AnneM
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Each candidate was asked 2 questions
1. Why should you represent North Dumphries?
2. Did someone encourage you to run? And if so, by whom?
Terry Knarr, Mayor candidate
RESPONSE
I represent a fresh set of eyes and a new perspective. I am running to give people a choice and encourage voter participation. Change starts with each of us.
Thank you for your questions.
Please Vote on Oct 26
Rodney Rollerman, Mayor candidate
RESPONSE
I would be glad to discuss this with you. Let me know a time when you are available and I will give you a call.
All the best,
Rod
- -
Rodney John F. Rolleman
THE FOLLOWING MAYOR CANDIDATE DID NOT RESPOND
Prabhjap Sandhu
WARD 1
Derrick Ostner, councillor
RESPONSE
Thank you for your decision to be an informed voter. I wish more people would follow your lead.
I’m currently away until next week. I would like to either talk with you in person or a phone call. If you’re not comfortable with that, then I can e mail you my rap sheet.
I’m not sure if you know, but I have been on council for 11 years, and currently representing ward 2. I live in ward 1. I have been deeply involved in the community for over 37 years in many community events groups and committees from sports to financial etc. There should also be an article in the Ayr News either this week or next with each candidates experience and views. It is of the utmost importance to know these qualifications. If some people simply want change, it could be a regrettable decision if they don’t fully understand these qualifications.
Please let me know how you would like to proceed and I will get it done when I’m back next week.
Thanks again: Derrick
Sent from my iPhone
Kishan Patel, councillor
RESPONSE
The response was requested to not be shared with a third party
WARD 2
Qavi Aziz, councillor
Thank you for reaching out to me. I especially appreciate that you are taking the time to learn about the candidates before deciding how to vote. I am very happy to answer your questions.
Why do I believe I should represent Ward 2?
I am not running because I believe I have all the answers. I am running because I care about this community, I am willing to listen, and I believe my experience can help me serve residents responsibly.
Before retiring, I worked in IT implementation and project management. Much of my professional life involved listening to people, understanding problems, bringing different people together, managing resources and finding practical solutions. I believe those same skills are valuable on the Council.
Since becoming involved in our community, I have also seen how important it is for residents to have a councillor who is approachable and willing to listen. If elected, I want residents to feel comfortable contacting me whether I agree with them or not.
My priorities include responsible growth while protecting our farmland and rural character, better recreational and community opportunities for families, youth and seniors, careful use of taxpayers' money, and making sure residents have a meaningful voice in decisions affecting them.
Was I encouraged by someone to run?
No particular person, political party, organization, developer or special-interest group encouraged me to run. I made that decision myself.
However, there was an experience in Ayr that had a meaningful influence on me. There was an incident involving hateful messaging on a community sign, and I felt I could not simply remain silent. I spoke up because I believe hatred and division have no place in our community.
That experience caused me to think seriously about what I could personally do to help. We have people in Ayr and throughout North Dumfries from many different backgrounds, beliefs and walks of life. We may not always agree with one another, but we can still respect one another, listen to one another and work together.
It strengthened my desire to do my part to bring this beautiful community together. That is one of the reasons I decided to put my name forward for Council.
For me, this is not about beginning a political career. It is about public service. If the residents of Ward 2 give me their trust, I will do my best to represent all residents, whether they voted for me or not.
Thank you again for taking the time to ask me directly. I would also be very interested to hear what issues are most important to you and your family in Ward 2.
Warm regards,
Qavi Aziz
Candidate for Councillor — Ward 2
Township of North Dumfries
289-242-1758
info@qaviaziz.ca
qaviaziz.ca
Sherri Hughes, councillor
RESPONSE
Thanks for your interest in being an informed voter and my candidacy. I was just out today speaking with a Ward 2 resident in Ayr today, as a resident in Ward 1 there are questions why I would run as a candidate for Ward 2, and I respect the difference between the Wards, unique areas of course however, I do feel as a resident in Ayr for 25 years in Ward 1 and of course neighbours with Ward 2, my candidacy is relevant. If elected as a counsellor for North Dumfries I will always be accessible, lead with integrity and be transparent with communication. My "WHY" for electing to register as a candidate for Councillor includes a focus on 5 primary objectives to work with the Community, Township Staff, and Council. I've also highlighted a couple of intentions for each. 1) Advocate for a strategic spending review - ND Township has done well to keep our taxes low a review would be to look at current programming and if opportunities to expand programs and services. I think there are some great initiatives and I realize considerable effort is done to maintain lower taxes I'm interested in the funding of programs that support all of ND. Leisure, and wellness program & activities that support everyone's well-being and not change for the sake of change only if it's purposeful. 2) Engagement for feedback and active community involvement for residents and businesses. - Conversations point to community members interest in having more of a say before decisions are made, stakeholder groups or town halls help to provide alternate ways for open conversation 3) Exploring an actionable plan for Downtown Ayr Revitalization - Local businesses work hard to attract and maintain a customer base as a Township I think supporting the local business is important as well as attracting a diverse business base for residents to enjoy4) Research and plan for North Dumfries rich natural assets- An area I'm certainly not an expert in but as many residents do I appreciate the green spaces, conservation areas and parks; focus is how to preserve for today and tomorrow- Lighting to preserve and not interfere with natural habitat 5) Community Safety -Highlighting that it appears the current Township Council had completed a risk assessment for community safety a great initiative; I would advocate for this to be open again for further discussion. As we've grown there maybe important considerations to explore. As far as encouragement, I did receive the 25 endorsements from friends and neighbours in Ward 1, Ward 2 and Ward 4, all of which is required to register as a candidate. The idea and initiative was really mine independently. As a retired person that worked outside of Ayr for 27 years it was always a relief to return home once "over the tracks" I knew it was home. I always appreciated the benefits of living in Ayr but never had the time to contribute or help my community. I did volunteer with the Fresh Ayr Festival for a couple of years, a long time ago now and continue to volunteer with Porchlight a community based mental health counseling and addiction services. These services are also available in North Dumfries, and also includes the "Young at Heart" program at United Church. My career work was always community based while at Conestoga I truly was working within the community, work to support individuals access to training and employment programs and business and industry helping them access programs to upskill workers and hire new employees. I was a manager for most of my career and retired May 2025 as Associate Director for Co-op. Youth employment and economic prosperity key areas I spent a great deal of time supporting. Successful programs with the most impact was when we were able to have partnerships across business/industry, government and public services. I've always been viewed as a leader focused on service, partnership building and strong research and planning. I've learned and valued the experiences through my career and feel I have the energy, time and skills to continue to contribute. I hope you will see this as well and I would welcome more conversation if your interested. I can be reached by cell as well at 519-404-7314. Thanks for taking the time to ask and it's a big ask but I would hope you will reach out again and could support my candidacy. Sherri Denise Vanderhorst, councillorRESPONSEI am absolutely thrilled to receive this email!I have always been a big advocate for being informed and voting. So thank you for taking the time and making the effort.Can I ask where you live?I started going door to door with my team and I’m wondering if I’ve already been to your door or if I still have to get to you.I have wanted to run for council for 12 years. I was probably thinking about it prior to that as well, but I know I was serious about it 12 years ago. I was advised by a number of people I look up to, to not run yet.My mother was running to be mayor for the first time and they were concerned I would hurt her odds and cost her some votes.Which was quite possible.So I didn’t. Instead I got married, bought a house and started a family. All while still being entrenched in our village.No, I do not have first hand municipal government experience. But I do have the dinner table crash course. My mom is Sue Foxton. To say she has inspired me is an understatement. Now it’s my turn to step up and give back to the community I love and am proud of.I want to make sure we keep our small town charm that we all cherish.I want to make sure our natural beauty is kept . We are so lucky to have the ponds, rivers, nature trails in our village. It would be a shame to lose it all. Not only do I want to save that but I want to make sure to advocate for our historical buildings (designated or not).I want to make sure we are fiscally responsible. I will push our future mayor to fight on our behalf at the regional level. We need safer crossings at various points across Northumberland and Swan (not in our ward but it still matters).I was born and raised in Ayr. My roots are here. I’ve been on the ringette teams, on the executive boards for ringette and hockey. I’ve coached baseball teams and played/ still play Ayr baseball, I was on the Ayr 200 committee… I’ve always been here and now is my time to step up and do more for the community I love.Thank you for reaching out to me.Now I have to go kiss my babies good night before another first day of school.Please do not hesitate to reach out again with any questions or concerns. It was a pleasure!Good night!DeniseSent from my iPhoneWARD 3Alida Williams, councillor acclaimedRESPONSEno response givenWARD 4Jonathan Bos, councillorRESPONSE'm excited for the opportunity to represent ward 4, if elected, because I think North Dumfries is a great place to live. I've lived here my whole life, I run a business in the township, I'm raising my family here. I'm deeply invested in the future success of our township. I was encouraged to run for this position by the incumbent ward 4 councillor, Scott Tilley. He decided not to seek reelection and felt that I would be able to meet the needs of our local residents.Thank you for taking the time to get yourself informed. Educated voters are the pillars of our democratic institutions.If you have any further questions, let me know.JonathanBarb Elliott, councillorRESPONSEhank you for reaching out, and I really appreciate that you are taking the time to become an informed voter. I think that is exactly what a local election should be about.I decided to run because I care deeply about Ward 4 and the communities that make it such a great place to live. I believe our residents deserve a councillor who will listen, be accessible, ask questions, and make decisions based on what is best for our community—not on politics or personal agendas.I have lived in this area for many years and have a genuine interest in seeing Ward 4 move forward while still protecting the rural character, neighbourhoods, and quality of life that make it special. I want to be someone residents can contact when they have a concern and know that they will be heard.As for whether I was encouraged to run—yes, conversations with people in the community helped give me the confidence to put my name forward. I have spoken with residents who encouraged me to consider running because they felt I would listen and represent them well. Ultimately, though, the decision was mine. I decided to run because I believe I can make a positive contribution to Ward 4.I also believe candidates should be willing to talk directly with residents, listen to different perspectives, and earn their support. I would be very happy to speak with you further if you have other questions about my reasons for running or what I would like to accomplish for Ward 4.Thank you again for taking the time to reach out.Barb ElliottCandidate for Councillor, Ward 4
1. Why should you represent North Dumphries?
2. Did someone encourage you to run? And if so, by whom?
Terry Knarr, Mayor candidate
RESPONSE
I represent a fresh set of eyes and a new perspective. I am running to give people a choice and encourage voter participation. Change starts with each of us.
Thank you for your questions.
Please Vote on Oct 26
Rodney Rollerman, Mayor candidate
RESPONSE
I would be glad to discuss this with you. Let me know a time when you are available and I will give you a call.
All the best,
Rod
- -
Rodney John F. Rolleman
THE FOLLOWING MAYOR CANDIDATE DID NOT RESPOND
Prabhjap Sandhu
WARD 1
Derrick Ostner, councillor
RESPONSE
Thank you for your decision to be an informed voter. I wish more people would follow your lead.
I’m currently away until next week. I would like to either talk with you in person or a phone call. If you’re not comfortable with that, then I can e mail you my rap sheet.
I’m not sure if you know, but I have been on council for 11 years, and currently representing ward 2. I live in ward 1. I have been deeply involved in the community for over 37 years in many community events groups and committees from sports to financial etc. There should also be an article in the Ayr News either this week or next with each candidates experience and views. It is of the utmost importance to know these qualifications. If some people simply want change, it could be a regrettable decision if they don’t fully understand these qualifications.
Please let me know how you would like to proceed and I will get it done when I’m back next week.
Thanks again: Derrick
Sent from my iPhone
Kishan Patel, councillor
RESPONSE
The response was requested to not be shared with a third party
WARD 2
Qavi Aziz, councillor
Thank you for reaching out to me. I especially appreciate that you are taking the time to learn about the candidates before deciding how to vote. I am very happy to answer your questions.
Why do I believe I should represent Ward 2?
I am not running because I believe I have all the answers. I am running because I care about this community, I am willing to listen, and I believe my experience can help me serve residents responsibly.
Before retiring, I worked in IT implementation and project management. Much of my professional life involved listening to people, understanding problems, bringing different people together, managing resources and finding practical solutions. I believe those same skills are valuable on the Council.
Since becoming involved in our community, I have also seen how important it is for residents to have a councillor who is approachable and willing to listen. If elected, I want residents to feel comfortable contacting me whether I agree with them or not.
My priorities include responsible growth while protecting our farmland and rural character, better recreational and community opportunities for families, youth and seniors, careful use of taxpayers' money, and making sure residents have a meaningful voice in decisions affecting them.
Was I encouraged by someone to run?
No particular person, political party, organization, developer or special-interest group encouraged me to run. I made that decision myself.
However, there was an experience in Ayr that had a meaningful influence on me. There was an incident involving hateful messaging on a community sign, and I felt I could not simply remain silent. I spoke up because I believe hatred and division have no place in our community.
That experience caused me to think seriously about what I could personally do to help. We have people in Ayr and throughout North Dumfries from many different backgrounds, beliefs and walks of life. We may not always agree with one another, but we can still respect one another, listen to one another and work together.
It strengthened my desire to do my part to bring this beautiful community together. That is one of the reasons I decided to put my name forward for Council.
For me, this is not about beginning a political career. It is about public service. If the residents of Ward 2 give me their trust, I will do my best to represent all residents, whether they voted for me or not.
Thank you again for taking the time to ask me directly. I would also be very interested to hear what issues are most important to you and your family in Ward 2.
Warm regards,
Qavi Aziz
Candidate for Councillor — Ward 2
Township of North Dumfries
289-242-1758
info@qaviaziz.ca
qaviaziz.ca
RESPONSE
Thanks for your interest in being an informed voter and my candidacy. I was just out today speaking with a Ward 2 resident in Ayr today, as a resident in Ward 1 there are questions why I would run as a candidate for Ward 2, and I respect the difference between the Wards, unique areas of course however, I do feel as a resident in Ayr for 25 years in Ward 1 and of course neighbours with Ward 2, my candidacy is relevant. If elected as a counsellor for North Dumfries I will always be accessible, lead with integrity and be transparent with communication. My "WHY" for electing to register as a candidate for Councillor includes a focus on 5 primary objectives to work with the Community, Township Staff, and Council. I've also highlighted a couple of intentions for each. 1) Advocate for a strategic spending review - ND Township has done well to keep our taxes low a review would be to look at current programming and if opportunities to expand programs and services. I think there are some great initiatives and I realize considerable effort is done to maintain lower taxes I'm interested in the funding of programs that support all of ND. Leisure, and wellness program & activities that support everyone's well-being and not change for the sake of change only if it's purposeful. 2) Engagement for feedback and active community involvement for residents and businesses. - Conversations point to community members interest in having more of a say before decisions are made, stakeholder groups or town halls help to provide alternate ways for open conversation 3) Exploring an actionable plan for Downtown Ayr Revitalization - Local businesses work hard to attract and maintain a customer base as a Township I think supporting the local business is important as well as attracting a diverse business base for residents to enjoy4) Research and plan for North Dumfries rich natural assets- An area I'm certainly not an expert in but as many residents do I appreciate the green spaces, conservation areas and parks; focus is how to preserve for today and tomorrow- Lighting to preserve and not interfere with natural habitat 5) Community Safety -Highlighting that it appears the current Township Council had completed a risk assessment for community safety a great initiative; I would advocate for this to be open again for further discussion. As we've grown there maybe important considerations to explore. As far as encouragement, I did receive the 25 endorsements from friends and neighbours in Ward 1, Ward 2 and Ward 4, all of which is required to register as a candidate. The idea and initiative was really mine independently. As a retired person that worked outside of Ayr for 27 years it was always a relief to return home once "over the tracks" I knew it was home. I always appreciated the benefits of living in Ayr but never had the time to contribute or help my community. I did volunteer with the Fresh Ayr Festival for a couple of years, a long time ago now and continue to volunteer with Porchlight a community based mental health counseling and addiction services. These services are also available in North Dumfries, and also includes the "Young at Heart" program at United Church. My career work was always community based while at Conestoga I truly was working within the community, work to support individuals access to training and employment programs and business and industry helping them access programs to upskill workers and hire new employees. I was a manager for most of my career and retired May 2025 as Associate Director for Co-op. Youth employment and economic prosperity key areas I spent a great deal of time supporting. Successful programs with the most impact was when we were able to have partnerships across business/industry, government and public services. I've always been viewed as a leader focused on service, partnership building and strong research and planning. I've learned and valued the experiences through my career and feel I have the energy, time and skills to continue to contribute. I hope you will see this as well and I would welcome more conversation if your interested. I can be reached by cell as well at 519-404-7314. Thanks for taking the time to ask and it's a big ask but I would hope you will reach out again and could support my candidacy. Sherri Denise Vanderhorst, councillorRESPONSEI am absolutely thrilled to receive this email!I have always been a big advocate for being informed and voting. So thank you for taking the time and making the effort.Can I ask where you live?I started going door to door with my team and I’m wondering if I’ve already been to your door or if I still have to get to you.I have wanted to run for council for 12 years. I was probably thinking about it prior to that as well, but I know I was serious about it 12 years ago. I was advised by a number of people I look up to, to not run yet.My mother was running to be mayor for the first time and they were concerned I would hurt her odds and cost her some votes.Which was quite possible.So I didn’t. Instead I got married, bought a house and started a family. All while still being entrenched in our village.No, I do not have first hand municipal government experience. But I do have the dinner table crash course. My mom is Sue Foxton. To say she has inspired me is an understatement. Now it’s my turn to step up and give back to the community I love and am proud of.I want to make sure we keep our small town charm that we all cherish.I want to make sure our natural beauty is kept . We are so lucky to have the ponds, rivers, nature trails in our village. It would be a shame to lose it all. Not only do I want to save that but I want to make sure to advocate for our historical buildings (designated or not).I want to make sure we are fiscally responsible. I will push our future mayor to fight on our behalf at the regional level. We need safer crossings at various points across Northumberland and Swan (not in our ward but it still matters).I was born and raised in Ayr. My roots are here. I’ve been on the ringette teams, on the executive boards for ringette and hockey. I’ve coached baseball teams and played/ still play Ayr baseball, I was on the Ayr 200 committee… I’ve always been here and now is my time to step up and do more for the community I love.Thank you for reaching out to me.Now I have to go kiss my babies good night before another first day of school.Please do not hesitate to reach out again with any questions or concerns. It was a pleasure!Good night!DeniseSent from my iPhoneWARD 3Alida Williams, councillor acclaimedRESPONSEno response givenWARD 4Jonathan Bos, councillorRESPONSE'm excited for the opportunity to represent ward 4, if elected, because I think North Dumfries is a great place to live. I've lived here my whole life, I run a business in the township, I'm raising my family here. I'm deeply invested in the future success of our township. I was encouraged to run for this position by the incumbent ward 4 councillor, Scott Tilley. He decided not to seek reelection and felt that I would be able to meet the needs of our local residents.Thank you for taking the time to get yourself informed. Educated voters are the pillars of our democratic institutions.If you have any further questions, let me know.JonathanBarb Elliott, councillorRESPONSEhank you for reaching out, and I really appreciate that you are taking the time to become an informed voter. I think that is exactly what a local election should be about.I decided to run because I care deeply about Ward 4 and the communities that make it such a great place to live. I believe our residents deserve a councillor who will listen, be accessible, ask questions, and make decisions based on what is best for our community—not on politics or personal agendas.I have lived in this area for many years and have a genuine interest in seeing Ward 4 move forward while still protecting the rural character, neighbourhoods, and quality of life that make it special. I want to be someone residents can contact when they have a concern and know that they will be heard.As for whether I was encouraged to run—yes, conversations with people in the community helped give me the confidence to put my name forward. I have spoken with residents who encouraged me to consider running because they felt I would listen and represent them well. Ultimately, though, the decision was mine. I decided to run because I believe I can make a positive contribution to Ward 4.I also believe candidates should be willing to talk directly with residents, listen to different perspectives, and earn their support. I would be very happy to speak with you further if you have other questions about my reasons for running or what I would like to accomplish for Ward 4.Thank you again for taking the time to reach out.Barb ElliottCandidate for Councillor, Ward 4
