Public, feeding power into the Hydro grid and generating revenue of $375,000 per year for the board – which has an overall budget of $351 million.
She is proud of investments totalling $9 million in East Wellington schools, including Full-Day Kindergarten and improvements to French Immersion, and about the agreement to resolve long-standing problems with the Shared Use Agreement at Centre 2000. She has helped parents organize their campaign for a Community Safety Zone at Brisbane.
Brandon Moyer works for Bell Technical Solutions and has done community service with St. John’s Ambulance, raising funds to fight leukemia and the Hillside Festival. He is running for trustee because, “Although we have a great education system, there are still gaps and areas that need attention.”
He believes many students are not well prepared for transitions, and that the prime role of education is to teach them the “basics to succeed in life”. He promises to bring parents concerns to the board “in an open and transparent manner”. He would “provide fiscal accountability and honesty”, and explore “new ways of making the curricula easier for students to learn”.
Cassandra Chornoboy is a recent graduate of the separate school system, now working as a program coordinator at the Agricultural Adaptation Council in Guelph. She was elected by her peers and served for two years as a Student Trustee on the Wellington Catholic District School Board.
“If we want the Catholic faith to be protected, we have to get the youth involved,” she said, adding that agriculture should play a larger role in student learning. She said when educational assistants are not available to help struggling students, peer help should be organized to supplement the funded programs.
Her other experiences include serving as the Erin Fall Fair Ambassador, being a 4H leader and being elected to the Operations Committee at St. Peter’s Church in Oustic.
Shaun Redmond worked 12 years for the Wellington Catholic District School Board in technology roles, and said his “deep understanding of the organizational processes, and the social and psychological aspects that influence them are the core of what I bring to the table.”
His top priority is promoting leadership among youth, and said it is important to identify student problems early, in order to help them succeed.
He has been president of the Ontario Catholic School Business Officials Association, been involved in the Sacred Heart Parish Community and served at the board level with the Wellington Catholic Parent Involvement Committee “to gain a broader perspective across schools and join forces for the betterment of parents through workshops and conferences.”
Candidates for school trustee positions showed their enthusiasm and shared details of their skills and experience with Erin voters at a meeting on October 8, hosted by Transition Erin.
For the English Public School Trustee position, incumbent Kathryn Cooper of Erin was in attendance, while Brandon Moyer of Guelph could not attend and submitted a statement that was read by moderator Jay Mowat.
For the English Separate School Trustee position, candidates Cassandra Chornoboy of Rockwood and Shaun Redmond of Guelph were on hand. None of the candidates attended for the French Public or French Separate Trustee positions – their contact information is available on the Town website.
Kathryn Cooper favours a whole child approach to education and stressed her role as an environmental trustee on the Upper Grand District School Board, bringing in reforms for “eco-efficient facilities” and a vision that “inspires students to lead with new and sustainable ways of thinking”.
The board’s new environmental policy includes sustainability plans by each school, affecting all areas of learning, administration and maintenance. Solar panels have been installed at 41 schools, including Brisbane and Erin Public, feeding power into the Hydro grid and generating revenue of $375,000 per year for the board – which has an overall budget of $351 million.
She is proud of investments totalling $9 million in East Wellington schools, including Full-Day Kindergarten and improvements to French Immersion, and about the agreement to resolve long-standing problems with the Shared Use Agreement at Centre 2000. She has helped parents organize their campaign for a Community Safety Zone at Brisbane.
Brandon Moyer works for Bell Technical Solutions and has done community service with St. John’s Ambulance, raising funds to fight leukemia and the Hillside Festival. He is running for trustee because, “Although we have a great education system, there are still gaps and areas that need attention.”
He believes many students are not well prepared for transitions, and that the prime role of education is to teach them the “basics to succeed in life”. He promises to bring parents concerns to the board “in an open and transparent manner”. He would “provide fiscal accountability and honesty”, and explore “new ways of making the curricula easier for students to learn”.
Cassandra Chornoboy is a recent graduate of the separate school system, now working as a program coordinator at the Agricultural Adaptation Council in Guelph. She was elected by her peers and served for two years as a Student Trustee on the Wellington Catholic District School Board.
“If we want the Catholic faith to be protected, we have to get the youth involved,” she said, adding that agriculture should play a larger role in student learning. She said when educational assistants are not available to help struggling students, peer help should be organized to supplement the funded programs.
Her other experiences include serving as the Erin Fall Fair Ambassador, being a 4H leader and being elected to the Operations Committee at St. Peter’s Church in Oustic.
Shaun Redmond worked 12 years for the Wellington Catholic District School Board in technology roles, and said his “deep understanding of the organizational processes, and the social and psychological aspects that influence them are the core of what I bring to the table.”
His top priority is promoting leadership among youth, and said it is important to identify student problems early, in order to help them succeed.
He has been president of the Ontario Catholic School Business Officials Association, been involved in the Sacred Heart Parish Community and served at the board level with the Wellington Catholic Parent Involvement Committee “to gain a broader perspective across schools and join forces for the betterment of parents through workshops and conferences.”
Pierre Brianceau sees need for change
As published in The Erin Advocate - by the candidate
With my wife Gina and our four children, our family moved to the village of Erin in 1981. In 1991, frustrated with out-of-control property taxes, aging schools and a lack of community facilities, I decided that it was time to make a difference in my family’s home town and became the public school board trustee for the then Village of Erin and the Township of Erin at the Wellington County Board of Education.
Back then, the Village of Erin taxpayers had had a decade of 15% average tax increases for the village council, school board and county council, the highest in the 21 municipalities of Wellington and including the City of Guelph.
At the same time it was also evident that all area schools were at capacity, with no more room for portables and no plans for growth. The village office was half condemned. The local active seniors group, led by Jack Dyce, and also EWAG now known as EWCS (East Wellington Community Services) were looking for a stand alone building. Erin had a 1,000 sq.ft. public library that was open only 15 hours a week!
I proposed a very unique and creative vision for Erin to develop a multi-use facility with the goal of delivering the maximum number of public services while minimizing building, land and operating costs for the local taxpayers.
I spent two terms (6 years) as one of 17 trustees, winning the second term election with the high school on the ballot. With the support of the school board’s senior management and that of the trustees from the East Wellington Attendance Area Study committee, plus our local MPP Ted Arnott, our project was granted over 20 million dollars for a new “multi-use” facility featuring a 560 student high school in Centre 2000, a renovated Erin P.S. and an expansion of Brisbane P.S.
The only reason our community received funding for the high school and beat other projects in Peel region was because of the pioneering partnerships established between the town, the county and the board. Erin now has a centre with state of the art high school, theatre, public library, fragile senior centre, nursery school and medical centre attached to a traditional arena and community centre. Officials came from across Canada to see our achievement.
After two terms as public school board trustee, I was appointed for six years as a volunteer on the Waterloo-Wellington-Dufferin Trillium foundation with the net result of over 2 million dollars granted in support for non-profit entities serving the needs of Erin.
I have the work ethics, knowledge, creativity and passion for the well-being of our community and would be a great asset in the position of County Councillor. Once again, I see a desperate need for change and am ready, willing and able to get our community back on track!!
With my wife Gina and our four children, our family moved to the village of Erin in 1981. In 1991, frustrated with out-of-control property taxes, aging schools and a lack of community facilities, I decided that it was time to make a difference in my family’s home town and became the public school board trustee for the then Village of Erin and the Township of Erin at the Wellington County Board of Education.
Back then, the Village of Erin taxpayers had had a decade of 15% average tax increases for the village council, school board and county council, the highest in the 21 municipalities of Wellington and including the City of Guelph.
At the same time it was also evident that all area schools were at capacity, with no more room for portables and no plans for growth. The village office was half condemned. The local active seniors group, led by Jack Dyce, and also EWAG now known as EWCS (East Wellington Community Services) were looking for a stand alone building. Erin had a 1,000 sq.ft. public library that was open only 15 hours a week!
I proposed a very unique and creative vision for Erin to develop a multi-use facility with the goal of delivering the maximum number of public services while minimizing building, land and operating costs for the local taxpayers.
I spent two terms (6 years) as one of 17 trustees, winning the second term election with the high school on the ballot. With the support of the school board’s senior management and that of the trustees from the East Wellington Attendance Area Study committee, plus our local MPP Ted Arnott, our project was granted over 20 million dollars for a new “multi-use” facility featuring a 560 student high school in Centre 2000, a renovated Erin P.S. and an expansion of Brisbane P.S.
The only reason our community received funding for the high school and beat other projects in Peel region was because of the pioneering partnerships established between the town, the county and the board. Erin now has a centre with state of the art high school, theatre, public library, fragile senior centre, nursery school and medical centre attached to a traditional arena and community centre. Officials came from across Canada to see our achievement.
After two terms as public school board trustee, I was appointed for six years as a volunteer on the Waterloo-Wellington-Dufferin Trillium foundation with the net result of over 2 million dollars granted in support for non-profit entities serving the needs of Erin.
I have the work ethics, knowledge, creativity and passion for the well-being of our community and would be a great asset in the position of County Councillor. Once again, I see a desperate need for change and am ready, willing and able to get our community back on track!!
Evelyn McLean promises respectful leadership
As published in The Erin Advocate - by the candidate
I am running for a position on Erin Council on October 27, and I would like to let you know a little bit about me.
I have lived in the Erin village area since 1974. I retired from the Ontario Provincial Police as an officer in 1999 and subsequently opened up my own business as a Paralegal representing individuals and companies that had been charged with offences under the Provincial Offences Act in Court. I retired from this business in 2009.
During my time with the OPP I sat on the Board of Directors for a Women’s Shelter for victims of Domestic Violence and became the liaison between them and the OPP.
I also was the Community Services Officer for the Town of Caledon, doing presentations for Schools, Elder Abuse, Drug and Alcohol Abuse, Sexual Abuse and many other programmes for several years before transferring into Court Services and establishing a system for OPP officers’ court matters in Brampton and Orangeville before retiring.
My husband and I have attended council meetings since 1988, through four different mayors and councils.
The next four years will be very difficult for the new members of Town of Erin Council as there will be some very serious and difficult decisions to be made.
Some of the more important decisions include:
• continuation of the SSMP, which is very important for the growth of Erin
* the Mill Pond/Station Street rebuild issue
• how to attract economic development to Erin and build on it
• Residents are moving from Erin, especially Seniors and young people. With no employment opportunities, high cost of housing and taxes plus the cost of living going up constantly, people find it difficult to remain here. We must find a way to attract people to our beautiful community.
• The amount of fill being brought in from outside our area has to be addressed.
NOW is your chance to bring the Town of Erin into the future with a strong, responsible and respectful leadership who work with the residents to make the Town of Erin a better place to live.
I look forward to your support on October 27, and working FOR you for the next four years.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at evelyn.mclean@sympatico.ca.
I am running for a position on Erin Council on October 27, and I would like to let you know a little bit about me.
I have lived in the Erin village area since 1974. I retired from the Ontario Provincial Police as an officer in 1999 and subsequently opened up my own business as a Paralegal representing individuals and companies that had been charged with offences under the Provincial Offences Act in Court. I retired from this business in 2009.
During my time with the OPP I sat on the Board of Directors for a Women’s Shelter for victims of Domestic Violence and became the liaison between them and the OPP.
I also was the Community Services Officer for the Town of Caledon, doing presentations for Schools, Elder Abuse, Drug and Alcohol Abuse, Sexual Abuse and many other programmes for several years before transferring into Court Services and establishing a system for OPP officers’ court matters in Brampton and Orangeville before retiring.
My husband and I have attended council meetings since 1988, through four different mayors and councils.
The next four years will be very difficult for the new members of Town of Erin Council as there will be some very serious and difficult decisions to be made.
Some of the more important decisions include:
• continuation of the SSMP, which is very important for the growth of Erin
* the Mill Pond/Station Street rebuild issue
• how to attract economic development to Erin and build on it
• Residents are moving from Erin, especially Seniors and young people. With no employment opportunities, high cost of housing and taxes plus the cost of living going up constantly, people find it difficult to remain here. We must find a way to attract people to our beautiful community.
• The amount of fill being brought in from outside our area has to be addressed.
NOW is your chance to bring the Town of Erin into the future with a strong, responsible and respectful leadership who work with the residents to make the Town of Erin a better place to live.
I look forward to your support on October 27, and working FOR you for the next four years.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at evelyn.mclean@sympatico.ca.
George Silva has a vision for Erin
As published in The Erin Advocate - by the candidate
Hi neighbour! My name is George Silva and I’m running for Erin Town Council. I believe our Town is at a crossroads and the new council you elect on October 27 will determine our future success.
The last four years have not been helpful; we have had a dysfunctional council that has spent more time arguing with each other rather than caring for their constituents.
Here’s my vision for Erin:
1. The empty storefronts and lack of shoppers on Main St. saddens me. Council needs to work closely with the BIA to develop a strategy to turn our shopping district into one that both locals and tourists want to visit.
2. We need a plan of action in place for future development. We need to make informed decisions and have standards that ensure our Town maintains its charm.
3. I believe there are alternatives to putting a big pipe down the middle of Main St. We need to move forward with the study so our final decision is both smart and affordable.
4. Improve how council works with each other, with Town employees, and of course, with you.
Visit www.electgeorgesilva.ca today for more details.
The last four years have not been helpful; we have had a dysfunctional council that has spent more time arguing with each other rather than caring for their constituents.
Here’s my vision for Erin:
1. The empty storefronts and lack of shoppers on Main St. saddens me. Council needs to work closely with the BIA to develop a strategy to turn our shopping district into one that both locals and tourists want to visit.
2. We need a plan of action in place for future development. We need to make informed decisions and have standards that ensure our Town maintains its charm.
3. I believe there are alternatives to putting a big pipe down the middle of Main St. We need to move forward with the study so our final decision is both smart and affordable.
4. Improve how council works with each other, with Town employees, and of course, with you.
Visit www.electgeorgesilva.ca today for more details.
David Lyver says people deserve choice
As published in The Erin Advocate - by the candidate
l’m David Lyver, running for Mayor because I believe the taxpayer deserves another choice. I’ve served on Erin’s Environment Committee and ran Clean-up Day for 10+ years. I also won a CVC (Credit Valley Conservation) award for same. Lived in Town 20+ years & raised my family here. Been active in Erin sports, both soccer & hockey & currently coach a competitive soccer team in Peel.
Running for office, to bring positive change to this community. Last term we elected a mayor for change, but gave him a council of same old same old; that cannot be repeated. If elected I would improve the following:
Our taxes support county planning, some $400,000+/yr. Past councils have chosen against County Planning services, why? Before spending another cent to support Erin’s planning department, especially as our growth is SSMP frozen, I would utilize county planning to its maximum, saving Erin taxpayers up to 150K.
Recreation lost over $800,000 last year. I would combine the two community centres into one recreation department and have a Sports board, inclusive of citizens, making recommendations to Town Council on how to manage recreation more efficiently.
On the three remaining EA phases of the SSMP, I want full costing estimates before spending another cent.
If we want Erin to grow, we should consider working with developers, taking their offer of 250 sewage units to resolve the downtown septic issues in both villages.
Proceeding with the current $56 million proposal, based on receiving 66% grants, maximizing our municipal debt 100% does not appear feasible at this time.
The Credit River is currently in great shape and we’re only estimating 500 new homes in the 20 year planning period – not significant by provincial requirements.
Finding savings through efficiency and economy to fund a Erin road paving reserve makes sense as annual gravel cost & application are exorbitant.
Wellington County, we need fair service for taxes paid & not supportive of $ 1.5 million donation from Erin taxpayers for hospitals we don’t use.
Compare my message to mayoral candidates Finnie & Alls and decide who’s looking after the taxpayer.
Questions & offers of support are welcome – see candidate information on the election page of the Town of Erin website (www.erin.ca).
For positive change vote David Lyver, Mayor.
l’m David Lyver, running for Mayor because I believe the taxpayer deserves another choice. I’ve served on Erin’s Environment Committee and ran Clean-up Day for 10+ years. I also won a CVC (Credit Valley Conservation) award for same. Lived in Town 20+ years & raised my family here. Been active in Erin sports, both soccer & hockey & currently coach a competitive soccer team in Peel.
Running for office, to bring positive change to this community. Last term we elected a mayor for change, but gave him a council of same old same old; that cannot be repeated. If elected I would improve the following:
Our taxes support county planning, some $400,000+/yr. Past councils have chosen against County Planning services, why? Before spending another cent to support Erin’s planning department, especially as our growth is SSMP frozen, I would utilize county planning to its maximum, saving Erin taxpayers up to 150K.
Recreation lost over $800,000 last year. I would combine the two community centres into one recreation department and have a Sports board, inclusive of citizens, making recommendations to Town Council on how to manage recreation more efficiently.
On the three remaining EA phases of the SSMP, I want full costing estimates before spending another cent.
If we want Erin to grow, we should consider working with developers, taking their offer of 250 sewage units to resolve the downtown septic issues in both villages.
Proceeding with the current $56 million proposal, based on receiving 66% grants, maximizing our municipal debt 100% does not appear feasible at this time.
The Credit River is currently in great shape and we’re only estimating 500 new homes in the 20 year planning period – not significant by provincial requirements.
Finding savings through efficiency and economy to fund a Erin road paving reserve makes sense as annual gravel cost & application are exorbitant.
Wellington County, we need fair service for taxes paid & not supportive of $ 1.5 million donation from Erin taxpayers for hospitals we don’t use.
Compare my message to mayoral candidates Finnie & Alls and decide who’s looking after the taxpayer.
Questions & offers of support are welcome – see candidate information on the election page of the Town of Erin website (www.erin.ca).
For positive change vote David Lyver, Mayor.
October 08, 2014
Pierre Brianceau sees need for change
As published in The Erin Advocate - by the candidate
With my wife Gina and our four children, our family moved to the village of Erin in 1981. In 1991, frustrated with out-of-control property taxes, aging schools and a lack of community facilities, I decided that it was time to make a difference in my family’s home town and became the public school board trustee for the then Village of Erin and the Township of Erin at the Wellington County Board of Education.
Back then, the Village of Erin taxpayers had had a decade of 15% average tax increases for the village council, school board and county council, the highest in the 21 municipalities of Wellington and including the City of Guelph.
At the same time it was also evident that all area schools were at capacity, with no more room for portables and no plans for growth. The village office was half condemned. The local active seniors group, led by Jack Dyce, and also EWAG now known as EWCS (East Wellington Community Services) were looking for a stand alone building. Erin had a 1,000 sq.ft. public library that was open only 15 hours a week!
I proposed a very unique and creative vision for Erin to develop a multi-use facility with the goal of delivering the maximum number of public services while minimizing building, land and operating costs for the local taxpayers.
I spent two terms (6 years) as one of 17 trustees, winning the second term election with the high school on the ballot. With the support of the school board’s senior management and that of the trustees from the East Wellington Attendance Area Study committee, plus our local MPP Ted Arnott, our project was granted over 20 million dollars for a new “multi-use” facility featuring a 560 student high school in Centre 2000, a renovated Erin P.S. and an expansion of Brisbane P.S.
The only reason our community received funding for the high school and beat other projects in Peel region was because of the pioneering partnerships established between the town, the county and the board. Erin now has a centre with state of the art high school, theatre, public library, fragile senior centre, nursery school and medical centre attached to a traditional arena and community centre. Officials came from across Canada to see our achievement.
After two terms as public school board trustee, I was appointed for six years as a volunteer on the Waterloo-Wellington-Dufferin Trillium foundation with the net result of over 2 million dollars granted in support for non-profit entities serving the needs of Erin.
I have the work ethics, knowledge, creativity and passion for the well-being of our community and would be a great asset in the position of County Councillor. Once again, I see a desperate need for change and am ready, willing and able to get our community back on track!!
With my wife Gina and our four children, our family moved to the village of Erin in 1981. In 1991, frustrated with out-of-control property taxes, aging schools and a lack of community facilities, I decided that it was time to make a difference in my family’s home town and became the public school board trustee for the then Village of Erin and the Township of Erin at the Wellington County Board of Education.
Back then, the Village of Erin taxpayers had had a decade of 15% average tax increases for the village council, school board and county council, the highest in the 21 municipalities of Wellington and including the City of Guelph.
At the same time it was also evident that all area schools were at capacity, with no more room for portables and no plans for growth. The village office was half condemned. The local active seniors group, led by Jack Dyce, and also EWAG now known as EWCS (East Wellington Community Services) were looking for a stand alone building. Erin had a 1,000 sq.ft. public library that was open only 15 hours a week!
I proposed a very unique and creative vision for Erin to develop a multi-use facility with the goal of delivering the maximum number of public services while minimizing building, land and operating costs for the local taxpayers.
I spent two terms (6 years) as one of 17 trustees, winning the second term election with the high school on the ballot. With the support of the school board’s senior management and that of the trustees from the East Wellington Attendance Area Study committee, plus our local MPP Ted Arnott, our project was granted over 20 million dollars for a new “multi-use” facility featuring a 560 student high school in Centre 2000, a renovated Erin P.S. and an expansion of Brisbane P.S.
The only reason our community received funding for the high school and beat other projects in Peel region was because of the pioneering partnerships established between the town, the county and the board. Erin now has a centre with state of the art high school, theatre, public library, fragile senior centre, nursery school and medical centre attached to a traditional arena and community centre. Officials came from across Canada to see our achievement.
After two terms as public school board trustee, I was appointed for six years as a volunteer on the Waterloo-Wellington-Dufferin Trillium foundation with the net result of over 2 million dollars granted in support for non-profit entities serving the needs of Erin.
I have the work ethics, knowledge, creativity and passion for the well-being of our community and would be a great asset in the position of County Councillor. Once again, I see a desperate need for change and am ready, willing and able to get our community back on track!!
Staying busy with this, that & the other thing
As published in the Erin Advocate
It always seems like there’s more stuff going on than a person could ever get to, but on one recent weekend I tried to cram in as much as possible. After helping to build picnic tables for the new Riverside Park in Erin (official opening soon) and doing a ton of garden work, I got to four local events.
Rock ‘n’ Roll etc. at Legion
Thanks to Jerry Staples and Norma Pokocky for making everyone feel welcome at their Band Showcase and Jam at the Erin Legion. They had invited four bands to come out and play for fun, and the music was good.
Between the main sets Jerry and Norma did some guitar pieces in classical style. I brought my guitar and did a few selections from my songbook.
They’ve been having these jams for a couple of years, and people are welcome to show up and play on their own or with an informal group. Or just have a beer and listen. The next one is on October 18, starting at 7 pm. Admission is $5.
Demanding action on climate change
A group of eight Erin area residents was among the 300,000 plus at the New York Climate March.
“This event will serve as a huge signal to the powers-that-be that drastic actions and a commitment to huge reductions in greenhouse gases are needed when nations of the world gather in Paris in December 2015 to ratify a new climate agreement, in order to preserve a livable climate,” said marcher Liz Armstrong.
Meanwhile, a group met at the All Saints church hall to show some solidarity with the travellers (one of 2,646 rallies in 162 countries) and see an excellent film called Disruption, presented by Transition Erin. Check it out at www.watchdisruption.com, or visit www.peoplesclimate.org and www.citizensclimatelobby.ca
The Value Crisis
A large crowd turned out to a book launch at the Historic Alton Mill Arts Centre, in support of author Andrew Welch, who is also Town Crier for Erin and Caledon and a leader with Transition Erin.
His book, entitled “The Value Crisis – From dollars to democracy, why numbers are ruining our world”, provides an entertaining and thought-provoking analysis of our value systems.
It seems the more we rely on numbers and dollars to measure value, the less attention we pay to traditional systems that could support a better quality of life. The website: www.thevaluecrisis.com.
Interfaith Speakers Series
Speaking of traditional value systems, I ventured over to a fascinating talk on the ancient Hindu faith by Shirish Nathwani. It was sponsored by Central Peel United Churches and organized by Rev. Felicia Urbanski of Erin United.
“Our communities are becoming more diverse, so it’s important to be in dialogue and see the face of each religion by meeting the people,” she said. The next session is October 26, 2-4 pm at Caledon Village Place, with Idrisa Pandit speaking on the Muslim faith.
Election stuff
Voters should have received their mail-in ballots by now for the municipal election – if not they should call the Town at 519-855-4407. Kits can be returned by mail until October 18, or in person to the Municipal Office any time until 8:00 pm on Election Day, October 27.
Municipal office hours are extended on Thursday, October 23 to 8:00 pm and they are open on Saturday, October 25 from 10 am to 2 pm. Voters may also deposit their kits after hours through the mail slot at the office main entrance.
Previously I had written that a sealed ballot box would be attached to the mail slot, but actually it is the whole entranceway that is sealed off so that only election officials will have access to kit envelopes.
It always seems like there’s more stuff going on than a person could ever get to, but on one recent weekend I tried to cram in as much as possible. After helping to build picnic tables for the new Riverside Park in Erin (official opening soon) and doing a ton of garden work, I got to four local events.
Rock ‘n’ Roll etc. at Legion
Thanks to Jerry Staples and Norma Pokocky for making everyone feel welcome at their Band Showcase and Jam at the Erin Legion. They had invited four bands to come out and play for fun, and the music was good.
Between the main sets Jerry and Norma did some guitar pieces in classical style. I brought my guitar and did a few selections from my songbook.
They’ve been having these jams for a couple of years, and people are welcome to show up and play on their own or with an informal group. Or just have a beer and listen. The next one is on October 18, starting at 7 pm. Admission is $5.
Demanding action on climate change
A group of eight Erin area residents was among the 300,000 plus at the New York Climate March.
“This event will serve as a huge signal to the powers-that-be that drastic actions and a commitment to huge reductions in greenhouse gases are needed when nations of the world gather in Paris in December 2015 to ratify a new climate agreement, in order to preserve a livable climate,” said marcher Liz Armstrong.
Meanwhile, a group met at the All Saints church hall to show some solidarity with the travellers (one of 2,646 rallies in 162 countries) and see an excellent film called Disruption, presented by Transition Erin. Check it out at www.watchdisruption.com, or visit www.peoplesclimate.org and www.citizensclimatelobby.ca
The Value Crisis
A large crowd turned out to a book launch at the Historic Alton Mill Arts Centre, in support of author Andrew Welch, who is also Town Crier for Erin and Caledon and a leader with Transition Erin.
His book, entitled “The Value Crisis – From dollars to democracy, why numbers are ruining our world”, provides an entertaining and thought-provoking analysis of our value systems.
It seems the more we rely on numbers and dollars to measure value, the less attention we pay to traditional systems that could support a better quality of life. The website: www.thevaluecrisis.com.
Interfaith Speakers Series
Speaking of traditional value systems, I ventured over to a fascinating talk on the ancient Hindu faith by Shirish Nathwani. It was sponsored by Central Peel United Churches and organized by Rev. Felicia Urbanski of Erin United.
“Our communities are becoming more diverse, so it’s important to be in dialogue and see the face of each religion by meeting the people,” she said. The next session is October 26, 2-4 pm at Caledon Village Place, with Idrisa Pandit speaking on the Muslim faith.
Election stuff
Voters should have received their mail-in ballots by now for the municipal election – if not they should call the Town at 519-855-4407. Kits can be returned by mail until October 18, or in person to the Municipal Office any time until 8:00 pm on Election Day, October 27.
Municipal office hours are extended on Thursday, October 23 to 8:00 pm and they are open on Saturday, October 25 from 10 am to 2 pm. Voters may also deposit their kits after hours through the mail slot at the office main entrance.
Previously I had written that a sealed ballot box would be attached to the mail slot, but actually it is the whole entranceway that is sealed off so that only election officials will have access to kit envelopes.
October 01, 2014
Candidates take positions on business issues
As published in the Erin Advocate
Erin election candidates had their first opportunity to publicly answer voters’ questions as the East Wellington Chamber of Commerce (EWCC) hosted an All Candidates Meeting on business issues.
The September 24 event featured 17 contenders – three running for the Mayor’s job, three for the County seat and 11 for the four Town Council positions. Candidates had just one minute each for opening statements, answers to questions and closing remarks.
Mayoral candidates were allowed to answer every question, while random groups of other candidates were selected to give answers. Only highlights are included in this article.
The first question posed by moderator Dave Doan, EWCC Vice-Chair, pointed out the importance of Main Street businesses and asked if candidates would support efforts to attract tourists, retain existing businesses and attract new ones.
Mayoral candidate Allan Alls said his answer is Yes, but noted that the Town has limited funds to spend outside its core functions.
“Most of the businesses told me, ‘Give us a 10-year plan, and then we can spend the money to look after our own businesses.’ I’m big on improving the downtown, but we have to look after our wastewater management system first.”
Rod Finnie, hoping to return as mayor, said it is important to target advertising at the people who are likely to come here.
“We have to invest in the infrastructure so it looks good, and we have to work together cooperatively to make things happen.”
Mayoral candidate David Lyver said better communication is needed with businesses.
“We have a lot of potential here,” he said, stressing the importance of lobbying for money from the provincial and federal governments to make the community better. “We are 60 km from the 11th most industrialized city in the world, and we seem to have issues. We shouldn’t have these issues.”
Council candidate Jamie Cheyne said that while infrastructure and advertising are important, the Town needs to create a attractive market that is more than just downtown Erin, with a greater choice of special events.
County candidate Pierre Brianceau said the pipeline of support from the county has been “shut down for more than ten years”, but that we should be drawing on Wellington’s economic development initiatives.
“Since the Town is in sort of dire straights, and development charges seem to be quite high, it would possibly be a good idea to have a moratorium on development charges (DCs) until the business community starts to catch up.”
Several candidates favour lower DCs as an incentive to businesses, but Finnie said DCs are reasonable compared to neighbouring towns, and warned that lower fees would mean higher taxes to make up the revenue shortfall. Porterfield said temporary tax relief might be a preferable incentive.
Council candidate Chris Naraysingh said the cost of lower DCs would be offset by improved revenue from business activity. He said the Town should be helping businesses “considerably”, adopting a more open, inviting attitude towards them, and establishing a committee to work with the county and business groups like EWCC and the BIA.
Council candidate John Brennan said he has worked with the BIA, Hills of Headwaters Tourism and the Wellington Economic Development Group where the Town could leverage help for local businesses. He supports the plan to hire an Economic Development Officer, wants to cut red tape and welcome new businesses, and says he can help “shepherd businesses through expansion”.
With limited sewage and river capacity, candidates were asked about adequate allowance for retail and industrial growth.
Finnie said he doesn’t think the idea of providing traditional sewers to 4,500 existing residents and 1,500 new ones can work. He urged the study of alternative methods including sub-surface land disposal, to allow for more effluent while still protecting the river.
Lyver suggested that growth be reallocated to the rural areas in west Erin, putting a sewage treatment plant on the Grand River watershed.
Alls said sewage capacity should be reserved first for all existing residents, and second for residential infill and business. “There’s no reason at all in the areas laid out for future development, that we not use the current half-acre for sewage treatment with septic beds – they work great in our soil.”
Council candidate Josie Wintersinger said she hopes the upcoming Environmental Assessment will provide alternatives that could include use of grey water and solar power, and which would avoid the need to dig up streets for sewers.
Council candidate Craig Porterfield said the Town should prioritize the sewage capacity to the areas that need it the most, and “apply other technologies to other sections of the Town, to reduce the need for capacity, such as separating the effluent from the biosolids and treating them separately.”
Council candidate George Silva promoted the use of alternative “green” wastewater technologies that have been successful in Europe, as a way to reduce the costs and impact of disposal.
Discussing ways to avoid ripping up Main Street, Finnie and Alls raised the possibility of a Small Bore system that would keep septic tanks, but treat the effluent. Finnie also suggested running sewer lines down Daniel Street and behind downtown stores on the opposite side, which would also create a route for a public boardwalk along the river as a tourist attraction.
County candidate Lou Maieron said it would best to phase in sewers, starting with the main streets of the two villages. He also questioned the current proposal to pave Daniel Street if it is to have a main sewer line. “You have to work cooperatively with developers, because they’re going to be looking at funding the plant, because they can’t build any houses unless they have a plant.”
Council candidate Rob Smith agreed that a river boardwalk would be a good idea and said the current use of holding tanks is a problem. He said the only alternatives appear to be the Small Bore, or the sewer pipes behind the buildings.
Council candidate Jeff Duncan said sewage capacity does not need to be reserved for all existing homes, since many have well-functioning septic systems, which would enable more capacity to be allocated to future development. He said 1,500 new residents over the next 25 years is not a sufficient growth rate.
Candidates generally agreed that the Operational Review is necessary, with Maieron reminding people that it was one of his promises in the last election. He got no support for a county review, but will push for one again if elected.
Council candidate Matt Sammut said a Town review should have been done a long time ago. “You don’t do it with a heavy hammer and make your staff feel like their jobs are threatened. We have to create a new vision for this community and the staff has to be part of it,” he said.
On a question about hostility towards business, Alls warned that if the downtown dies, property values will decline, and Silva said a friendly environment has to be established, from council to the front-line staff.
Council candidate Evelyn McLean said the Town is dying without economic development: “People need and deserve a cohesive council who can work together and move ahead on the issues before you, especially economic. Without a respectful council, you’re going to be in the same boat you’ve been in for the last four years.”
County candidate Barb Tocher said municipal governments need to be “enabling” for residents and businesses.
“When you come to council or staff, our job is to find a way to make you want to see happen, happen within the rules. That’s our job,” she said.
Council candidate Shawn Wilson said, “The Town is in what I would call dormancy, it’s not doing well. It’s time to revitalize Erin with a wider tax base in the industrial sector, also in tourism.”
Erin election candidates had their first opportunity to publicly answer voters’ questions as the East Wellington Chamber of Commerce (EWCC) hosted an All Candidates Meeting on business issues.
The September 24 event featured 17 contenders – three running for the Mayor’s job, three for the County seat and 11 for the four Town Council positions. Candidates had just one minute each for opening statements, answers to questions and closing remarks.
Mayoral candidates were allowed to answer every question, while random groups of other candidates were selected to give answers. Only highlights are included in this article.
The first question posed by moderator Dave Doan, EWCC Vice-Chair, pointed out the importance of Main Street businesses and asked if candidates would support efforts to attract tourists, retain existing businesses and attract new ones.
Mayoral candidate Allan Alls said his answer is Yes, but noted that the Town has limited funds to spend outside its core functions.
“Most of the businesses told me, ‘Give us a 10-year plan, and then we can spend the money to look after our own businesses.’ I’m big on improving the downtown, but we have to look after our wastewater management system first.”
Rod Finnie, hoping to return as mayor, said it is important to target advertising at the people who are likely to come here.
“We have to invest in the infrastructure so it looks good, and we have to work together cooperatively to make things happen.”
Mayoral candidate David Lyver said better communication is needed with businesses.
“We have a lot of potential here,” he said, stressing the importance of lobbying for money from the provincial and federal governments to make the community better. “We are 60 km from the 11th most industrialized city in the world, and we seem to have issues. We shouldn’t have these issues.”
Council candidate Jamie Cheyne said that while infrastructure and advertising are important, the Town needs to create a attractive market that is more than just downtown Erin, with a greater choice of special events.
County candidate Pierre Brianceau said the pipeline of support from the county has been “shut down for more than ten years”, but that we should be drawing on Wellington’s economic development initiatives.
“Since the Town is in sort of dire straights, and development charges seem to be quite high, it would possibly be a good idea to have a moratorium on development charges (DCs) until the business community starts to catch up.”
Several candidates favour lower DCs as an incentive to businesses, but Finnie said DCs are reasonable compared to neighbouring towns, and warned that lower fees would mean higher taxes to make up the revenue shortfall. Porterfield said temporary tax relief might be a preferable incentive.
Council candidate Chris Naraysingh said the cost of lower DCs would be offset by improved revenue from business activity. He said the Town should be helping businesses “considerably”, adopting a more open, inviting attitude towards them, and establishing a committee to work with the county and business groups like EWCC and the BIA.
Council candidate John Brennan said he has worked with the BIA, Hills of Headwaters Tourism and the Wellington Economic Development Group where the Town could leverage help for local businesses. He supports the plan to hire an Economic Development Officer, wants to cut red tape and welcome new businesses, and says he can help “shepherd businesses through expansion”.
With limited sewage and river capacity, candidates were asked about adequate allowance for retail and industrial growth.
Finnie said he doesn’t think the idea of providing traditional sewers to 4,500 existing residents and 1,500 new ones can work. He urged the study of alternative methods including sub-surface land disposal, to allow for more effluent while still protecting the river.
Lyver suggested that growth be reallocated to the rural areas in west Erin, putting a sewage treatment plant on the Grand River watershed.
Alls said sewage capacity should be reserved first for all existing residents, and second for residential infill and business. “There’s no reason at all in the areas laid out for future development, that we not use the current half-acre for sewage treatment with septic beds – they work great in our soil.”
Council candidate Josie Wintersinger said she hopes the upcoming Environmental Assessment will provide alternatives that could include use of grey water and solar power, and which would avoid the need to dig up streets for sewers.
Council candidate Craig Porterfield said the Town should prioritize the sewage capacity to the areas that need it the most, and “apply other technologies to other sections of the Town, to reduce the need for capacity, such as separating the effluent from the biosolids and treating them separately.”
Council candidate George Silva promoted the use of alternative “green” wastewater technologies that have been successful in Europe, as a way to reduce the costs and impact of disposal.
Discussing ways to avoid ripping up Main Street, Finnie and Alls raised the possibility of a Small Bore system that would keep septic tanks, but treat the effluent. Finnie also suggested running sewer lines down Daniel Street and behind downtown stores on the opposite side, which would also create a route for a public boardwalk along the river as a tourist attraction.
County candidate Lou Maieron said it would best to phase in sewers, starting with the main streets of the two villages. He also questioned the current proposal to pave Daniel Street if it is to have a main sewer line. “You have to work cooperatively with developers, because they’re going to be looking at funding the plant, because they can’t build any houses unless they have a plant.”
Council candidate Rob Smith agreed that a river boardwalk would be a good idea and said the current use of holding tanks is a problem. He said the only alternatives appear to be the Small Bore, or the sewer pipes behind the buildings.
Council candidate Jeff Duncan said sewage capacity does not need to be reserved for all existing homes, since many have well-functioning septic systems, which would enable more capacity to be allocated to future development. He said 1,500 new residents over the next 25 years is not a sufficient growth rate.
Candidates generally agreed that the Operational Review is necessary, with Maieron reminding people that it was one of his promises in the last election. He got no support for a county review, but will push for one again if elected.
Council candidate Matt Sammut said a Town review should have been done a long time ago. “You don’t do it with a heavy hammer and make your staff feel like their jobs are threatened. We have to create a new vision for this community and the staff has to be part of it,” he said.
On a question about hostility towards business, Alls warned that if the downtown dies, property values will decline, and Silva said a friendly environment has to be established, from council to the front-line staff.
Council candidate Evelyn McLean said the Town is dying without economic development: “People need and deserve a cohesive council who can work together and move ahead on the issues before you, especially economic. Without a respectful council, you’re going to be in the same boat you’ve been in for the last four years.”
County candidate Barb Tocher said municipal governments need to be “enabling” for residents and businesses.
“When you come to council or staff, our job is to find a way to make you want to see happen, happen within the rules. That’s our job,” she said.
Council candidate Shawn Wilson said, “The Town is in what I would call dormancy, it’s not doing well. It’s time to revitalize Erin with a wider tax base in the industrial sector, also in tourism.”
Lou Maieron would bring experience to County
As published in the Erin Advocate - written by the candidate
I’m Lou Maieron, current Mayor, seeking election to Wellington County Council. I bring the experience, expertise & leadership needed to assist our new Mayor/Council
Serving as your Mayor, has been challenging but productive. Taxpayers elected a Mayor for change but also the same stale council, lacking new ideas & resistant to changes/improvements. Council’s been somewhat negative and there’s much misinformation about me purposely bandied about.
I’m Lou Maieron, current Mayor, seeking election to Wellington County Council. I bring the experience, expertise & leadership needed to assist our new Mayor/Council
Serving as your Mayor, has been challenging but productive. Taxpayers elected a Mayor for change but also the same stale council, lacking new ideas & resistant to changes/improvements. Council’s been somewhat negative and there’s much misinformation about me purposely bandied about.
Being the Mayor for change that you voted for, I identified inadequacies and brought forward new ideas/solutions. It’s not been easy. I honoured my promise to the taxpayer & worked for your benefit. I have provided the leadership promised. Change is difficult when it challenges a culture of entitlement; it’s been a struggle bringing forth positive change, as I’m only 1 vote in a 5 member Council.
Every election I’ve campaigned on a platform, few candidates do, as accountability then applies. I’m results based and stand on my record. SSMP - completed. Ambulance service improved as promised & operates from Hillsburgh fire station. The Town’s corporate strategic plan- completed. The Ec.dev. Strategy initiated & the Ec.dev. Committee ToR approved for restructuring/restarting the committee.
A Re-Use/Recycle centre in principal is supported by both Town & County; I pledge to create this centre, generating revenues to fund local improvement projects. Additional rural garbage collection- in progress. Significant corporate/benefactor support for community swimming pool existed – unfortunately NO Council support. A Town-wide road paving plan begins with 17SR. I was Open, Transparent and Accountable - lavish staff retirement parties at public expense -Stopped.
The needed Town Operational Review, as promised is started. “Celebrate Erin” a Mayoral initiative recognizing volunteers donated $15,000.00+ to Erin’s foodbank. Mayor inspired, 120 acres corporate donation to CVC, protecting Credit headwaters, 40 acres to the Town for sportsfields. Taxpayer cost - $2.00.
New Hillsburgh Library scheduled for 2016. China trade mission encouraging Ec.dev. & Agricultural trade. County controlled spending, averaging a 2.5% increase annually, we can do better.
If elected County Councillor; Pledge fair & adequate County services returned for Erin taxes paid, County Operational review is required. Will continue opposing the $1.5 million County imposed donation on Erin taxpayers for hospitals. The province funds hospitals!
I’m a farmer bringing common sense & practicalities to County Council, please compare my brochure to other candidates, then decide. With a supportive, less quarrelsome Council much more could have been achieved.
For Common Sense Leadership .......vote Lou Maieron - County Councillor. Questions/offers of support -519-833-2559/ loumaieron@hotmail.ca.
Every election I’ve campaigned on a platform, few candidates do, as accountability then applies. I’m results based and stand on my record. SSMP - completed. Ambulance service improved as promised & operates from Hillsburgh fire station. The Town’s corporate strategic plan- completed. The Ec.dev. Strategy initiated & the Ec.dev. Committee ToR approved for restructuring/restarting the committee.
A Re-Use/Recycle centre in principal is supported by both Town & County; I pledge to create this centre, generating revenues to fund local improvement projects. Additional rural garbage collection- in progress. Significant corporate/benefactor support for community swimming pool existed – unfortunately NO Council support. A Town-wide road paving plan begins with 17SR. I was Open, Transparent and Accountable - lavish staff retirement parties at public expense -Stopped.
The needed Town Operational Review, as promised is started. “Celebrate Erin” a Mayoral initiative recognizing volunteers donated $15,000.00+ to Erin’s foodbank. Mayor inspired, 120 acres corporate donation to CVC, protecting Credit headwaters, 40 acres to the Town for sportsfields. Taxpayer cost - $2.00.
New Hillsburgh Library scheduled for 2016. China trade mission encouraging Ec.dev. & Agricultural trade. County controlled spending, averaging a 2.5% increase annually, we can do better.
If elected County Councillor; Pledge fair & adequate County services returned for Erin taxes paid, County Operational review is required. Will continue opposing the $1.5 million County imposed donation on Erin taxpayers for hospitals. The province funds hospitals!
I’m a farmer bringing common sense & practicalities to County Council, please compare my brochure to other candidates, then decide. With a supportive, less quarrelsome Council much more could have been achieved.
For Common Sense Leadership .......vote Lou Maieron - County Councillor. Questions/offers of support -519-833-2559/ loumaieron@hotmail.ca.
September 24, 2014
Matt Sammut seeks funding partnerships
Matt Sammut wants to build partnerships with senior governments, as well as developers and private investors, to make sure the burden of new servicing in Erin does not fall on local taxpayers.
As a former banker and now president of his own investment advice business, he believes he can help the Town create a winning strategy. He has also served on the Liaison Committee on urban servicing, representing Concerned Erin Citizens.
“We need to crystalize a brilliant vision for Erin, and re-invent it as a place that people want to come to,” he said. “We have to create the vision together, and politicians have to drive it.”
He says the Strategic Plan recently adopted by Town Council is a good start, but that it still needs an over-arching vision. That could mean a short list of goals, such as becoming known as a tourist destination, a retirement community and a welcoming place for small businesses.
He says the Town needs to find alternative sources of revenue, control expenses and tax increases, and allow moderate growth, while preserving the attractive small-town environment.
“If we don’t change, we will continue with a worsening economy. Industry does not want to come here, property values are going down and there are few services for taxpayers. If we can’t be big, let’s maximize what we have.”
He said “in a perfect world”, everyone would have sewer servicing, but that it may not be feasible. Servicing should be done for those who really need it, but some existing or new homes could still be on modern septic systems, he said. He will consider alternative technologies and is open to privatization of some public services.
He envisions a strategy in which the Town decides where it wants new homes, and then negotiates with developers.
“Why go through an Environmental Assessment until we know what we want. Let’s do our homework first. Let the developers pay for the EA.”
He believes that if we cultivate relationships with people in the federal and provincial governments, and present plans to make Erin a major asset within the regional economy, we will get the funding we need for improvements.
He favours incentives for businesses to improve their properties, wants a by-pass route for transport trucks and hopes to provide better public access to the river. Under the right conditions, local people will be willing to invest their money in the community, he said. For those struggling financially, he does not want to see new costs from the Town make things more difficult.
“We have to ensure that these people are protected.”
Josie Wintersinger says progress being made
As published in the Erin Advocate
Josie Wintersinger hopes that the next Council will be supported with more public participation in decisions that affect the Town’s future.
She is running for re-election, and is pleased with Erin’s accomplishments in the last four years, despite extensive efforts spent by council and staff in dealing with questions raised by Mayor Lou Maieron.
“It was a very difficult term,” she said. “Council worked quite well together and tried very hard to keep frustrations under wraps.”
She and her husband have operated a tree farm in the Town since 1983. She is happy with the new fire station in Hillsburgh, the Skatepark, the Five-Year Capital Budget process and the decision to accept the Servicing and Settlement Plan recommendations, moving forward with further study of sewage options.
“You can’t just say ‘No sewage’, but there’s great concern about how it can be done. We have to look at new technologies,” she said. While uncertain if all urban homes should be brought onto a sewer system, she said first priority should be given to homes that really need the service and that the Town should provide low-cost loans to spread out the cost.
She believes it was proper to complete the Strategic Plan before starting the Operational Review, and is determined to start that review immediately.
While unable to fulfill her goal of more affordable housing for seniors and young families, she plans to keep pushing the issue. She also hopes people will be willing to get involved with advisory committees such as Environment and Economic Development, which have fallen apart due to volunteer burnout and uncertainty about their role.
“Continuity is important,” she said. “We need brainstorming on a wider scale. We have not been welcoming to new businesses. We have been putting up roadblocks, and it’s got to stop.”
With substantial industries unlikely to come to Erin, she favours promoting small business growth, but points out that market forces affecting the community are not under the Town’s control.
She feels that Centre 2000 is not being put to effective use and wants to see more programs for young people, with partnerships between the Town, the School Board and local community groups.
On a County issue, she believes that the new library planned for Hillsburgh is not needed, and that the money could be better spent on other things.
Josie Wintersinger hopes that the next Council will be supported with more public participation in decisions that affect the Town’s future.
She is running for re-election, and is pleased with Erin’s accomplishments in the last four years, despite extensive efforts spent by council and staff in dealing with questions raised by Mayor Lou Maieron.
“It was a very difficult term,” she said. “Council worked quite well together and tried very hard to keep frustrations under wraps.”
She and her husband have operated a tree farm in the Town since 1983. She is happy with the new fire station in Hillsburgh, the Skatepark, the Five-Year Capital Budget process and the decision to accept the Servicing and Settlement Plan recommendations, moving forward with further study of sewage options.
“You can’t just say ‘No sewage’, but there’s great concern about how it can be done. We have to look at new technologies,” she said. While uncertain if all urban homes should be brought onto a sewer system, she said first priority should be given to homes that really need the service and that the Town should provide low-cost loans to spread out the cost.
She believes it was proper to complete the Strategic Plan before starting the Operational Review, and is determined to start that review immediately.
While unable to fulfill her goal of more affordable housing for seniors and young families, she plans to keep pushing the issue. She also hopes people will be willing to get involved with advisory committees such as Environment and Economic Development, which have fallen apart due to volunteer burnout and uncertainty about their role.
“Continuity is important,” she said. “We need brainstorming on a wider scale. We have not been welcoming to new businesses. We have been putting up roadblocks, and it’s got to stop.”
With substantial industries unlikely to come to Erin, she favours promoting small business growth, but points out that market forces affecting the community are not under the Town’s control.
She feels that Centre 2000 is not being put to effective use and wants to see more programs for young people, with partnerships between the Town, the School Board and local community groups.
On a County issue, she believes that the new library planned for Hillsburgh is not needed, and that the money could be better spent on other things.
John Brennan stresses council experience
As published in the Erin Advocate
Councillor John Brennan is happy that Town Council was able to accomplish some of its goals in the past term, despite the frequent controversies, and he’s hoping to provide some stability to make the next council more effective.
“We’ve spent far too much time rehashing the past,” he said. “There has been a high level of hostility. We need to spend more time working for the future.”
The eight-year veteran is seeking re-election with a platform of fundamental values. These include protecting the quality of life, clean water and air, and maintaining a sustainable community where young adults and retired seniors can afford to live.
He wants decisions made locally wherever possible and a council that can work cooperatively. He favours sound fiscal management, efficient use of resources and “informed strategic planning so we can take advantage of future opportunities and effectively deal with future adversities.”
He is supporting Allan Alls for mayor and Alls is backing him as a voice of experience. “A combination of new ideas and experience makes council more effective in a shorter time frame,” said Brennan.
He is pleased to have worked in support of the Equine Task Force. He’s disappointed that residents were not willing to come forward to serve on the Economic Development Committee, but he has pushed for a new staff person who will help focus efforts to not only attract businesses, but to retain and expand the ones we have.
He’s not happy that the SSMP took so long, but supports continuing the Environmental Assessment process to learn all the costs and technical options for sewers, and wants to start lobbying for grants.
He is concerned about the residents whose lots are too small for modern septic systems, and about those on fixed incomes who can’t afford major additional costs. He is open to building sewers in stages and the possibility of a Public-Private Partnership.
He supports the new Strategic Plan and hopes that the Operational Review will ensure that tax dollars are spent efficiently. The review should “invigorate the people who work here, and help provide a higher level of customer service”.
He has served on the Grand River Conservation board of directors and in the next term hopes to be appointed as the Town of Erin representative on the Credit Valley Conservation board.
He has also put a lot of effort into the Green Legacy Program that has provided 40,000 trees to Erin residents, and served as the Erin representative with Hills of Headwaters Tourism.
He is supporting Allan Alls for mayor and Alls is backing him as a voice of experience. “A combination of new ideas and experience makes council more effective in a shorter time frame,” said Brennan.
He is pleased to have worked in support of the Equine Task Force. He’s disappointed that residents were not willing to come forward to serve on the Economic Development Committee, but he has pushed for a new staff person who will help focus efforts to not only attract businesses, but to retain and expand the ones we have.
He’s not happy that the SSMP took so long, but supports continuing the Environmental Assessment process to learn all the costs and technical options for sewers, and wants to start lobbying for grants.
He is concerned about the residents whose lots are too small for modern septic systems, and about those on fixed incomes who can’t afford major additional costs. He is open to building sewers in stages and the possibility of a Public-Private Partnership.
He supports the new Strategic Plan and hopes that the Operational Review will ensure that tax dollars are spent efficiently. The review should “invigorate the people who work here, and help provide a higher level of customer service”.
He has served on the Grand River Conservation board of directors and in the next term hopes to be appointed as the Town of Erin representative on the Credit Valley Conservation board.
He has also put a lot of effort into the Green Legacy Program that has provided 40,000 trees to Erin residents, and served as the Erin representative with Hills of Headwaters Tourism.
Craig Porterfield wants citizen participation
As published in the Erin Advocate - written by the candidate
I have lived in the SW Town of Erin for 25 years with my wife and two now grown children. I have worked as an environmentalist, a teacher, and a surveyor, but for the past 25 years I have owned an Industrial Automation business. This is my second election for Council; even though I was unsuccessful, I sat on the Environment Advisory Committee for 3 years and the Center 2000 Committee for 4 years.
I have lived in the SW Town of Erin for 25 years with my wife and two now grown children. I have worked as an environmentalist, a teacher, and a surveyor, but for the past 25 years I have owned an Industrial Automation business. This is my second election for Council; even though I was unsuccessful, I sat on the Environment Advisory Committee for 3 years and the Center 2000 Committee for 4 years.
During my tenure on these committees, I became convinced of their value for citizen participation in government, however their efficacy can be improved, and if elected I will do so. I was disheartened by the discord amongst the Council and Staff, however, and pledge to regain the symbiotic relationship between these pillars of our government.
This must be done soon, because momentous decisions are looming for Erin. The SSMP report has been tabled, and the next step will determine development and tax burdens for years to come. Other issues facing the Town that are just as crucial is the Fill bylaw, which is critical to our rural way of life and environment, and limiting rural development which threatens to change our economic base in ways we cannot predict. Development must be done according to the rules and regulations, and not impede the neighbours reasonable expectation of enjoyment of their own properties.
We have little control over other more macro issues affecting our Town. Some experts say extreme weather events will continue; whether global warming is the culprit is open to discussion. What is clear is that the Town needs to prepare itself for weather emergencies. The Towns response to the ice storm, especially in the rural areas, was inadequate. Emergency communications and location of warming centers were not communicated in a timely fashion. I hope to change that.
Whether or not climate change is the culprit, a change from consumer to conserver societies is the only way to reduce energy use. The Town needs to be a leader in conservation, and audit energy use. Monitoring use in Town buildings, reducing idling in Town trucks, and judicious use of resources will all help. Citizens can do more; so many of us commute I would like to see bus service to the Acton GO train. Generation of renewable energy locally is preferable to the grid.
Support me (or not), but vote on October 27
This must be done soon, because momentous decisions are looming for Erin. The SSMP report has been tabled, and the next step will determine development and tax burdens for years to come. Other issues facing the Town that are just as crucial is the Fill bylaw, which is critical to our rural way of life and environment, and limiting rural development which threatens to change our economic base in ways we cannot predict. Development must be done according to the rules and regulations, and not impede the neighbours reasonable expectation of enjoyment of their own properties.
We have little control over other more macro issues affecting our Town. Some experts say extreme weather events will continue; whether global warming is the culprit is open to discussion. What is clear is that the Town needs to prepare itself for weather emergencies. The Towns response to the ice storm, especially in the rural areas, was inadequate. Emergency communications and location of warming centers were not communicated in a timely fashion. I hope to change that.
Whether or not climate change is the culprit, a change from consumer to conserver societies is the only way to reduce energy use. The Town needs to be a leader in conservation, and audit energy use. Monitoring use in Town buildings, reducing idling in Town trucks, and judicious use of resources will all help. Citizens can do more; so many of us commute I would like to see bus service to the Acton GO train. Generation of renewable energy locally is preferable to the grid.
Support me (or not), but vote on October 27
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