AnneM
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Each candidate was asked two questions
1. Why do you feel you should represent Woolwich?
2. Were you encouraged to run? And if so, by whom?
Eric Schwindt, Mayor Candidate
RESPONSE
Hello!
Thanks for reaching out!
Why am I running..... I will admit that my family and friends ask me that!!
But I got involved in the past when I felt that Council wasn't asking enough questions on reccomendations, and I disagreed with decisions. One of my philosophies is your not allowed to complain if tour not willing to help fix an issue. So I got involved.
This term on Council I have learnt alot about how the Twp operates- strengths and weaknesses. With Mayor Shantz not seeking re election, I see an opportunity to step up and continue to ask questions and share ideas. While I admit I dont' have all the answers, I do believe that stimulating conversation does lead to better decisions.
I also believe we need to have more over-sight in the Twp. That means Council questioning staff recommendations and plans-in a positive manner. And requiring the CAO amd Senior Managers to do the same in their roles.
Was I encouraged to run- when conversations happened over the last year, I received encouragement both around Council and from people I know. But no individuals or groups came to me to push me to run. Hope that answers your question.
Happy to chat on the phone or in person.
Eric
519-272-3441 cell
Sent from my Galaxy
THE FOLLOWING MAYOR CANDIDATES DID NOT RESPOND
Chane Ballantyne (no information provided to contact candidate on website)
Evan Burgess
Glenn Fern
WARD 1 Candidates
Nathan Cadeau, candidate
RESPONSE
Why do you feel you should continue representing Woolwich Township?I believe I have become a more effective councillor over the past four years, and I still have work I want to finish. When I first ran in 2022, I talked about bringing a proactive, transparent approach to council, strengthening Elmira’s downtown, protecting our environment, and making sure residents had a meaningful voice in local decisions.Four years later, I understand the Township, its finances, its infrastructure pressures, and the limits of municipal authority much better than I did when I started. I have also learned that good representation is often less glamorous than politics makes it sound. It means answering people, doing the homework, asking difficult questions, following issues through, and being willing to disagree when something doesn't make sense.How would you describe your leadership style?Direct, prepared, collaborative, and evidence-based. I'm comfortable challenging staff recommendations, other levels of government, or prevailing assumptions, but I try to do that based on evidence rather than politics.I ask a lot of questions because I want to understand how a decision will actually work, what it will cost, who bears that cost, and whether we will be able to demonstrate results afterward. I have also been willing to take on leadership roles, including chairing the Technical and Remediation Advisory Committee (TRAC), chairing the Elmira BIA, and co-chairing the Township's Pride working group. My approach to leadership is to be involved, do the work, listen to people, and take responsibility for the decisions made.I hope this helps! Again, thanks for the thoughtful questions. I've tried to include more information that you might find interesting on my website:www.ncadeau.com
Tony Stevens, Candidate
RESPONSE
For each of these answers I’ll try to give an answer in 100 words or less. I know that politicians can tend to ramble on. So I try to be short & precise
Why do you feel you should represent ward 1?
My goal is to represent citizens first by using my own knowledge & values combined with the skills of others. What the residents want is my first goal; however I don’t shut off my brain or ignore the wisdom of others when deliberating. I think specifically I can bring a younger, professional, parent and family “voice” to the council chambers. So much of Woolwich, Elmira specifically, is young families building their life here. And our kids will be the next generation that inherits Woolwich, so I want it to be cleaner, prosperous with a rich heritage when they start to raise their families
Please let me know if you have any questions about this. I would love to have a dialogue over this. These questions also help me solidify my voice and how/where I stand on various issues.
From,
Tony Stevens
Tina Weltz, candidate
RESPONSE
Thank you for reaching out! I have answered your questions below, if you would like to connect for any further discussion please let me know.
I believe Ward 1 deserves a representative who is approachable, willing to listen, prepared to ask questions and, most importantly, willing to do the work. I bring a strong work ethic, experience bringing people and organizations together, and a genuine commitment to making our community a place where people feel heard, supported and proud to live.
For me, representing Ward 1 isn't about having all the answers. It's about listening to residents, understanding the challenges we face and working collaboratively to find practical solutions.
THE FOLLOWING CANDIDATES DID NOT RESPOND
Paula Ferguson
THE FOLLOWING CANDIDATES DID NOT RESPOND FROM WARD 1
Paula Ferguson
Jason Godglick
Carlene Hawley
WARD 2 Candidates
Steven Haase
RESPONSE
hanks for reaching out and asking such thoughtful questions. It's great to hear from you. My responses:
Sheryl Tilley, Candidate
RESPONSE
Those are great questions. Thanks for reaching out to me with them. Below are my responses:
Why do you feel you should represent ward 2?
ALL CANDIDATES RESPONDED FOR WARD 2
WARD 3 CANDIDATES
Bonnie Bryant, candidate
RESPONSE
I feel I should be representing Ward 3 again as I have always stood up for this ward. I am a resident of Ward 3. I did not support the raising of taxes and the increase in pay for Mayor and Council. These increases are not sustainable. Affordability is a big issue for this ward. I know we need amenities and we are working towards making this happen. In July I was involved in a meeting with a commercial developer. I believe in open communication. Call me, email me, and I will try to get back to you quickly. I come out to events and public meetings, and look forward to speaking to residents. I may not always have the answers, but I will look into the issue. I believe in being involved and accessible.I believe in fair treatment and respect for everyone. I believe in working together and looking for solutions. There is not a one size fits all system.I would be happy to have a conversation. I will be at the Breslau Community for the Official Plan Public Meeting on Thursday from 5 - 7 if you are available.RegardsBonnie BJeff Carruthers, candidateRESPONSEThank you for reaching out.I am running for Ward 3 because I believe council needs practical, independent voices who will ask good questions, examine the details, and keep residents informed. My background in planning, operations, and process improvement—and my experience as Co-Chair Finance of Parent Council, President of a Condo Board and President of my College APICS society has taught me how to balance priorities. manage resources responsibly, and work toward practical solutions.Janet Cox, candidateThanks for reaching out. Are you a resident of Ward 3 in Woolwich? What community are you in/near? It's really important for me to hear from prospective voters as well as to communicate my position.Please check out my website:www.votejanetcox.ca to see the outline of my platform.I have lived in Woolwich for many years and believe that it is a beautiful place and a great community that I would like to continue to contribute to.Eryn KoncirThanks for reaching out - and for taking the time to be an informed voter. These are thoughtful questions.Why do I feel I should represent Ward 3?Ward 3 is growing and changing quickly, and I think it needs strong, engaged representation at the Council table. I’ve lived here for 10 years, I’m raising my family here, and over the years I’ve become increasingly involved in issues affecting our community. I’ve also appeared before Council myself and have seen firsthand how important it is for residents to have a councillor who is prepared, accessible and willing to speak up.Professionally, I’m a CPA, CA and small-business owner. I think that financial background is particularly valuable at a time when the Township is balancing significant growth and infrastructure needs with increasing pressure on taxpayers. I’m comfortable digging into budgets, asking questions and challenging assumptions — but also recognizing that municipal decisions aren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet. They affect people and communities.Thanks again for asking - I genuinely appreciate residents taking the time to ask candidates questions like these.ErynEryn Koncir, CPA, CACandidate for Ward 3 CouncillorWoolwich Townshiperynkoncirward3@gmail.comInstagram: @erynforward3ALL CANDIDATES RESPONDED FROM WARD 3
1. Why do you feel you should represent Woolwich?
2. Were you encouraged to run? And if so, by whom?
Eric Schwindt, Mayor Candidate
RESPONSE
|
Thanks for reaching out!
Why am I running..... I will admit that my family and friends ask me that!!
But I got involved in the past when I felt that Council wasn't asking enough questions on reccomendations, and I disagreed with decisions. One of my philosophies is your not allowed to complain if tour not willing to help fix an issue. So I got involved.
This term on Council I have learnt alot about how the Twp operates- strengths and weaknesses. With Mayor Shantz not seeking re election, I see an opportunity to step up and continue to ask questions and share ideas. While I admit I dont' have all the answers, I do believe that stimulating conversation does lead to better decisions.
I also believe we need to have more over-sight in the Twp. That means Council questioning staff recommendations and plans-in a positive manner. And requiring the CAO amd Senior Managers to do the same in their roles.
Was I encouraged to run- when conversations happened over the last year, I received encouragement both around Council and from people I know. But no individuals or groups came to me to push me to run. Hope that answers your question.
Happy to chat on the phone or in person.
Eric
519-272-3441 cell
Sent from my Galaxy
THE FOLLOWING MAYOR CANDIDATES DID NOT RESPOND
Chane Ballantyne (no information provided to contact candidate on website)
Evan Burgess
Glenn Fern
WARD 1 Candidates
Nathan Cadeau, candidate
RESPONSE
Why do you feel you should continue representing Woolwich Township?I believe I have become a more effective councillor over the past four years, and I still have work I want to finish. When I first ran in 2022, I talked about bringing a proactive, transparent approach to council, strengthening Elmira’s downtown, protecting our environment, and making sure residents had a meaningful voice in local decisions.Four years later, I understand the Township, its finances, its infrastructure pressures, and the limits of municipal authority much better than I did when I started. I have also learned that good representation is often less glamorous than politics makes it sound. It means answering people, doing the homework, asking difficult questions, following issues through, and being willing to disagree when something doesn't make sense.How would you describe your leadership style?Direct, prepared, collaborative, and evidence-based. I'm comfortable challenging staff recommendations, other levels of government, or prevailing assumptions, but I try to do that based on evidence rather than politics.I ask a lot of questions because I want to understand how a decision will actually work, what it will cost, who bears that cost, and whether we will be able to demonstrate results afterward. I have also been willing to take on leadership roles, including chairing the Technical and Remediation Advisory Committee (TRAC), chairing the Elmira BIA, and co-chairing the Township's Pride working group. My approach to leadership is to be involved, do the work, listen to people, and take responsibility for the decisions made.I hope this helps! Again, thanks for the thoughtful questions. I've tried to include more information that you might find interesting on my website:www.ncadeau.com
Tony Stevens, Candidate
RESPONSE
For each of these answers I’ll try to give an answer in 100 words or less. I know that politicians can tend to ramble on. So I try to be short & precise
Why do you feel you should represent ward 1?
My goal is to represent citizens first by using my own knowledge & values combined with the skills of others. What the residents want is my first goal; however I don’t shut off my brain or ignore the wisdom of others when deliberating. I think specifically I can bring a younger, professional, parent and family “voice” to the council chambers. So much of Woolwich, Elmira specifically, is young families building their life here. And our kids will be the next generation that inherits Woolwich, so I want it to be cleaner, prosperous with a rich heritage when they start to raise their families
Please let me know if you have any questions about this. I would love to have a dialogue over this. These questions also help me solidify my voice and how/where I stand on various issues.
From,
Tony Stevens
Tina Weltz, candidate
RESPONSE
Thank you for reaching out! I have answered your questions below, if you would like to connect for any further discussion please let me know.
Why do you feel you should represent Ward 1?
I want to represent Ward 1 because I believe in being an active, engaged member of the community, not just someone who shows up when it is time to ask for a vote. I have spent years working alongside community organizations, volunteers, local businesses and residents, and I understand the importance of listening to people and turning those conversations into action.I believe Ward 1 deserves a representative who is approachable, willing to listen, prepared to ask questions and, most importantly, willing to do the work. I bring a strong work ethic, experience bringing people and organizations together, and a genuine commitment to making our community a place where people feel heard, supported and proud to live.
For me, representing Ward 1 isn't about having all the answers. It's about listening to residents, understanding the challenges we face and working collaboratively to find practical solutions.
THE FOLLOWING CANDIDATES DID NOT RESPOND
Paula Ferguson
THE FOLLOWING CANDIDATES DID NOT RESPOND FROM WARD 1
Paula Ferguson
Jason Godglick
Carlene Hawley
WARD 2 Candidates
Steven Haase
RESPONSE
hanks for reaching out and asking such thoughtful questions. It's great to hear from you. My responses:
- Why do you feel you should represent ward 2?
- I live in Ward 2 and am raising a family here. I know many of its residents, and I feel the direct impact of Council's choices on my day-to-day life. I have experience managing budgets and making decisions that impact people's lives. I've lived in many different places during my life and am eager to bring the best of what I've seen to this place that I call home. I'm also an avid technologist and devoted humanist, and so I want to bring together the best of what's possible with technology while ensuring that the quality of service and our quality of life only improve.
- hope that answers your questions. I'm happy to follow up with anything else you want to know about.
Best,
Steve
Sheryl Tilley, Candidate
RESPONSE
Those are great questions. Thanks for reaching out to me with them. Below are my responses:
Why do you feel you should represent ward 2?
- I know and love the people, the community, and the land in Ward 2; it's more rural than Ward 1 and 3. I walk the Mill Race low bridge trail every Sunday. I have a desire to preserve our green spaces and farmland. It's the land and the people that make Woolwich unique. As a librarian, supervising and working in the St. Jacobs library, I thoroughly enjoyed serving the community and its people, from young families new to the area to seniors who have lived there all their lives. Our roots go deep, in many ways
ALL CANDIDATES RESPONDED FOR WARD 2
WARD 3 CANDIDATES
Bonnie Bryant, candidate
RESPONSE
I feel I should be representing Ward 3 again as I have always stood up for this ward. I am a resident of Ward 3. I did not support the raising of taxes and the increase in pay for Mayor and Council. These increases are not sustainable. Affordability is a big issue for this ward. I know we need amenities and we are working towards making this happen. In July I was involved in a meeting with a commercial developer. I believe in open communication. Call me, email me, and I will try to get back to you quickly. I come out to events and public meetings, and look forward to speaking to residents. I may not always have the answers, but I will look into the issue. I believe in being involved and accessible.I believe in fair treatment and respect for everyone. I believe in working together and looking for solutions. There is not a one size fits all system.I would be happy to have a conversation. I will be at the Breslau Community for the Official Plan Public Meeting on Thursday from 5 - 7 if you are available.RegardsBonnie BJeff Carruthers, candidateRESPONSEThank you for reaching out.I am running for Ward 3 because I believe council needs practical, independent voices who will ask good questions, examine the details, and keep residents informed. My background in planning, operations, and process improvement—and my experience as Co-Chair Finance of Parent Council, President of a Condo Board and President of my College APICS society has taught me how to balance priorities. manage resources responsibly, and work toward practical solutions.Janet Cox, candidateThanks for reaching out. Are you a resident of Ward 3 in Woolwich? What community are you in/near? It's really important for me to hear from prospective voters as well as to communicate my position.Please check out my website:www.votejanetcox.ca to see the outline of my platform.I have lived in Woolwich for many years and believe that it is a beautiful place and a great community that I would like to continue to contribute to.Eryn KoncirThanks for reaching out - and for taking the time to be an informed voter. These are thoughtful questions.Why do I feel I should represent Ward 3?Ward 3 is growing and changing quickly, and I think it needs strong, engaged representation at the Council table. I’ve lived here for 10 years, I’m raising my family here, and over the years I’ve become increasingly involved in issues affecting our community. I’ve also appeared before Council myself and have seen firsthand how important it is for residents to have a councillor who is prepared, accessible and willing to speak up.Professionally, I’m a CPA, CA and small-business owner. I think that financial background is particularly valuable at a time when the Township is balancing significant growth and infrastructure needs with increasing pressure on taxpayers. I’m comfortable digging into budgets, asking questions and challenging assumptions — but also recognizing that municipal decisions aren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet. They affect people and communities.Thanks again for asking - I genuinely appreciate residents taking the time to ask candidates questions like these.ErynEryn Koncir, CPA, CACandidate for Ward 3 CouncillorWoolwich Townshiperynkoncirward3@gmail.comInstagram: @erynforward3ALL CANDIDATES RESPONDED FROM WARD 3
