My Vision

A Council with a Forward Looking Vision

I am committed to creating an environment in council that works together with a positive mindset, thinks creatively, and refuses to cut corners. A council that listens to people and builds policy that benefits everyone. It is a council committed to developing solid, thoughtful plans that serve the long‑term interests of the community. Above all, it is a council that respects the people who work for the municipality and values their expertise, professionalism, and dedication.

Sustainable Community Planning

I am committed to creating a sustainable community plan that shapes our community, so it meets today’s needs without undermining the ability of future generations to meet theirs. Examples are projects such as a new fire hall, or the Daffodil Auxiliary Food Bank, when is it required, how will we pay for it how will it be managed. Both essential services in our community.

Accountability & Transparency

I will not manage as a Strong Mayor. Accountability and transparency in Dutton Dunwich are the foundation of effective local governance. Residents deserve clear information about how decisions are made, how public funds are used, and how council actions align with community priorities. I support open decision pathways, accessible financial reporting, and consistent updates on municipal projects so people can easily follow our progress. Strong, open processes build trust, strengthen our community, and keep council focused on long‑term, responsible planning.

Fiscal Responsibility

I am committed to strengthening our municipality’s financial position. After serving three years on the finance committee, it became clear that Dutton Dunwich had no long‑term plan for capital expenditures and no strategy for managing debt. Our debt limits were fully maxed with both the Province and our financial institution. Debt can be healthy when used responsibly, but remaining overextended restricts the municipality’s ability to pursue opportunities that provide long‑term community benefit, such as strategic capital investments. Prudent financial planning and building cash reserves for future capital projects are essential to improving our financial stability. The municipality’s ability to reduce property taxes is directly tied to its overall financial health, and until 2025, Dutton Dunwich did not have a formal cash reserve plan in place. Establishing and maintaining these reserves is a critical step toward responsible financial stewardship and long‑term sustainability.

Longterm Infrastructure Planning

Infrastructure is the foundation of any successful economic development plan. Planning for growth requires a clear understanding of the assets needed to support that growth—roads, culverts, water systems, facilities, and all the critical components that allow a community to function and expand. Dutton Dunwich must continue its commitment to strengthening infrastructure, which is why a Manager of Infrastructure was hired to bring focus and expertise to this work. Poor infrastructure planning in the past has cost the municipality millions of dollars and created significant challenges for development, affecting planning, project timelines and financial stability. As a result, council was forced to implement an interim control bylaw to temporarily freeze development in order to protect residents from potential risk. The same principle applies to the agricultural community, where proper nutrient management planning for livestock facilities is essential to protecting land, water, and long‑term farm viability. By planning ahead, investing wisely, and maintaining disciplined financial practices, we safeguard our infrastructure and strengthen the foundation for future development.

Economic Development Plan & Business Retention

I believe in an Economic Development Plan that thoughtfully considers residential, commercial, and light industrial growth, while focusing on how we attract people to our community and support the infrastructure needed as we develop. A strong plan increases tax revenue, creates jobs, and strengthens the municipality. It must also recognize the importance of culture, tourism, and community events in shaping our identity. Successful economic development requires the involvement of all municipal staff, along with meaningful support for local businesses through clear information and accessible resources. Working collaboratively with regional and provincial economic development organizations is essential to ensuring long‑term business retention and sustainable community growth.

Vibrant Community Organizations & Culture

Herein lies the heart of our community. Community organizations are invaluable to Dutton Dunwich, and their work strengthens the social fabric of our municipality. Standing in the Heart of the Talbot Settlement, we are steeped in history and culture, and organizations such as Backus Page House Museum, St. Peter’s Church, and the Heritage Committee play an essential role in preserving our past and sharing it with future generations. We are equally fortunate to have dedicated groups like the Iona Hall, Crinan Community Centre, Wallacetown Fair, Wallacetown Optimist, Dutton Dunwich Lions Club, and the West Elgin Daffodil Auxiliary, along with countless volunteers who support community events, social programs, and essential local needs. By actively supporting these organizations and leveraging their activities, partnerships, and community reach, we can enhance tourism, strengthen local identity, and create meaningful opportunities for residents to connect and thrive. Every organization contributes to the vitality of Dutton Dunwich, and each deserves municipal support to continue building a vibrant, engaged, and culturally rich community.