BarrieToday recently reached out to each candidate for city council in Barrie's 10 wards for a 300-word profile in their own words about their background and why people should vote for them.
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I bought my first home in 1975 on Cook Street in Barrie after graduating from Eastview Secondary School and then Georgian College.
I have enjoyed a career as a top international corporate trainer, living and working across North America, but I never relinquished my permanent Barrie residence. My children were all raised in Barrie and my grandchildren are now continuing the generational connection by growing up here.
I’ve been employed by multiple international organizations where I honed my negotiating skills and developed a strong understanding of how all levels of business and government function. Bringing people together for a common goal by implementing programs and solving problems, continues with my current community involvement.
I’ve volunteered at an executive level beginning with Little’s Hill Players in 1978 and with my tenure as president of both Georgian Lakelands Tourist Association and Huronia Tourist Association.
Other activities include: Barrie Minor Baseball coach, Barrie Soccer coach, Barrie Rotary member and 25 years of fostering for Dachshund Rescue. My ability to act as a conduit between public and private agencies as well as local business and community organizations was first proven when I founded the Barrie Huronia Balloon Association in 1981.
Ward 1 is a very special and unique area, not only because we house the hospital and college, but because we are the original Barrie and enjoy the stability that accompanies that.
Ward 1 needs to have a strong, experienced voice in all political arenas. With the birth of my grandchildren, we are now a fifth generation Barrie family. My connection to my city is solid. My accomplishments and experience are documented.
The issues of taxation, intensification, road safety, infrastructure, affordable housing, industry growth, budgetary spending and capital investments are similar in every ward. The challenge is not in recognizing our needs and wants, but how to attain them responsibly and efficiently.
We must maintain the history and community of the east end while looking forward to increased prosperity.
I will stand up for Ward 1 and we will be heard.
