Two all-candidate meetings have been held in Clearview Township this month, giving voters an opportunity to hear from those running for municipal council.
Meeting keeps candidates on theme
A meeting held in Creemore on Oct. 6 was hosted by Escarpment Corridor Alliance focussing on the environment and preservation.
Candidates were provided limited time for introductions before responding to set questions prepared by organizers and distributed to candidates in advance of the meeting. Most read from prepared responses, and for the most part all candidates were in agreement on the importance of safeguarding the township’s infrastructure from extreme weather events, preserving waterways and natural heritage, protecting farmland and opposition to the Arctic Over the Horizon radar project being located on agricultural land.
During the first half of the meeting, with a crowd of about 150, moderator Brent Preston asked a series of questions of the five candidates running for mayor and deputy mayor.
Candidates made statements in support of conservation, maintenance of ditches and storm pond management, maintaining settlement area boundaries, without anyone going against the grain.
On the topic of diversifying housing options, ward candidates were in agreement that large scale cookie cutter subdivisions were not the answer, instead speaking in support of infilling, higher density multiplexes, secondary suites, rental units, and incentives for developers to build affordable housing.
Two candidates were outliers, saying they would work to keep development at a minimum.
James Webster running to represent the Creemore area, said, “My goal on council is not growth for growth’s sake. We all have a common unity in living here in this rural way of life, and we should all be in support of keeping any growth in check, and be proud of that decision. I can’t think of a small town or rural hamlet as unique and as vibrant as Ward 2. We have something so special here, and we need to take stock of this and do whatever it takes to hang on to this ever- shrinking way of life. I will fight tirelessly to ensure we live within our means, so we aren’t held hostage by big developers... we can point to many examples within Southern Ontario that have grown too big, too fast, and we just can’t let that happen here.”
Ward 5 candidate Robert Thomas said, “To assess housing needs, we need to look at what motivates people to live in Clearview. In New Lowell, open space, natural environment, and small town atmosphere are often mentioned. Housing that allows residents to enjoy our rural heritage is the best fit. Large subdivisions will not provide the housing that promotes our rural heritage and protects our natural areas. Large lots from five to 25 acres will increase small-scale farming opportunities and better protect natural heritage areas. Second suites and detached dwelling units can provide a way for families to live on one property and supply affordable housing options. On council, I will support housing that maintains our rural heritage, protects agricultural land, and conserves natural areas.”
Candidates face voters in Stayner
by Bonnie MacPherson
The need to protect farmland, nurture responsible development and ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely were recurring themes as the Clearview Chamber of Commerce hosted an all-candidates debate in Stayner.
Two candidates for mayor, three for deputy mayor and 12 candidates vying for five ward seats met Wednesday evening at the invitation of the Clearview Chamber of Commerce to present their platforms and answer questions from residents. Incumbent mayoral candidate Doug Measures told the crowd he is concerned about the possibility of further amalgamation.
“There is a possibility that amalgamation will come again and I will fight against it tooth and nail,” he said.
Measures says it is not evident that amalgamation resulted in the promised efficiencies, and he worries that if Clearview were joined with a larger municipality, the rural character of the township would be in jeopardy.
Challenger Robert McArthur says his approach to the mayor’s role will be simple.
“People just want the basics done well. When you call the township, someone should be there, and your questions should be answered,” he said.
McArthur, who has represented Ward 2 on the current council, says housing for seniors and young families will be a priority.
Asked how they would attract new businesses and jobs to the area, McArthur praised the efforts of the township’s economic development officer, and suggested more industrial land should be made available. Measures added that a review of the Stayner settlement boundary currently underway will increase the availability of commercial land.
Of the candidates for deputy mayor, only Marty Beelen has council experience. He is proud of his work on road safety, especially the new four-way stop at Country Road 9 and Centre Line.
Lisa Rolfe brings experience in the corporate world, and pledges to use her skills to set priorities and manage expenses while delivering vital services and infrastructure.
Justin McGillvray, whose family has been farming in the area for five generations, has been a roads department employee for both the township and the county, and a volunteer firefighter. He promises accountable leadership in the deputy mayor role, and says, “Growth must pay for growth,” meaning developers should be footing the bill for infrastructure improvements to facilitate new developments.
James Webster, candidate for Ward 2, which includes Creemore, says there are real opportunities ahead for the area, but also significant challenges. He pledged his support for an expansion of the local library saying, “Libraries don’t come without a cost, but this is essential for the health of our community.” Webster would restrict any growth that threatens the natural environment, and says he will rely on his experience with NDACT (a group formed to oppose a large quarry in Dufferin Country) to keep the Mad and Noisy River watershed pristine.
Chuck Arrand, another candidate for Ward 2 would support the library expansion provided it did not lead to increased taxes. He calls for managed and affordable growth which respects the unique character of the biosphere.
The biggest reaction of the evening was to a question regarding the bleacher project at Gowan Park.
Local builder Mountain Ridge Homes withdrew their offer of free labour after the township imposed a series of restrictions. McArthur and Measures both cited liability concerns, but Gary Walters, candidate for Ward 2 urged a different approach.
“Our attitude should be that’s a good idea,” he said. “How do we make it happen versus starting with no.”
Walters says this is the biggest concern that he hears from residents as he campaigns, door to door.
There were a few empty seats in the St. Patrick’s Parish Hall and the tone of the meeting was largely collegial.
A specific question from the audience was addressed to Ward 3 candidate Dave Witzke, alluding to past run- ins with council. He was asked if he intended to abide by council’s Code of Conduct, if elected. His reply, “Probably.”
Editors note: In his remarks on fiscal responsibility, Deputy Mayor candidate Marty Beelen called on the township to “stop giving money to The Creemore Echo.” It should be noted that money spent by the township with The Creemore Echo is for paid advertising, and is, in no way, a donation.
