Editor's note: BarrieToday has asked council candidates in neighbouring Springwater and Essa townships to provide a synopsis of why they are running for public office. Municipal elections take place Oct. 24. The following is from Matt Garwood, who is running for council in Springwater Township in Ward 1. For more election coverage, visit our 2022 municipal election page by clicking here, where you can find candidate profiles and other election news.
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I’m Matt Garwood and I am running to be councillor for Ward 1 in the Township of Springwater.
Elmvale and the Township of Springwater have always been home. Ward 1 is growing and our community deserves local representation that will champion agriculture, our local Business Improvement Association (BIA), road safety, and the preservation of the heart of our community, the Elmvale Arena.
I grew up on a farm in Phelpston and have always called Springwater home. My grandfather, Gilbert Moreau, instilled in me a love for community and emphasized taking pride in where you come from. My family and I have always been involved in the community, especially the Elmvale Fall Fair, as an ambassador and the CNE Ambassador of the Fairs – an Ontario-wide public speaking competition focused on leadership and advocacy in agriculture.
I am an Elmvale Fall Fair director and continue to chair multiple committees and support the planning of the annual Elmvale Fall Fair. I am also the District 5 associate agricultural director and was recognized as a Top 10 Under 40 within the Canadian Fairs industry by the Canadian Association of Fairs and Exhibitions (CAFÉ) for my work with the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies (OAAS).
I have always been proud to be from Springwater and knew I wanted to serve our community.
I live in Elmvale with my wife Danielle, our daughter Ivy, with another child on the way. Danielle and I met 10 years ago and married in 2021. We truly enjoy living in Elmvale, a safe community in Ward 1 and feel confident raising our family here. I believe it is important to love where you live and know our children will feel the same.
I have been a member of the Georgian College team for over five years and enjoy working for a local employer. I am a system administrator at the college where I manage a student registration system while also teaching. I am also already involved in the Township of Springwater, as a member of the cultural advisory committee, advising council on the ways in which we can celebrate Springwater’s cultural resources and plan cultural events within our community.
Over the coming months, I will continue connecting with members of our community while listening to what matters most to residents and business owners.
Election day is Oct. 24, 2022. I look forward to earning your vote.
