1. I’m running for council because there are only two other people running to represent Beachburg, Westmeath and the former township of Ross and that the needs of these areas are addressed. I feel my hands-on experience in the fields of agriculture and construction as well as my experience as President of the National Farmers Union, Renfrew County branch provide the perspective needed to be effective as councillor. I have experience working in a group to effect positive change.
2. To help manage the council, to bring my perspective to the table and to make the township a better place to live.
3+4. I’ve been active as the President of the NFU, I worked with representatives of both local and federal governments, as a member of the Beachburg Fair Board I planned, organized and executed the
Beachburg fair. The attendance of the fair has risen from 3,000 to 9,500 during my time on the board. We’ve added 3 new buildings, improved infrastructure and are still turning a profit.
5. Mainly to get the fiscal house in order.
6. As president of the Renfrew County NFU for 7 years I’ve already been promoting Whitewater Region by working with ministers of industry and agriculture from both the provincial and federal governments to improve industry and put the spotlight on our area.
7. Whitewater Region being the largest geographical township in the county has more roads than anyone else and a relatively small tax base. We’ll have to better use the equipment that we have and our capable people to get good results as we continue to lobby the provincial government for funding.
8. This question is a no-brainer. Agriculture being the largest industry in our area, we would be idiots not to aid and accommodate it.
9. Please refer to my last answer. My experience in agriculture would allow for no less.
10. Agriculture is #1. Though we have no money to help farmers directly we can cut red tape to make life easier on them so they can continue farming here.
15. More sustainable agriculture and buffer zones along lakes, rivers, and creek beds need to be implemented. This is also a problem that involves other townships as well as many areas contribute to our watershed problems. Communication with other townships is important to safeguarding our water supply.
19. Whitewater Township is a great place to live and to tell you the truth, I don’t believe that Council is badly run. Everything has room for improvement and the contribution of my world view and experience would benefit the governance of, and industry of Whitewater Township.
