The Creemore Echo invited candidates running in Clearview Township to submit a 150-word bio so they could say who they are and what they represent in their own words. Their responses are presented in alphabetical order.
Candidates for mayor
Robert McArthur
Robert McArthur is a lifelong Clearview resident who knows and loves this community. He is the third generation to run the McArthur family farm, which has been in the family for more than 100 years.
Together with his wife, Sonja, McArthur raises beef cattle, grows grain crops, and raises Belgian horses. You’ll often see them giving horse and carriage rides around Creemore and participating in the July 1st and Christmas parades.
For 30 years, McArthur has worked at Reinhart Foods in Stayner, building a career based on hard work, commitment, and showing up.
In 2022, McArthur was elected councillor for Ward 2. His four years on council have given him valuable experience and a strong understanding of how municipal government works.
McArthur is running for mayor because he believes Clearview deserves leadership that listens, works hard, respects our rural roots, and looks toward the future while remembering what makes Clearview special.
He believes our future is strongest when we work together.
“Homegrown leadership for Clearview”
Doug Measures
Doug Measures has public service in his DNA. As a retired 36-year community television producer and a municipal servant for 20 years; 12- year Ward 1 councillor and eight years as mayor, his dedication to serve is undeniable.
As mayor, Measures has lead productive council decisions that are supported by the Clearview strategic plan. Listening to residents and advocating their concerns move our community forward. At each council meeting, Measures finds collaboration with council to find the path forward to a consensus. Many of his council resolutions pass with unanimous consent.
His focus remains on one community, Clearview Township. With a mandate to protect Clearview, Measures’ ideology is to build a strong agriculturally based economy with reasonable services and room to grow. Respected by provincial and county leaders, Measures has been a loud voice for Clearview Township; defending and promoting our agricultural economy and the families that live and work here.
Measures is seeking a third term as mayor, offering his steady leadership, with integrity, sometimes brutal honesty, and the experience that is required to face tough decisions in the coming years.
Deputy mayor
Marty Beelen
Born and raised in Clearview Township. Currently, councillor Ward 5 (New Lowell).
Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering, University of Waterloo, 1984.
Masters in Business Administration (MBA), York University, 1991.
Currently on Brentwood Hall Board, Station on the Green Hall Board (Chair), Climate Action Advisory Committee, Winterama committee, Huronia West OPP Detachment Board and the Sports and Culture Hall of Fame Board.
Active in the community. Member of the Creemore Curling Club and the New Lowell Dart League.
Active volunteer with the Georgian Triangle Anglers Association (GTAA) fish hatchery.
Baseball: Played minor ball in New Lowell, played for the New Lowell Knights and later Creemore Barons.
Coached minor ball, umpired minor ball and in the NDBL, was umpire in chief for SSMB and instructed new umpires.
Coached high school ball in Collingwood. Past NDBL statistician. Hockey: Played minor hockey in
Creemore. Coached minor hockey in Creemore and past Creemore minor hockey treasurer.
Soccer: Coached minor soccer in Creemore.
Justin McGillvray
I am running for deputy mayor of Clearview Township, bringing a lifelong commitment to the community my family has served since the 1800s. Having grown up in our local agricultural community and supporting local farming operations, I have a deep appreciation for our rural economy.
My background is centered on service and hands-on experience including, police foundations, firefighting, advanced emergency response training, service as a volunteer firefighter and municipal road operations within Clearview Township.
These experiences have given me firsthand understanding of agriculture, public safety, infrastructure, and the challenges facing our rural communities.
As Clearview grows, I believe we can welcome responsible development while protecting our vital farmland, rural character and natural beauty that define us. I am running to bring a practical, common-sense approach to council, focused on fairness, accountability, and ensuring your voices are heard. Please feel free to reach out to me at mcgill_just@yahoo.ca.
Lisa Rolfe
I have proudly called Clearview Township home for the past 12 years and am committed to protecting the integrity and character of the community we love.
For the past 12 years, I worked as a district manager, overseeing up to 14 locations, more than 200 employees and significant budgets. This experience required strong leadership, responsible financial management and balancing the unique needs of different communities.
I also volunteer with the children’s ministry at Clearview Community Church.
Recently, I began homeschooling full-time, allowing me greater flexibility to become more involved in our community. I believe municipal government directly impacts our everyday lives and meaningful change requires people willing to step forward.
My priorities are protecting Clearview’s identity while managing responsible growth, ensuring council listens to the residents it serves, and using taxpayer dollars effectively and responsibly.
While I have not previously served on council, I bring leadership and decision-making experience, a fresh perspective and an independent voice. I am running for deputy mayor with integrity, accountability and a commitment to Clearview residents.
Ward 1
Phyllis Dineen
My family has called Clearview Township home for almost 60 years. I retired from the Collingwood General and Marine Hospital in 2017 and was appointed to council in March 2020. I was elected by the residents of Ward 1 in 2022, and I am proud to bring my experience, knowledge and understanding to the role of councillor.
My husband, Kevan, and I will celebrate 48 years of marriage this December. Our sons and grandchildren also live here in Ward 1.
I truly can’t imagine a better place to live, work and raise a family.
I believe in integrity, individual choice, common sense and compassion. I am committed to listening to residents, helping others and giving back to the community I have called home.
I remain dedicated to serving Ward 1, advocating for our residents and working hard to protect the quality of life that makes Clearview unique. I am ready to continue putting my experience, time and energy to work for Clearview.
Craig Houghton
Craig Houghton is a 32-year resident of Nottawa, where he and his wife Michelle raised their large family.
In a policing career marked by public service, Houghton served on the OPP Provincial Liaison Team and is a skilled mediator. Now retired, he works for the Red Cross.
Recently Houghton obtained both a master’s and doctorate degree in his commitment to life-long learning. As a councillor, he will continue to apply this desire to learn.
Houghton believes in smart responsible growth and will strongly advocate for local concerns. Respected for his professionalism and calm approach to complex issues, he will always be open to discussions with residents on matters affecting their homes, businesses and their community to ensure their concerns will be heard.
Houghton will work constructively with Clearview council to protect the qualities that make our Ward 1 community a great place to live.
Ward 2
Chuck Arrand
When I retired out of Borden and settled in New Lowell, my wife and I fell in love with the area and decided to put down roots for the first time in 30 years. I went to work for a few local companies, and got appointed to a couple of township committees to give some of my time to making our township a better place.
In the 10 years since retirement, I’ve been active in the Royal Canadian Legion and the township on many levels.
Four years ago, I ran for deputy mayor and found a large amount of support for the things I believed in. Not enough to win but a start.
In my current ward there are three amazing choices that put their name in early. I feel that every ward needs a choice and Ward 2 at the time had one candidate. It’s next door to New Lowell and I’ve spent a lot of time in Ward 2 working for better things over the years. I want to bring some new thoughts and certainly new perspectives to township issues in the next term. I believe I have a lot to add to the council if elected.
Gary Walters
A seven-year full-time resident of Creemore, Gary is a frequent volunteer at local events including Santa Claus Parade, Solstice, ArtsFest, Creemore Film Club, Chamber Music. As treasurer of Purple Hills Arts and Heritage Society, he coordinates placing professional artists at NCPS and the development of the after- school art club.
A keen skier he has been treasurer and president of Mansfield ski club; keen on sports he was treasurer and president of Ontario Badminton as well as travelling the world as an International Badminton Referee.
Gary is currently chief actuary at a large health and benefits company, serving on the boards of two of their joint ventures and two industry associations.
He has two sons, one graduated and working as a hiking guide in Newfoundland, the other going into his final year at UBC.
Gary and his wife, Nadine, both love the community and that there is always something going on.
@garywaltersward2
James Webster
The Websters purchased their first piece of farmable land from Mr. Horning for seven shillings in 1840. My roots here are deep and housing definitely costs more than that these days. Am I right?!
I was elected councillor in Melancthon in 2014, pausing politics in 2018 for my daughter Metra, in Creemore. I loved the work and stayed active on community boards and committees: NVCA, Mulmur Melancthon Fire Board-Chair, Station on the Green hall, Park and cemetery boards.
I’ve worked with the County of Dufferin’s Social Housing, have a degree in Sustainable Building from Fleming and will ask the right questions so we consider growth when and how it makes sense for Ward 2 Clearview.
Our charm and history, shared economic interests for our futures, and the environment will always be top of mind in any decision. I will work tirelessly for fiscal responsibility, and keeping property taxes in check. Full stop.
I am an active listener, connector of people and skilled at bringing innovative ideas and solutions together, together!
Please support me in Ward 2 on Oct. 26.
Ward 3
Dave Witzke
Dave Witzke is a 65-year-old lifelong resident of Clearview (formerly Nottawasaga Township), where he has lived for the past 59 years. Witzke entered the construction industry at just 13 years old, building a respected career over more than five decades rooted in hard work, practical expertise, and a deep understanding of the area’s building trades and local landscape. Recently retired, Witzke had stepped away from a lifetime of hands-on work to become the primary caregiver for his mother, carrying forward the same dedication, responsibility, and service that defined his career into this new chapter of life.
Witzke’s story is one of strong roots, reliability, and community spirit. Deeply connected to the community he has known and loved for nearly six decades, he contributed steadily to the construction industry for over fifty years. His continued commitment to family and community exemplifies the character that has defined him throughout his life.
John Broderick
I come from a farming background, and my family has deep roots in the area, dating back to the 1830’s. I have continued my family roots with my wife Rhonda and our three daughters. Clearview is where we have chosen to operate J&R Cycle for the past 44 years and we plan to be here for many more.
I was president of the Ontario Federation of All Terrain Vehicle Clubs during its formative years, and played a significant role in the development of regulation 316-03, which allowed road access for ATV’s in the Province of Ontario, where I learned how to get things done with the provincial government.
I am completing my second term as councillor for Clearview Township and am asking the residents of Ward 3 for their support in my run for a third term. As a part of my commitment to community development I sit on the Creemore BIA Board, the Clearview Library Board, the Sunnidale Hall Board, and am the president of the Clearview Chamber of Commerce.
Ward 4
Larry Culham
Larry Culham is seeking election as Ward 4 councillor, bringing deep family roots in Sunnidale Township and a long-time connection to the Clearview community.
His community involvement includes serving as past president of the Stayner Chamber of Commerce and as a member of the township’s economic development committee. In 2019, he received the Thomas Stayner Award for Citizen of the Year in recognition of his contributions to the community.
Culham continues to give back through the Food Bank and Stayner Heritage Society. As a local businessperson and real estate professional, he understands the challenges facing residents, families, farmers and small businesses.
He believes municipal government must be transparent, financially responsible and responsive. Culham is committed to listening to residents and providing Ward 4 with a strong, independent voice at the council table while protecting Clearview’s character and building a sustainable future.
Ken Walker
Greetings to all in Clearview Township. My name is Ken Walker and I am running for councillor in Ward 4.
I grew up in this community, going to public school in Creemore and high school in Stayner. Raised on a dairy farm on Airport Road, which my brother Collin has taken over. Our father would be proud to see the progress my brother has made on the farm.
I spent most of my working life working in retail as a meat cutter/manager. With the last 28 years with Costco. The last building I worked in was Orillia as meat manager. I spent over 20 years in a management position. Dealing with the public and working with people seems to come naturally to me, along with basic duties such as scheduling, budgets, projections and sales forecasts, and human resources.
As I said, I grew up here and care about what happens in our township. Also, with my management background I feel I would be an asset to the township.
Ward 5
Rachel Brooks
Rachel Brooks is a farmer, mother of three, community volunteer and advocate running for Ward 5 councillor in Clearview Township.
With a background in project management and community and agricultural leadership, Brooks believes good local government starts with listening. As co-chair of Clearview ROAR, advocating for residents and landowners affected by the proposed DND project, she has seen firsthand the importance of transparency, meaningful public engagement and strong local representation.
Brooks believes Clearview can plan responsibly for the future while protecting the rural character of our communities. Her priorities include safe roads for all, responsible infrastructure investment, accessible services, support for local businesses, and stronger programs for families, including childcare.
As your councillor, Brooks will listen and make your voice heard on the issues that matter. By leading with integrity, she will remain accountable to the beautiful and growing community she serves.
“Rooted in Community. Focused on the Future.”
Robert Thomas
My wife and I settled in New Lowell in 1999 on a rural property that offered us the ability to start hobby farming. Today we run a small farm, producing products for local residents. Protecting and promoting farming is important to me. As coordinator of the Brentwood Farmers’ Market I have seen how our rural traditions and heritage bring our community back together.
With my background in business and real estate, I understand the importance of fiscal responsibility and common sense decision-making.
My commitment to the prudent use of taxpayer dollars will guide my votes on council.
I believe the most important job as councillor is communication. To represent residents I need to know their concerns, not just at election time. By hosting monthly open house meetings I will always be connected to residents and share what is happening in Clearview.
Melanie Walters
I am a dedicated community volunteer and candidate for Ward 5 in Clearview Township, representing New Lowell and Brentwood. With more than 12 years of administrative experience in the public and private sectors, I bring strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills to my community.
I have served on the Brentwood Community Centre Board and as chair of the Avening Community Centre Board. I am also an active member of the Sunnidale Winterama committee and have volunteered with the Legion and other community initiatives. In 2025, I received a certificate recognizing seven years of volunteer service.
I believe that strong communities are built by listening, working together, and following through. I am committed to being accessible, representing residents’ concerns, and ensuring that New Lowell and Brentwood have a strong voice at the council table.
My approach is simple: show up, speak up, and get things done for the community I call home.
Candidate meetings
Sept. 24
Nottawa Area Residents Association is hosting a meeting for mayor, deputy mayor and Ward 1 candidates at 7 p.m. at Clearview Community Church, 20 Batteaux Rd., Nottawa.
Oct. 3
Mulmur All Candidates Meeting hosted by Mono Mulmur Citizens’ Coalition (MC)2 at the Mulmur Town Office. 10 a.m.
Oct. 6
Escarpment Corridor Alliance is hosting an all-candidates meeting at the Creemore Legion. Doors open at 6 p.m.
Note: John Broderick did not initially submit a biography because he was away on vacation so it has been added post publication.
