Ward 1: Picton
Stephanie Bell
No bio provided
Ray Hobson
No bio provided
Kate MacNaughton
PERSONAL BACKGROUND/FAMILY/JOB/HOBBIES: I’m a supply teacher and small-business operator in Picton. I live here, work here and play here. I have a wide range of interests that lead me in all sorts of directions including textile work, music, carving, gardening, reading, and volunteering as well as civic participation. I live in Picton with my daughter and a number of critters. We moved from Hallowell to town three years ago and have never looked back.
PREVIOUS POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: I’ve never held any sort of public office. I’m a civic-minded person – involved in local social and environmental issues for years – and have always tried to be informed, active and of use to my community.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS POSITION? There were so many reasons to run. Here are just a couple…
I love The County and love my town. I have been involved in municipal matters for years and I am alarmed at the lack of diversity on PEC’s council – for example, right now, it’s only 12% women. This year, I worked on a project to develop more broad and diverse interest in running for council. It had limited success so…here I am. Be the change, right? I want our local government to be an honest and approachable council of fellow residents. I also want it to better reflect our population. Diversity in government helps to enrich public dialogue always. I want my daughter to see diversity in leadership at all levels of government as her worldview expands. I want her and her cohort to know that they CAN have a seat at the table, not just a 12% share.
Another reason I’m running is to find housing solutions. The County is in the middle of a rapid flux that has created a housing crunch that is tough on young people, seniors, families etc.. The changes we’re seeing have been great for businesses. They have helped to put Prince Edward County on the world map as an destination. But it has been a struggle for many who are being priced out. I hear about the strain all over The County. We need those people. Businesses need staff, stores need year-round shoppers, schools need students and we all need neighbours. I want to help create ways to address the crisis so that our towns and villages can be real, viable, four-season communities for generations to come, not holiday,off-season ghost towns.
There are other reasons to run that I’m passionate about -several- but those are the two that first struck the match.
Mark Rose
Mark Rose
PERSONAL BACKGROUND/FAMILY/JOB/HOBBIES: Raised on a dairy farm in Waupoos, I’m a 9th Generation United Empire Loyalist here. The first generation built the Rose House Museum. The family sold the farm and moved to Picton in 1996 and that’s where I have lived most of my adult life (I’m 37). My education and career are in business, I’m an account executive for an advanced safety awareness training company based in Belleville. My hobbies include spending as much time as I can with my three nephews and my wonderful girlfriend Sarah. I enjoy the standard outdoors stuff; camping, paddleboarding; getting away from the world for a weekend here or there. I’m also a geek for baseball. Big Jays fan and baseball nerd in general.
PREVIOUS POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: None, though I follow in my mother and grand mother’s footsteps here; they held councillor/deputy reeve positions pre-Amalgamation and have always been active in the community.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS POSITION? This place is in my bones. I feel like its an important to get more involved and give back more to the community that helped raise me.
In the past 20 years, we’ve seen The County grow leaps and bounds. It’s important to continue to grow on that momentum. We also need to acknowledge and respect our past. I believe there is harmony to be found in embracing and celebrating The County’s rich history while continuing to grow as a community. We can listen to both old and new ideas, alike.
I’m passionate about The County and care deeply about its future. I want to raise a family here. I know the obstacles on the road ahead. And I know that strong communities require leaders who can get things done. With the world turning upside down, it’s no longer an option for my generation to sit on the sidelines. It’s time for us to step up and get more involved. Even if I don’t win, hopefully I can motivate someone else to take that leap at some point.
Phil St. Jean
Phil St. Jean
PERSONAL BACKGROUND/FAMILY/JOB/HOBBIES: We are very fortunate to call Picton and Prince Edward County our home. My wife and I chose to stay here to earn a living and raise a family when so many people our age moved away. It wasn’t the easiest choice but it certainly was the right one for us.
I understand how difficult it can be to live and work here. For several years I worked many different jobs until an opportunity presented itself. I purchased a restaurant on Picton Main Street and operated it for 7 years. I got involved with the Picton BIA and was secretary/treasurer, representing the interests of business owners in Picton. I have experienced first-hand the challenges faced by Picton retailers in times of economic uncertainty and how they work within our seasonal economy.
I sold the restaurant 15 years ago. I retrained and I have been successfully self-employed as a residential building contractor, specializing in interior finishing and renovations for over 11 years.
PREVIOUS POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: I have a proven track record with over 25 years of working with and for the community I have called home my entire life. I will always make my decisions based on input from and in the best interests of our community.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS POSITION? Almost everyone is having difficulty coping with the high cost of municipal services, the rate at which our taxes keep going up and seeing very little effective forward planning with respect to rebuilding municipal reserves and infrastructure.
We need to change how we do business in Prince Edward County. A strong healthy community and local economy is possible if we plan for and implement sound fiscal and community based processes.
I support a budget process that ties budget increases to cost of living increases plus the annual growth in assessment.
I support a transient accommodation tax for short term rentals.
I support new ways to raise municipal revenues (that do not negatively affect residents) such as increasing grants in lieu of taxes that the province pays for Sandbanks or instituting a shared gate system at Sandbanks and North Beach Parks.
We must implement plans and procedures to address the extreme shortage of affordable housing now not in 4 years.
A lot of our social and economic issues in PEC are intertwined. It will take creative, thoughtful people to resolve them. I am one of those people !
We must elect forward thinking, proactive municipal leaders who will work hard make positive change happen.
Barry Turpin
No bio provided
Ward 2: Bloomfield/Hallowell
Gord Fox
Gord Fox
PERSONAL BACKGROUND/FAMILY/JOB/HOBBIES: I was born and raised on a county farm (County Road #1, presently TerraCello Winery). Bloomfield was an important part of my early farming life for groceries (Moores), meats (DeMille), the hardware store for farm supplies and of course my very first haircut. I have lived and worked in other cities in Ontario and the United States but returned to my roots where I built my home on Glenora Rd, Loyalist Parkway and enjoyed a successful career. I attended Prince Edward Collegiate and Loyalist College graduating with the Developmental Service Worker Certificate and was employed by the Community and Social Services department of the Provincial Government. I spent twenty eight years working with and providing services to developmentally handicapped persons at Prince Edward Heights and in the community. After retirement I entered into local politics.
In my off time I play a little golf but my real passion is sailing and especially sailboat racing. I am a member of the Picton Golf and Country Club and the Prince Edward Yacht Club. I was a member of the board for the golf club and I am a past commodore of PEYC. I am a life member of the Canadian Power and Sail Squadron have taught boating safety courses through our local squadron.
PREVIOUS POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Councillor Hallowell Ward 6, 2000 – 2006, Councillor Hallowell Ward 6, 2014 – 2018, Member Prince Edward Lennox and Addington Social Services Committee, Chair PELASS – 2014, Chair – Affordable Housing Committee – 2017, Member (Chair) Finance Audit Committee, Member Library Board, 2017 – 2018, Finance Committee member, Member Hasting Prince Edward Health Unit, 2016 – 2018, Governance Committee member, Member Development Framework Committee, 2017, Member Affordable Housing Committee, 2018
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS POSITION? Today, culture, entertainment, accommodation and food combined make up the major labour force in the county. There is a definite link back to economic development, wine industry investment, county brewing companies, building permit increases, tourism visits have increased and money has been invested in various revitalization projects. The introduction of high speed internet services has made it possible for families to enjoy the bucolic lifestyle while staying connected to their livelihood. The Arts Community is very active and council needs to recognize and support this important economic driver. But let us not forget the important role that agriculture has played in the past and will continue to play in the future.
But, change is a constant and there are some projects that I would like to see thru to fruition. We need to continue the work on the Developmental Framework Committee (working with developers), continue to work towards Affordable/Attainable Housing ( funds established, partnership with Love Song), build on the accomplishments of our Economic Development Commission, the Grant Program to assist farmers and complete the water/wastewater study in Wellington. Improvements to our customer service to facilitate the planning approval process and investigating the regulation of short term accommodations (AirB&B’s & Vacation rentals) already in progress are important to the future prosperity of our county.
All of these issue will have an impact on our employment concerns and help make the county an affordable option for our youth and others who want to call the county home.
As your Council representative your continued support is greatly appreciated. I will continue to apply my knowledge and skills to your service. I enjoy my work as a councillor and together we can build a community for all to enjoy.
Gil Leclerc
Gil Leclerc
PERSONAL BACKGROUND/FAMILY/JOB/HOBBIES: I am a father of one son with my wife Diana and I live in Bloomfield. I have lived in Ward 2 for the past 12 years and own the business – Green Gables in Bloomfield with my wife Diana. I have 25 years banking experience with Commercial Businesses which means I am used to understanding complex financial management of large corporations such as the County and the issues that impact the desired results. I have a Consulting Practice where I help businesses solve their issues, change and grow.
I have an MBA in finance and have worked with many companies the size of the County (and larger) to help build a better future for all the stake holders.
PREVIOUS POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Former President of the Chamber of Commerce for three years and former Commissioner and Vice Chair of The EConomic Development Commission for PEC
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS POSITION? I think my background, experience and education in understanding and solving complex issues along with my knowledge of the County and management of Council ideally suit me to be a Councillor with the capability of a fresh look at ongoing problems.
Brad Nieman
Brad Nieman
PERSONAL BACKGROUND/FAMILY/JOB/HOBBIES: 25 years in municipal government(water/wastewater), diploma in municipal mngt., certificate in mediation and negotiating, first term councillor in P.E.C., Currently utilities supervisor for Loyalist Twsp. Married to Tracy father of four and grandfather of eights. Lived in P.E.C. for over 40 years
PREVIOUS POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Currently sitting on first term of P.E.C. council
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS POSITION? I believe that on this present term of council I have proven that I have based all of my decisions on the best interest of the county. I have shown honesty and reliability to my constituents. I believe that with my experience and education I have a lot to bring to the horseshoe.
Phil Prinzen
Phil Prinzen
PERSONAL BACKGROUND/FAMILY/JOB/HOBBIES: Born and raised in Prince Edward County. I am a 39 year old dairy farmer. Married to my wife Selena for 15 years and have 2 beautiful daughters one 12 and one is 8.
PREVIOUS POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: None
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS POSITION? I am running because I believe that the decisions made today affect us now and affect our children in the future and I would like to have an impact on those decisions. I think the time is right for me to give back to this county and make this a great place for our residents as well as the people who love to visit this beautiful place. I am also running to have a young agricultural impact around the horseshoe. I consider myself fairly young and energetic and enjoy working through challenges for the betterment of our community. I believe that I would bring a new voice and a new vision to the municipality with strong principles in accountability, transparency and integrity. I am truly committed to the community and am very open and approachable.
There are a lot of priorities for the elected councillors to discuss and make decisions on. Healthcare in our community is likely the biggest priority for everyone in the area. We need healthcare here for our residents and visitors and I think we can all agree how important it is for our area Roads and property taxes would be close to the top as well as it is something that affects each and every one of us everyday Agriculture would be another one of my top 5 priorities as it is what I am involved in everyday and it is a driver of jobs and strong communities. Agriculture of all types and now the expanded agri-tourism industry which has really taken off the last 4-5 years. Housing, or the lack of affordable housing is close to the top of the list as we need homes for the people who work here, as well to strengthen our schools and communities. Waterworks rates need to be affordable as well for our residents and transit, although not affecting everyone, needs to be explored for those that need it.
Ward 3: Wellington
Jim Dunlop
No bio provided
Mike Harper
Mike Harper
PERSONAL BACKGROUND/FAMILY/JOB/HOBBIES: Grew up in Kitchener and have a BA and MA from University of Western Ontario, with a specialization in program and policy evaluation. My spouse Heather Ford and I bought a place in Picton 15 years ago. We have lived in Wellington the past 12 years. I have worked in Toronto for 35 years in various capacities: pollster, group meeting facilitator, and advertising strategist before retiring last year to focus on community volunteerism and preparation for this election. Community volunteer work: Treasurer, Wellington recreation committee; newscaster 99.3 County FM
Hobbies: auto racing, travel, crime novels
PREVIOUS POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: None
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS POSITION? I first started thinking about running due to some questionable decisions by our current and past councils: $1mm rehabilitation of Union road – a little used road when other, more pressing road work was and still is needed. Demolition of church on Picton main St., an important asset, and now an empty lot. Planned demolition of old building on main intersection of Wellington (corner of Wharf and Main St.). Total disregard for urban planning principles and town’s secondary plan. This led to a sense of civic duty and the feeling that I should step up given the complex decisions that lie ahead. Our local economy is changing rapidly. Tourism, weekenders, and retirees have brought many good things to the County. But it’s also created challenges: lack of affordable housing, infrastructure problems (Water rates & pressure, quality of roads), need for public transit, the need to regulate short term accommodation (STA) rentals and pedestrian safety and summertime congestion.
The other main reason I’m running is the desire for a new challenge: I had a good career, but it’s time to move on. Entering public service, and bringing my strategic planning and marketing background to the table, seems like a good way to finish up my working life.
Brent Kleinsteuber
No bio provided
Ward 4: Ameliasburgh
Andreas Bolik
Andreas Bolik
PERSONAL BACKGROUND/FAMILY/JOB/HOBBIES: Spent 37 years serving his country in uniform. Born in Toronto, he spent most of his formative years in the Georgian Bay area of Penetanguishene. He went to Ryerson for his undergrad in Aerospace Engineering. He was a reservist at the time, and after school transferred to the regular force where he spent the next 24 years serving around Canada and overseas. During that time he switched his focus to law and went to law school at the University of British Columbia. Has lived in the County for nine years and has a small hobby farm on Rednersville Road with his wife and two kids.
PREVIOUS POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Being in uniform precluded him running for council in the past. Now as a reservist, his main job is to assist soldiers legally with courts-martial, and he has cleared all the conflict of interest issues to run. He is not running as a military member, he is running as a resident of Prince Edward County and strictly in his civilian capacity. His past experiences dealing with a myriad of different scenarios in the service has given him the opportunity to think on his feet, and act on things with confidence.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS POSITION? He has spoken to many residents, and their two main issues are taxes and infrastructure. Residents of Ward 4 want to make sure their voices are heard in Picton. Has noticed that Ameliasburgh residents feel isolated and that their concerns may not be heard as loudly as ones from Picton or Wellington, where the population density is greater.“We need to work as a community. Some people in Ward Four are concerned that Picton is happy to take their money but not so happy to address their problems.” He wants to make sure that the residents of Ameliasburgh feel confident about their voice being heard around the horseshoe. Wants to serve his community by being a voice for the people in Ameliasburgh. A team player who looks to cooperate with other council members to build a strategic vision for the County, while ensuring that the interests of Ameliasburgh residents are well represented.
Paul Boyd
No bio provided
Tim Fellows
Tim Fellows
For 20 years been in the Rednersville area. Have seen changes, new road,new houses two new stores in Rosemore area. Driving for St John ambulance for ten yrs. Taxi in Trenton, New School buses going to Toronto and areas. Became a certified backhoe operator and a certified fork lift operator. If anyone needs a left or a hole dug transport kids or ill people is a few areas. On the side been a contractor fixing houses. Repairing roofs , doors, windows, sinks.
You need a double income to live in Ontario. As for factory buildings, make one that makes wine bottles. We have a high demand for it. Build some e-scooters. Build a factory to make all the replacement batteries. Some E-bikes needs replacement batteries, each one is $100. You save gas but now need new batteries to keep going. Put some bypass outside lanes on the south side down Hwy. 33; I slowed down to turn lift on to Victoria street. People driving behind me went to the gravel side to pass me. There’s four other roads with the same issue. Going north bound put a short right hand lane on each one.
Work on a solution to make taxes of the B&B people that make money from outside the area . With all the B&Bs the hotels will lose income. They all pay their responsibilities.
Janice Maynard
No bio provided
Michael McLeod
Mike McLeod
PERSONAL BACKGROUND/FAMILY/JOB/HOBBIES: I graduated from York University with an honours degree in Geography and Urban Studies and received my regulatory studies certificate from Michigan State University. I have almost 40 years of senior level experience with a career that has included working in the Ontario government with the ministries of Natural Resources, Environment and the Ontario Energy Board, private business and as a volunteer in community service in the Quinte region including my current role as President of Highland Shores Children’s Aid Society.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS POSITION? I am running for County council for the following reasons: Although this is my first time running for a council seat, politics has always fascinated me especially because it is so tied to where and why people live where they do. Prince Edward County is home to my family and we, as a family, are invested in the County – in how it operates and what it does as a municipality. In recent years, I’ve become increasingly concerned with the fiscal management of the County and the escalating costs that it seems to have great difficulty in controlling given our small population base and big geography. So, for me the time is right to run for council. I believe my career background, education and experience provides me with the right skill-set to be an effective County councillor and to work in the best interests of our residents and businesses. We have a lot of issues to tackle in the County including infrastructure, housing, the new hospital and social services. These are not discrete issues, but must be dealt with in an orderly and thoughtful manner. I want to ensure council makes decisions based on the best available information at all times. I am very interested that we have a County council that provides strong governance oversight and can speak with a common voice that is in the best interests of the people of the County.
With all the advantages Prince Edward County has, we must continue to make every effort to attract investment and drive revenue into the County – It is essential for our future.
Bill McMahon
Bill McMahon
PERSONAL BACKGROUND/FAMILY/JOB/HOBBIES: I am a husband, and father, retired businessman, volunteer and community activist, and believe I’ve demonstrated that I possess the experience, enthusiasm and qualifications required to shape a more sustainable, cost-effective and skillfully governed Prince Edward County. I was born in Glasgow, Scotland, and raised in downtown Toronto from age 5. My wife Paulina and I have lived in Consecon since 1999. I am passionate about Prince Edward County and cherish the way of life it has afforded my family. My love for the County has grown stronger year upon year, and my commitment to the values of tolerance and compassion are especially evident through my many years as a volunteer in the County generally, and Consecon/Ameliasburgh specifically. Now in my 20th year in Consecon, my community involvement over the past 10 years has been multifaceted, and as such I believe that I understand how to successfully lead, manage and obtain results from small, large, and complex organizations. I have championed the causes of such organizations as (CARA) Consecon and Area Ratepayers Association Inc. where I served as Vice President for 2 years as well as a 4 year term as President, the Ameliasburgh Ward 4 Recreation Committee, the Size of Council Citizens Assembly, The Friends of the Museums of Prince Edward County – Magical History Tour Car Rally, Prince Edward County Historical Society – Diamond Jubilee Committee, Hillier Ward – West End Junction Committee. Volunteer newscaster at 99.3 COUNTYFM, The Voice of the County. I am Past President of (PECT) Prince Edward Community Theatre, and currently serve as Chair of the Consecon, Downtown Revitalization Sub-committee, I remain a member of CARA, Theatre Ontario, Friends of Wellers Bay and am an associate member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 509, Consecon.
PREVIOUS POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: I have not served in any political office.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS POSITION? I’m running because we need fresh ideas, creative solutions and bold progressive vision at Shire Hall. I’m running for Council, because I wish to serve my community, to provide good leadership, to plan and build for the future. I’m running because I believe I have a contribution to make, ideas to be shared, passion that won’t abate and a commitment to do the right thing no matter what. I understand that I might have to sacrifice my leisure and family time, and that I might sometimes have to make decisions that benefit the community as a whole but don’t benefit you personally. I’m running because I care. I’m running for Council to ensure that The County will be what it has always been – and much more.
It’s about what I see as taking the next step in community building, leveraging the professional and volunteer experience I have and bringing a new perspective to the table. As a Councillor I would have many touch points in people’s lives and have the ability to encourage and facilitate making The County even stronger. This is something I am passionate about. As Councillor, I would be in a position where I would have the most direct impact on people’s everyday lives than any other position in public office. This means I could affect and influence many opportunities to strengthen the community as a whole. I would be able to connect people, organizations, businesses, community groups to each other so they can share their strengths and their knowledge. I want to be a part of building community relationships.
Regardless of the election outcome, I will remain committed to the values of tolerance and compassion, and will continue to work tirelessly to ensure those values are incorporated into the civic life of the County.
Roy Pennell
No bio provided
Terry Shortt
PERSONAL BACKGROUND/FAMILY/JOB/HOBBIES: Lifetime resident. Married 42 years, three children, two grandchildren. Started, owned and operated Terry Shortt Electrical Services Ltd. from 1987 to present. Music – Play with a band called Long Reach. Sail, motorcycle
PREVIOUS POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Four terms, one as township councillor and three as county councillor
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS POSITION? The County is at a crossroads as far as retaining community as its primary focus or becoming more of a commercial commodity!
I feel our strength is as a community and will work to protect us from over commercialization.
We are also in the enviable position for the first time in 15 years to have our elected provincial representative be part of the elected provincial government!
Hopefully this will lend itself to a co-operative approach to resolve some of our long standing issues which we haven’t been able to obtain closure for because of the need for Provincial assistance.
Ward5: Athol
Nicola Chapman
No bio provided
Jamie Forrester
No bio provided
Bob Rogers
Bob Rogers
PERSONAL BACKGROUND/FAMILY/JOB/HOBBIES: I have lived in the County for 45 years. I have been a self-employed mechanic, a service manager for a farm equipment dealer and a farmer. I raised my family here and my children still live here. One is employed in the hospitality industry, another in viticulture. I know the community well, and I know the importance of our two main economic drivers, agriculture and tourism. I also know the struggles of young families trying to find employment and housing here. I am fascinated with history and consider myself an amateur historian. I have been a Director on the Prince Edward Rod and Gun Club for the past six years, promoting safe and controlled use of firearms.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS POSITION? I was motivated to run in this election because I feel we need to take new approaches to solving our problems. We are a small municipality with a very small tax base, struggling to address large issues, such as deteriorating infrastructure, lack of affordable housing, lack of employment. Although previous councils have all grappled with these issues, and have taken some good actions to alleviate them, the progress has been slow and the results even slower. We need to do things differently and take some bold actions or nothing will change. I believe, that with fresh ideas, we can leverage our tremendous assets to become a sustainable community.
Ward 6: Sophiasburgh
Bill Roberts (acclaimed)
Ward 7: Hillier
Angie Baldwin
Angie Baldwin
PERSONAL BACKGROUND/FAMILY/JOB/HOBBIES: I was born and raised in Picton. My husband Bob and I have been married for 19 years and we have enjoyed raising our two boys in The County that we have enjoyed growing up in. I am a Production Supervisor at Redpath. My role as a Supervisor has given me the ability to build on my leadership skills, effective listening. I enjoy spending time with family and friends and I hand painting rustic wood signs in my free time.
PREVIOUS POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: I have never held a seat in office or on Council, but I do have some political experience that comes with life skills and my role as a Production Supervisor. Political skill is the ability to gain power and ability needed to achieve goals and objectives. I use political skill every day in my job as a supervisor to achieve my goals and objectives.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS POSITION? I am running for Council because I grew up in The County and would like to see great things happen here, we are in need for change for today and the future of our children. I feel I am now in a position to give back to the community and help make The County a great place to live, work and enjoy. My role as a Production Supervisor has let me build upon my skills which will make me a great Councillor. I am a hard worker, I offer honesty, integrity, an open ear to listen and I follow thru with commitments.
Steve Graham
PERSONAL BACKGROUND/FAMILY/JOB/HOBBIES: Born and raised in Picton having two older brothers, my parents emigrated to Canada from Scotland in the late 60s and settled in PEC to start their family. I have two children; Evan age 8 and Mylee age 6, beautiful supportive wife Jaime. I am the Yacht Club Manager at CFB Trenton Yacht Club which I enjoy very much. My Hobbies include sailing, skiing, travel and volunteering at various community events, spending time with family
PREVIOUS POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Current Municipal Councillor Ward 7 Hillier
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS POSITION? I am running for re-election as Councillor in PEC Hillier ward 7 for a number of reasons. I love to be a part of the decision making process in PEC, I feel having grown up in PEC and also travelling to many other parts of Canada and the rest of the world gives me a good understanding of local and global issues.
I am also running for re-election because I feel there is more that can be accomplished by sitting for a second term. Four years ago when I was elected the job was a lot more than I had expected, I have learned a great deal and grown as a councillor, board member, committee member etc. I also had to balance that with work and family life. That is not always easy but the old saying goes “if you want to get something done, give the job to the busy guy”
I feel the people of Hillier made an investment in me 4 years ago and I have worked hard, I am in tune with our local issues and understand the next steps with regard to the awesome things current council and staff have been working on. Whether it be the new hospital in Picton; affordable housing in Bloomfield and Wellington; roads infrastructure; water/wastewater issues; public beach access; jobs etc.
Hillier residents made an investment in me, and I believe it was a good one. I plan to be a leader with the next group of councillors and help guide us into the future.
I also sit on numerous other committee’s including the Library board, community safety and well-being advisory committee, Hillier recreation committee.
Ernest Margetson
Ernest Margetson
PERSONAL BACKGROUND/FAMILY/JOB/HOBBIES: Born in Prince Edward County, grew up on a mixed farm in Hillier Township, married with two children and living in Hillier Ward. University educated with an Engineering Degree and practicing as a Professional Engineer since 1990.
PREVIOUS POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Although never held political office, I have had many years of working with and for local municipalities. Worked on local projects including the Moira River ice control dams with Qunite Conservation, urban development review for the Bay of Quinte Remedial Action Plan, as a Public Works Engineer for the County of Prince Edward, and a self-employed consultant on numerous projects in Prince Edward County including wineries and large residential and commercial developments. Volunteered with the Heritage Advisory Committee, upgrades to the Hillier Hall, the Quinte Educational Museum, and Prince Edward County Historical Society.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS POSITION? I am running for Council because I believe that with my experience, insight, and knowledge of Hillier and Prince Edward County, I could make a positive contribution to the County Council team. I see my role as Councillor for Hillier Ward as a natural progression from my professional and volunteer work that builds on my municipal experience, and extensive knowledge of the area and community. I welcome the opportunity to play a positive role in community building and expanding my knowledge of public service and municipal affairs.
Ward 8: North Marysburgh
Steward Bailey
No bio provided
David Harrison
David Harrison
PERSONAL BACKGROUND/FAMILY/JOB/HOBBIES: Married father of 2, grandfather. Life Long County Resident. Farmer and Commercial Fisherman. Business Owner and Operator. Interests and Hobbies: Hunting, fishing, pleasure boating and spending time with my family and friends
PREVIOUS POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: 17 years municipal government experience, Councillor, Deputy Reeve, Reeve for North Marysburgh. Served on various provincial boards and associations.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS POSITION? Improve climate for business investment and growth in the County. Work to create more opportunities for youth employment. Implement infrastructure improvements and efficiencies in operating costs. Remain committed to our new hospital build. Continue to support affordable housing initiatives. Apply a common sense approach to use of tax dollars
Ward 9: South Marysburgh
Geoff Church
No bio provided
John Hirsch
John Hirsch
PERSONAL BACKGROUND/FAMILY/JOB/HOBBIES: Retired to the County after a career in Canada Customs, consulting firms and product movement logistics, warehouse management
PREVIOUS POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: None – but I have been in executive positions in many community organizations, residents’ associations, environmental organizations
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS POSITION? The current South Marysburgh Councillor is running for Mayor, leaving a huge void as Steve Ferguson has been an excellent representative. This fact combined with my great interest in the unique natural environment and biodiversity of the South Shore led me to run.
Over the last four years, I have been involved in many organizations and causes affecting South Marysburgh – I am a Board member of: Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory, the County Coalition for Safe and Appropriate Green energy, the South Shore Joint Initiative, Quinte Conservation Authority.
Protection of the County’s South Shore is a key priority for me and many residents of South Marysburgh, so moving up to the next level is a natural progression.
I have also become concerned with the lack of business management expertise on Council. I believe I can make a significant contribution to the efficient and effective running of the County.
Brian Sword
Brian Sword
PERSONAL BACKGROUND/FAMILY/JOB/HOBBIES: I’m a father (to three awesome kids!), husband, filmmaker, podcaster, musician and homeowner in South Marysburgh. I grew up in a small, northern Ontario pulp-and-paper town called Smooth Rock Falls where I had a fantastic childhood. I spent my high-school years in Cobourg before attending the University of Waterloo where I earned my Bachelor of Environmental Studies. I moved to Vancouver in 1997 where I completed my film degree at Capilano University. I have spent the last 15 years working in the film industry in various ways (tv, feature film, corporate, music videos), but also built up and ran my own book store until selling it to another book lover in 2010. Since moving to the County I started County Productions, a video production company specializing in videos for the County and its residents and businesses. My hobbies include podcasting (my show, The Double Stop, has over 100 episodes and counting), playing bass (I’ve been playing for about 30 years so if you’re looking for anyone, give me a call), fishing, and working on my house. Most of all, though, I’ve been enjoying the time with my kids in the Country, providing for them the type of childhood I so adored.
PREVIOUS POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: After years of being an “Armchair Quarterback” when it comes to politics, I decided that the time was right to get involved. My youngest child will be turning three soon, so my time has freed up enough that I can now take a more active role politically.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS POSITION? I love the County and my home in South Maryburgh, having been blessed to find such an amazing place to live and watch my children grow and thrive. I want to make sure that my children and the other children of the County retain it as a place to call home, a place they can afford to live in, with jobs, services, and schools that meet their needs. I believe the way to do that is to ensure that those elected to represent the residents make it a priority to not only look out for the short-term needs of the County, but also the longer-term needs of our children and grandchildren.
It should be no surprise that Prince Edward County is a community in flux, with a rapidly changing identity and demographic. My hope is to ensure that the people who live and work and raise their families here are represented by those elected to represent the long-term health of the County, avoiding decisions that fill the coffers today but leave them empty tomorrow. I am firmly aware that this is a complex issue as we rely upon tourism money for many people’s livelihoods, but I firmly believe we need to ensure that we balance our desire for more tourist dollars with what is best for those who call this wonderful place home. There is an important distinction between outsiders investing in the County and those who use the County for their investments. We need the former, we need to be cautious of the latter.
It is the job of Council to look out for the best interests of all residents of the County, regardless of wealth or status, and I believe I am ready to stand up for our all of our residents.
Elis Ziegler
Elis Ziegler
PERSONAL BACKGROUND/FAMILY/JOB/HOBBIES: I live in Milford in an off-grid house my partner built, where we have created a permaculture environment for food for us and our and honey bees. After 30 years in social service management, I now help County artists and entrepreneurs with promotion, provide beekeeping services for others, and work at Lighthall Vineyards where I’ve learned a lot about the County’s tourism industry. I belong to a South Marysburgh food gardening group, the National Farmers’ Union, both Quinte and Ontario Beekeepers’ Association, and Prince Edward County Arts Council. I volunteer at the Milford Fair, the Baxter Arts Centre and Cinefest Picton at The Regent, and organized the Old Milford Road Trash Bash. My experience with the public sector includes managing budgets up to $1.2 million, and working with rural and urban Councils about on Housing, Health and Accessibility issues.
PREVIOUS POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: I’ve been a civic-minded person all of my adult life. I know that contributing to how our communities are run is an important part of its success and health. I have spoken to Councils, sat on Northumberland County’s Accessibility Advisory Committee, and led its Access to Permanent Housing Committee. I’ve sat on the Toronto Urban Health Fund and I was involved in the twinning of Lindsay with a Japanese city. I’ve sat on and led boards concerned about community well being including in Hastings Prince Edward Counties. I’ve worked in law, and led policy-making which improved workplaces. So while I’ve never been an elected official, I take that responsibility and privilege seriously, and approach the role with a passion to learn and represent.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS POSITION? I am running to provide a fresh and balanced perspective on a Prince Edward County Council. My priority is starting with The County’s five strategic directions, ensuring planning and decisions happen with full community participation. I want to see The County a place that grows carefully, meets the housing, work, health and social needs of its residents, carefully considers environmental impact, and spends its tax dollars wisely.
