As I travel throughout Port Hope and speak with residents, I am often asked many questions about operations, budget and the spending of taxpayers’ money.
This week, I was asked by a resident via text message and a recorded media interview. The question asked why I am running for Mayor instead of Councillor. It is a fair question, and residents deserve a clear answer.
Every four years, we elect leaders who make decisions affecting taxes, services, infrastructure and quality of life.
Port Hope needs transparent, disciplined governance; careful oversight of taxpayers’ dollars; and leadership prepared to act rather than simply react.
Councillors play an important role by representing residents, reviewing reports, questioning recommendations, debating policies and voting on Council decisions.
The Mayor carries those responsibilities while also serving as Head of Council, providing leadership to Council, representing the entire municipality and carrying Port Hope’s voice to Northumberland County.
That County role requires more than attending meetings. Decisions involving housing, homelessness, public health, paramedic services and social services affect Port Hope directly. Our Mayor must be prepared, accessible and willing to accept meaningful responsibilities, serve on committees and advocate effectively for our community.
The Mayor must also work collaboratively with Council, respect the professional responsibilities of the CAO and staff, ensure difficult questions are addressed and remain accessible to residents—not only during an election or at official events. I am committed to serving as a full-time Mayor and to making that a daily responsibility to the residents of Wards 1 and 2.
I am running because my vision extends across the entire municipality. I want to strengthen the connection between the wards, improve Port Hope’s representation at the County table and establish clearer expectations for accountability, transparency and measurable results.
This decision follows years of observing municipal decisions, consulting with residents, asking questions, making delegations and serving on boards and committees involving governance, finance, health, business and community services.
My experience also includes education, real estate, entrepreneurship and community leadership. I have learned that meaningful change sometimes requires moving from advising outside the room to taking responsibility where decisions are made.
Some believe Mayoral candidates should first serve as Councillors. I respect that view, but Council experience is not the only path to municipal leadership. What matters is whether a candidate can demonstrate relevant experience, sound judgment, community involvement and a clear understanding of the office.
Residents should also expect every candidate, especially anyone relying on previous Council service to clearly identify their accomplishments, responsibilities, decisions and measurable results. Broad or ambiguous descriptions are not enough.
The important questions are:
- Does the candidate understand the responsibilities of Mayor?
- Can they demonstrate leadership, preparedness and sound judgment?
- Do they have a clear vision for the entire municipality?
- Will they be accessible and accountable after the election?
- Are they prepared to work full-time for residents and advocate effectively at Northumberland County?
I am not running for Mayor because I consider the role of Councillor less important. I am running because I believe my experience, independence, municipality-wide perspective and commitment to accessible, full-time leadership are suited to the responsibilities of Mayor.
I ask residents to examine my record, platform and preparedness and to hold every candidate to the same standard before deciding who is prepared to lead Port Hope.
Leadership is not a performance. It is a responsibility.
