MAPLETON — Three candidates will have the chance to defend why they should be Mapleton's next councillor at an upcoming council meeting.
Following a call for applications last month, three residents have submitted personal statements on why they should be Mapleton's new councillor and will have five minutes to address council at Tuesday's meeting, followed by one direct question from each member. Non-speaking applicants will be sequestered.
Former councillor Martin Tamlyn resigned in September after accepting a job as climate change coordinator in Centre Wellington.
One of the new candidates is former Mapleton mayor and councillor Neil Driscoll, who said he watches all the council meetings on Youtube and was encouraged to put his name forward by residents. Driscoll is involved with the Optimist Club, Drayton Ag Society, Arthur Minor Lacrosse and the Ontario Truck and Tractor Pulls Association.
"I must admit that despite the accomplishments I've mentioned so far, my biggest accomplishment is our kids...now that my children are busy making their own lives, I've been granted more time which I would like to commit to the council vacancy position," said Driscoll, in his statement.
Moving to Alma from Arthur in September 2022, councillor candidate Jason Hutten said he recently completed a three-year term as his church's deacon, where he served as treasurer and has volunteered as a children's hockey and soccer coach and cadet counsellor. He is also a Red Seal certified tool and dye maker with more than 10 years of industry experience and is currently the acting shop supervisor at Emerson Electric in Elmira.
"Community involvement has become increasingly important to me, particularly as a parent. I recognize the significant role municipalities play in utilizing resources for the betterment of our local community," said Hutten, in his statement. "I believe I possess the skills and dedication necessary to be a productive member of the Mapleton Council, and I would be honoured to serve the township alongside you."
Third candidate Lori Woodham served as Mapleton councillor from 2014 to 2018 and is the current chair of the township's committee of adjustment.
"I believe with my current experience...I can transition into this position," said Woodham, in her statement. "Although there will be a learning curve, I am aware of our policies and procedures for Mapleton Township and feel confident in my skill set that I would adapt quickly."
After the presentations, each council member will fill out a ballot which will be read aloud. In the event of a tie, council will utilize the tie-breaking procedure.
The successful candidate will be invited to attend a two-hour meeting on Nov. 18 with the CAO, clerk and chief financial officer to update them on the 2025 budget process and status. They will also be expected to be in the audience at a public meeting open house on Nov. 18 on the proposed budget at the PMD Arena.
The new councillor will be sworn in at the Nov. 26 meeting.
Isabel Buckmaster is the Local Journalism Initiative reporter for GuelphToday. LJI is a federally-funded program.
