Proven leadership for a caring and sustainable future
Saugeen Shores has been my full-time home for seven years. I am running for Deputy Mayor because I want to help our community meet the challenges of growth while protecting the qualities that make it such a special place to live, work and play, and I want it to be a welcoming place for everyone.
I bring experience in senior leadership as principal, superintendent and director of education, and as a former Deputy Mayor of the Town of The Blue Mountains and as a member of Grey County Council. My community service has included boards such as Big Brothers Big Sisters and Victim Services, two Saugeen Shores environmental committees, and serving as president of CFUW Southport for the past four years. These experiences have shaped my approach: listen carefully, ask informed questions, consider different perspectives, research to find comparables, and make responsible decisions.
This graphic brings together my three guiding principles: integrity and transparency, fiscal responsibility, and environmental and financial stewardship. These principles are interconnected. Open decisions build trust; careful financial management helps us meet today’s needs and tomorrow’s obligations; and protecting our natural heritage supports a healthy community for future generations.
Guiding principles for a caring and sustainable community:
These interconnected principles guide my approach to municipal decisions.
Housing affordability is an important part of our community’s future. People who work here need a realistic opportunity to live here. Seniors need suitable options as their circumstances change, and younger residents need opportunities to build their lives in our community. I support working with Bruce County, non-profit organizations, co-operatives and other partners to create housing that remains affordable over time.
Growth also brings demands on infrastructure such as roads, water, wastewater, recreational facilities and essential services. We must consider these together, manage public funds carefully and explain both the immediate costs and long-term obligations of decisions.
Protection of our greatest assets, our natural environment and our volunteers is a priority for me. Our beaches, forests and parklands must be protected from encroaching development as a top priority. Once lost, we can’t recover it. Another great asset is our volunteers, the value of which is priceless! They organize festivals, care for beaches and trails, support food banks, drive neighbours to medical appointments and contribute to our hospital and schools. Much of this work happens quietly, but its impact is enormous. It’s what makes us the caring community that all residents and visitors should experience, today and in years to come.
I will bring these guiding principles to the council table, along with respect, an independent perspective and a willingness to work constructively with Council, staff and members of the public to make the best possible decisions for today and for decades to come.
I would be honoured to earn your vote for Deputy Mayor of Saugeen Shores.
Learn more about my experience and priorities at electodette.ca.
Voting is open until Monday, October 26 at 8 p.m. Please make your voice heard
