With the last day of summer here and about five weeks until the election, I wanted to update everyone on how the campaign is going.
First, to those who asked for a sign and put it on your lawn: thank you. It is a real privilege. I still have 35 left, so if you would like one, let me know and I will drive it over. A button should be ready this week as well.
I have also been visiting many homes and getting the chance to talk with so many of you. It has been fantastic to hear your visions and hopes for the Island. Many houses are empty when I knock, but I hope to see most of you and introduce myself.
You are always free to reach out if you want to talk anything through. I will keep making time on the roads right up until the election.
What I have been hearing
Emergency services and ferry access
This is my number one priority and after sitting through many meetings of the emergency services and ferry consultation group, it is where I feel most able to help. We are a small community and we need to build trust and relationships with decision makers in Kingston, Toronto and sometimes Ottawa. I have spent 35 years working with governments on community needs and I understand the process and the pathways to success.
Governance
Governance is a big issue. Everyone wants to see improvement in how our local council connects with Islanders and supports their concerns. We have a great model of government at council, with strong public servants running the day-to-day functions. What people want is more support and direction from their elected leaders. I believe that, if elected, I could help establish two new volunteer community groups.
A community liaison group for the ferry
This group would hear Islanders’ concerns about the ferry and work with staff to bring regular reports to council on those concerns and on anything needing discussion or a decision. Liaison groups are standard in communities with big, critical infrastructure like our ferries. I think it would build transparency and respect for decisions involving our most important transportation link. Medical and emergency services also need more attention and better sharing of information about priorities.
A volunteer ombudsman
Neighbours raise many concerns about safety bylaws, nuisance issues and more. A local volunteer ombudsman could help people get answers and share information, which would ease the load on staff and council. Everyone needs to be heard and everyone deserves respect from their council. I believe we can do better here.
Support for community groups
Wolfe Island has great community events and charities such as Wolfe Island Fire and Rescue and Not For Profits such as the Wolfe Island Commons. Our young people also need support to further their education, play sports and pursue other opportunities. These needs take funding. I believe an independent group could help establish a Community Foundation to broaden the reach of philanthropy and direct funds to worthy causes. Every city has one and Wolfe Island would benefit from its own.
The weeks ahead
Over the coming weeks I hope to see many of you at the Meet the Candidates events, on the street or at your door. I will also announce a drop-in where we can sit down and talk, with plenty of time for questions.
I am ready to serve Wolfe Island. Let’s win together. I hope I can count on your vote!
Grateful,
Mark