Thank You

The results are in and I want to begin by thanking everyone who participated in this election process - an exciting time for our community. I especially wish to extend a heartfelt thank you to the many people who assisted me during the campaign:

· To previously elected officials and community leaders who shared their knowledge and expertise

· To constituents who shared their concerns and ideas for change, with me at the door

· To friends who helped knock on doors, deliver literature, put up signs, make phone calls, manage the books, and provided encouragement and a sounding board when needed.

· To my extended family, my 4 wonderful sons, and especially to my loving partner, Kelly, who has been with me every step of the way and has been my steadfast support along this journey.

I am humbled by the support I received from all across the community and although it was not the outcome I was hoping for, it was still a great honour to participate in the process and meet so many wonderful, caring members of the community throughout the campaign.

I wish to extend congratulations to my opponent, Mark Willmer, for his successful run for Mayor, as well as the 4 successful councilors: Mary Blank, David Shulist, Joseph Olsheski, and Shelley Maika.

I also wish to extend thanks and good wishes to all the candidates for stepping up to serve our wonderful community.

It is my sincere hope that this new Mayor and Council will embrace the idea of ‘Politics Done Differently'. That they will serve the community well: listen to the ratepayers; be transparent; seek out fresh ideas; and embrace opportunities for growth and prosperity.

I will continue to work to hold this new Mayor and Council accountable: to use common sense when it comes to budgeting; to find solutions for housing, for young and old alike; to find creative ways to grow and support economic development and tourism; to protect our natural spaces; and to build and support art, culture, and recreation – the sign of a healthy, vibrant and prosperous community.

The community benefits when we all work together. I gladly offer my support and business leadership experience to this new council in the days ahead. My door is always open.

Madawaska Valley Township (Combermere, Barry’s Bay, Wilno, and surrounding areas) is a great place to live, work, and play and I am proud to call it home.

P.S. …. Gone Fishing!