This will be my last Councillor post.  Election season is well under way and on October 24 there  will be a new South Frontenac Township Council. For the first time in a decade there will be no acclamations.  Both of the last two Councils ended with over 50% of the Council being unelected.  Thank you to all the candidates and residents for making this a more democratic election.

On the Election

For the past four years I enjoyed working with Randy Ruttan as the co-Councillor in Loughborough.  He has been a consistent voice for improving our lakes and environment.  His initiative brought about the Lake Ecosystem Committee which has become a strong voice for lake protection.  He has spoken up for increased Council transparency and accountability, and for improved public participation in Township decision-making.  If re-elected Randy has volunteered to take over the monthly newsletters on Township affairs.  He will continue to be a valuable voice around the Council table and deserves to be reelected.

I would also like to give a shout-out to Adam Trucott in Bedford District.  Adam stands out as a younger local resident who has a strong commitment to improving the environment, protecting lakes and wetlands and keeping the Township an affordable place to live.  Adam would be an important addition to Council.  If you live in Bedford, or know people who do, check out Adam and consider voting for him.  More information can be found at https://www.adamforcouncil.com/

The Official Plan

After years of work, the new Official Plan (OP) was delayed until after the election. Approving the new OP is one of the most important decisions the new Council will make. All candidates need to be questioned on it.  Will they support controlling development to protect our agricultural and environmentally sensitive areas?  Will they support policies that strengthen our hamlets and keep them affordable? Will they recognize the dangers of climate change and support an OP that helps mitigate that threat? Question your candidates and keep the pressure on after the election.

Taking Control of Subdivisions

Another big issue that was held over from the last Council was South Frontenac taking back control of subdivision approval. Over the last decade the County Council has asserted their right to dictate how subdivisions will be developed in the Township.  That means that the majority of people who make the final decision on subdivisions in South Frontenac are not accountable to the residents of South Frontenac. Once again, we need to know from our candidates how they stand on taking subdivision control back from the County?

The last eight years have been a pleasure.  I have learned a lot, participated in some good fights that I think improved the Township and met many great people.  I am enjoying immersing myself in health care politics and speaking out more on how to improve our public health care system.

I look forward to seeing you around the Township.

Talk soon, Ross.