LAMBTON VOTES: Plympton-Wyoming candidate profiles

October 23, 2026

The Independent sent a questionnaire to each candidate for Plympton-Wyoming Council. Below are the unedited responses from the candidates who responded to the survey:

MAYORAL CANDIDATES

Age: N/A
Work Experience: Retired from Shell Canada
Political Experience: Councillor 2018-2022, Mayor 2022 to present .

Why do you want to serve Plympton-Wyoming mayor?
The last four years Council has dealt with many concerns and issues. We have established a plan to address those items and we are moving forward making good, positive progress. We know there is much more to be done and I want to be there to help accomplish it.

What is the most important issue facing the Town in the next four years ?
Economic development and addressing our infrastructure concerns. As our town continues to grow, we need to ensure there is economic growth and we continue to improve and develop our infrastructure. We have created an Economic Development Strategic Plan to identify our needs and position ourselves to apply for government grants as they become available. In the last four years we have spent $20 Million on our roads alone. This item was high on the wish list of our residents and we are addressing it. In the next 10 years we are committed to investing approximately $24.5 Million on infrastructure alone.

One of the stated goals of the last council was to attract new business/commercial services to Camlachie. What the town be doing to attract the services needed for that rapidly growing area?
There actually has been some growth in the Camlachie area but not at the rate we had hoped for. Lake Life has expanded to a new location and with a Taste of Heaven Farm Store moving to the Community. And I understand a couple more businesses to open soon. Having shared that, council and staff are constantly looking for available land so commercial service can be established for our residents. The county is reviewing the OPA . As a county councillor I can ensure there is some land in the area redesignate commercial land to fill the needs of our community.

Do you think the municipality should allow a transport truck washing station to operate with in meters of established homes?
I do have some concern and reservations about commercial and industrial property being located in proximity to homes especially when one should always consider the health and welfare of residents. As there is a case before the tribunal, I do not feel I should comment on this question.

According to Plympton- Wyomings’s 2026 Zoning Map , there is only one piece of industrial land in the Municipality ( north of the railroad line on Mandaumin Road . Should the Municipality look at creating an industrial park considering the proximity to the 402. Yes there is one piece of property that is zoned Industrial ,and it is currently privately owned. If that Property ever became available , I am sure the Municipality would consider the options at that time, it would be beneficial to have an Industrial Park but we would need to have some available land and services provided to the area .

One of the stated goals of the last Council was to attract new business/ Commercial services to the urban areas, specifically Camlachie. There doesn’t appear to be any significant new additions in the Camlachie area where the housing growth is still booming. What can/ should municipal government be doing to attract the services needed for that rapidly growing area? There actually has been some growth in the Camlachie area but not at the rate we had hoped for. Lake Life has expanded to a new location , and with a Taste of Heaven Farm Store moving into the Community. There is a renewed enthusiasm at Sawmill Golf Course and I understand a couple more businesses to open soon. Having shared that – Council and Staff are constantly looking for available land so commercial service can be established for our residents. As we know, the County is reviewing the OPA .As a County Councillor I can ensure there is some land in the area re designated commercial land to fill the needs of our community.

Plympton- Wyoming’s Mayor has strong Mayor powers …

Choosing to appoint the Municipality’s CAO – NO
Hiring certain Municipal Department heads and establishing and re- organizing departments – NO
Creating committees of Council ,assigning their functions and appointing chairs and vice chairs of committees of council – NO
Preparing the Municipal Budget – YES – I work with Staff to prepare same .
Veto Budget or portions of the budget passed by Council . NO
Proposing Certain Municipal by laws if the Mayor is of the opinion that the proposed by -law could potentially advance a provincial priority identified in the regulation. NO
Vetoing certain by laws if the head of council is of the opinion that all or part of the by law could potentially interfere with a provincial priority. NO
Bring forward matters for Council consideration if the Head of council is of hte Opinion that considering the matter could potentially advance a provincial priority . NO

I feel the residents elected six members of Council and myself to work together as a Team for the betterment of the Municipality . It is not a dictatorship so we work together.

Age: 47

Work experience: 26 years Managing and running a business

Political experience: 4 years on council chair of water and sewer and chair of st Clair Conservation Authority

Why do you want to serve on Plympton-Wyoming council?

I’m running for mayor because I care about this community and believe we can do better. Residents deserve straight answers, responsible spending and a town that makes it easier to get things done. My priorities are fixing our infrastructure, supporting local businesses and making sure people feel heard. Every dollar we spend comes from someone who worked hard for it, and I’ll respect that. I’ll be accessible, listen to concerns and follow through. I’m prepared to work hard for the people paying the bills.

What is the most important issue facing the town in the next four years? What should the town’s response be?

Fixing our water, sewer and drainage infrastructure. Families shouldn’t have to worry about sewage backing up into their basements when it rains. We need a clear plan to address problem areas, with costs, timelines and updates residents can follow. Before approving more development, we need to know the system can handle it. Growth should benefit our community without making existing problems worse. I would put essential infrastructure first, pursue funding and focus on lasting repairs. Residents deserve confidence that their homes are protected and their money is being spent wisely.

Should a transport truck washing station operate within metres of established homes? Where would be acceptable, particularly for vehicles involved in biohazard remediation?

No. A truck wash belongs in a suitable industrial area with proper separation from homes. Residents shouldn’t have to deal with truck traffic, noise, lights and wash water right beside their property. If vehicles involved in biohazard cleanup would be washed there, we need clear answers about what they carry and how the wash water and waste would be handled. An acceptable location needs safe truck access, appropriate services and all required approvals. Those questions should be answered before approval, with residents given a chance to have their concerns heard.

Should the municipality look at creating an industrial park near Highway 402?

Yes. Our location near Highway 402 gives us an opportunity to attract businesses, create jobs and broaden our tax base. That could help take pressure off homeowners. We need to look at business demand, servicing costs, highway access and effects on nearby homes and farmland before committing taxpayers’ money. I would work with landowners and businesses to develop a practical plan. We also need to protect the commercial and industrial land we already have. I want Plympton-Wyoming to be a place where people can work and build businesses as well as live.

What should municipal government do to attract businesses and services to Camlachie?

We need to actively reach out to businesses instead of waiting for them to come to us. Ask residents what services they need, then work with businesses and property owners to help bring those services here. Make sure suitable commercial land is available, zoning is clear and applications move forward without unnecessary delays. Businesses should find helpful people and straight answers at town hall. We also need to support those already operating here. As Camlachie grows, we should plan for shops and services alongside housing so residents can meet more of their everyday needs close to home.

Plympton-Wyoming’s mayor has strong mayor powers, granted by the province.

Please indicate under which situations you would use the powers;

Choosing to appoint the municipality’s chief administrative officer. Yes
Hiring certain municipal department heads and establishing and re-organizing departments. No
Creating committees of council, assigning their functions and appointing the chairs and vice-chairs of committees of council. No
Proposing the municipal budget Yes
Veto budget or portions of the budget passed by council. No
Proposing certain municipal by-laws if the mayor is of the opinion that the proposed by-law could potentially advance a provincial priority identified in regulation. No
Vetoing certain by-laws if the head of council is of the opinion that all or part of the by-law could potentially interfere with a provincial priority. No
Bringing forward matters for council consideration if the head of council is of the opinion that considering the matter could potentially advance a provincial priority. Yes

I believe in working with council, listening to staff and hearing from residents. I would use the authority to appoint the CAO, with input from council, to make sure we have the right leadership to deliver on our priorities. I would also bring forward the budget and matters that need council’s attention. My approach would be to build support, respect each council member’s voice and get things done. ResidentsChoosing to appoint the municipality’s chief administrative officer.

DEPUTY MAYORAL CANDIDATES

My work experience consists of 27 years of municipal work as Zoning Administrator and Deputy Clerk.

My political experience is 12 years as Councillor and 4 years as Deputy Mayor.

Why do you want to serve on Plympton-Wyoming council?

I would like to serve another term as Deputy Mayor because I have an understanding of our community and have the best interest of the residents first.

What is the most important issue facing the town in the next four years? What should be the township’s response to it?

The most important issue facing Plympton-Wyoming at this time is the completion of a pump station for the improvement of sanitary sewage and waste water.

Do you think the municipality should allow a transport truck washing station to operate within metres of established homes? Where would be the acceptable location for such a facility, particularly one designated to deal with vehicles involved in biohazard remediation?

A transport truck washing station near established homes will create problems. It should be located in an industrial area with a minimum distance from residential uses.

According to Plympton-Wyoming’s 2026 Zoning Map, there is only one piece of industrial land in the municipality (north of the railroad line on Mandaumin Road). Should the municipality look at creating an industrial park considering its proximity to Highway 402?

The proposed zoning map indicates industrial land which should be in an area near Oil Heritage and the 402 intersection; however lands may not be available at this location.

One of the stated goals of the last council was to attract new businesses/commercial services to the urban areas, specifically Camlachie. There doesn’t appear to be any significant new additions in the Camlachie area where the housing growth is still booming. What can/should municipal government be doing to attract the services needed for that rapidly growing area?

Commercial area in Camlachie is needed; however there is very limited property available at this time. Council and staff are very aware and alert for any proposals.

Should the new mayor use the Strong Mayor Powers to veto a decision of council, would you vote to overturn the mayor’s veto?

Strong Mayor Powers are not part of the democratic process.

Age: 51

Work experience: Lifelong Plympton-Wyoming business owner with extensive experience in agriculture, livestock, cash-crop farming, land development and economic growth. My work has required practical knowledge of planning, infrastructure, municipal policies, government approval processes, budgeting and long-term investment. It has also allowed me to build productive business and industry relationships in Plympton-Wyoming and across Canada.

Political experience:I am new to elected politics, but not to municipal processes. Through agriculture, business and development, I have worked extensively with municipal staff, councils, government agencies and professional consultants. I closely follow local issues and understand the policies, services and infrastructure decisions that affect our community.

Why do you want to serve on Plympton-Wyoming Council?
I believe my practical experience in agriculture, business and development would bring a valuable perspective to Council. I understand how municipal policies and decisions affect residents, farmers and businesses, and where processes can be made clearer, more predictable and more effective. I want to bring common sense, careful decision-making and a solutions-focused approach to the Council table. Plympton-Wyoming is where I was raised, where my wife and I chose to raise our family and where I have built my businesses. I want to help create positive opportunities for the entire community.

What is the most important issue facing the Town over the next four years? What should the Town’s response be?
Aging and inadequate infrastructure will be one of the Town’s greatest challenges. Residents are experiencing flooding, deteriorating roads and increasing pressure on drainage, water and wastewater systems. Council must move beyond short-term repairs by identifying priorities, establishing realistic timelines and coordinating projects so public money is used effectively. Growth must also contribute fairly toward the infrastructure it requires without placing an unreasonable burden on existing taxpayers and ratepayers. We need practical plans, responsible budgets and the determination to move essential projects forward. It is time to turn planning into visible results.

Do you think the municipality should allow a transport-truck washing station to operate within metres of established homes? Where would such a facility be acceptable, particularly one handling vehicles involved in biohazard remediation?

A transport-truck washing facility, particularly one handling biohazard remediation, should not operate beside established homes without appropriate zoning, studies and safeguards. A suitable location would be properly designated commercial or industrial land with adequate separation from residential properties and access to appropriate roads and services. Before approval, the Town must consider wastewater treatment, containment, drainage, traffic, noise, odour and environmental requirements. Clear policies are needed to address conflicting land uses so residents and businesses understand where these operations may locate and what protections will be required.

According to Plympton-Wyoming’s 2026 zoning map, there is only one piece of industrial land in the municipality. Should the municipality consider creating an industrial park near Highway 402?

The Town should examine whether additional industrial land is needed, including locations with convenient access to Highway 402. Industrial development could create employment, attract investment and expand the municipal tax base. However, establishing an industrial park must be supported by market demand, appropriate transportation access, available water and wastewater capacity, infrastructure costs and compatibility with neighbouring properties and agriculture. This should be considered through the Town’s economic-development and land-use planning processes before taxpayers are asked to fund or service additional land. The goal should be responsible, well-planned growth—not industrial designation without a demonstrated need.

One of the stated goals of the last council was to attract new businesses/commercial services to the urban areas, specifically Camlachie. There doesn’t appear to be any significant new additions in the Camlachie area where the housing growth is still booming. What can/should municipal government be doing to attract the services needed for that rapidly growing area?

Municipal government cannot force businesses to locate in Camlachie, but it can create the conditions needed to attract them. The Town should use proactive and flexible zoning that permits an appropriate range of commercial and mixed uses without requiring every proposal to undergo a lengthy rezoning process. The land-needs study has already identified an ample supply of service-ready land in the area. Council should ensure those lands are appropriately zoned, supported by infrastructure and actively promoted. Clear requirements, predictable approval processes and cooperation with property owners and investors can help turn available land into the services a growing community needs.

COUNCILLOR CANDIDATES

Age: 33

Work Experience: Municipal government professional

Political Experience: Councillor since 2022, serving on several additional committees.

Why do you want to serve on Plympton-Wyoming council?

Serving my community is part of who I am, including as a volunteer/on-call firefighter and volunteering at events with the events committee. Serving on council has been another way to give back and have a positive impact on our community. After four years as a councillor, I can say it’s one of the most rewarding things I’ve done. I take pride in listening to residents, helping where I can and advocating for our community. I hope to continue that work and do what I can to protect what makes Plympton-Wyoming so special and make it an even better place to live.

What is the most important issue facing the town in the next four years? What should be the township’s response to it?

We face both community-wide challenges and issues specific to individual neighbourhoods/areas, and it’s important we find solutions for all of them. Flooding and aging infrastructure, particularly in Wyoming, require long-term solutions supported by meaningful budget commitments. Recent efforts to mitigate flooding are good, but we need to stay committed to the long-term solutions. Deteriorating roads and parks are also an ongoing issue. Investments have increased in these areas, but progress needs to continue. We also still need commercial development to meet the needs of our growth, particularly the Camlachie area. Expanding the commercial base provides added services for residents while helping offset the tax burden on residential properties.

Do you think the municipality should allow a transport truck washing station to operate with meters of established homes? Where would be the acceptable location for such a facility, particularly one designated to deal with vehicles involved in biohazard remediation?

No, I think municipalities need to be concerned about locating industrial type uses, especially if they involve biohazard remediation, near established homes or in areas contrary to existing zoning. I recognize the value of commercial and industrial businesses in the community, but land-use compatibility needs to be carefully considered. I am not a professional planner, but I would expect potential impacts on neighbouring properties, including environmental and nuisance concerns, to be thoroughly evaluated. Generally, I believe uses that could create significant impacts on surrounding properties are better suited to appropriately designated/zoned lands with adequate separation from residential areas.

According to Plympton-Wyoming’s 2026 Zoning Map, there is only one piece of industrial land in the municipality (north of the railroad line on Mandaumin Road). Should the municipality look at creating an industrial park considering its proximity to Highway 402?

Industrial lands are highly sought after and for good economic reasons. Our proximity to the 402 is valuable, but location often isn’t enough. Investors are looking for fully serviced, shovel ready land and neighbouring municipalities already have competitive inventory available. We should explore these opportunities but need to carefully evaluate servicing costs and market demand. A recent report identified a price of nearly $6 million to extend sewers to Reeces Corners, which likely increases in cost if extended further to the 402. Spending this amount of tax dollars to service land without secured investment would carry significant risk. Provincial and federal funding needs to be a major component to support this type of project.

One of the stated goals of the last council was to attract new businesses/commercial services to the urban areas, specifically Camlachie. There doesn’t appear to be any significant new additions in the Camlachie area where the housing growth is still booming. What can/should municipal government be doing to attract the services needed for that rapidly growing area?

Commercial development in Camlachie has been a priority I’ve advocated for over the last four years (and continues to be now). Two important steps the Town can do to help: Expand the town’s Community Improvement Plan (CIP) to include Camlachie; and address the availability of lands designated for commercial. The existing CIP provides incentives for commercial improvements in Wyoming, and similar incentives can be used along Lakeshore Road in Camlachie. The Town is currently working on getting the CIP expanded. For availability of land, the County’s official plan review confirmed Plympton-Wyoming has more than enough lands already designated for residential. The town should redesignate suitable lands currently earmarked for residential to create more commercial options. I believe both these things will help get this accomplished.

Should the new mayor use the Strong Mayor Powers to veto a decision of council, would you vote to overturn the mayor’s veto?

I have consistently opposed Strong Mayor Powers and spoke strongly against the expansion to Plympton-Wyoming. I believe in the fundamental democratic principle that council decisions are made by the majority vote of our community’s elected representatives. I do not believe a mayor should use these powers to override a decision supported by the majority of council. With that said, that means I would support voting to overturn a Strong Mayor’s Veto to ensure that fundamental democratic process remains intact.

Age: 64

Work Experience: Scotiabank – 20 years IT / Project Leader / Marketing Manager, London Life – 22 years Project Manager

Political experience: I am not a politician. I have served on various advocacy groups around Tenant Rights and Legal Services, education and health services.

Why do you want to serve on Plympton-Wyoming council?

I have always given back to the community that I reside in. I have served on school councils, tenant advocacy groups, church boards, and currently serve on a major hospital Care partnership. As a resident of PW, I see this as a natural next step in serving.

What is the most important issue facing the town in the next four years? What should be the township’s response to it?

Cost of living, including property taxes. Plympton-Wyoming Councillors must ensure that every dollar spent directly benefits residents, with a focus on keeping taxes lower. This past council has a record of poor spending decisions.

Do you think the municipality should allow a transport truck washing station to operate with meters of established homes? Where would be the acceptable location for such a facility, particularly one designated to deal with vehicles involved in biohazard remediation?

Definitely NOT. The past council failed in their elected duty to decide on this, resulting in the matter going to the Ontario Land Tribunal. This is costing Wanstead residents and taxpayers of PW tens of thousands of dollars in legal fees. Areas such as the large parcel of land at Heritage Road and 402, currently housing a gas station, could serve as a location for this type of facility.

According to Plympton-Wyoming’s 2026 Zoning Map, there is only one piece of industrial land in the municipality (north of the railroad line on Mandaumin Road). Should the municipality look at creating an industrial park considering its proximity to Highway 402?

The municipality should start looking at various options for a new industrial park within the 402 corridors.

One of the stated goals of the last council was to attract new businesses/commercial services to the urban areas, specifically Camlachie. There doesn’t appear to be any significant new additions in the Camlachie area where the housing growth is still booming. What can/should municipal government be doing to attract the services needed for that rapidly growing area?

Municipal Government should work with small business owners and builders to incentive the building of commercial business within the area

Should the new mayor use the Strong Mayor Powers to veto a decision of council, would you vote to overturn the mayor’s veto?

The new mayor should not use the Strong Mayor Powers to veto decisions of council. As a matter of principle, I would vote to overturn the mayor’s veto.

Work experience: I have over 18 years of property management experience and own a local property management business here in Plympton Wyoming. My work brings together policy, management and advocacy, including budgets, maintenance and residents’ concerns. My experience also includes serving as Operations Manager at London’s BMO Centre, overseeing daily operations, sports leagues, tournaments and regional events. I also helped secure major funding for regional sports and recreation initiatives through municipal and provincial processes. I hold a diploma in Medical Administration and have pursued Not-for-Profit Management studies through Western University.

Political experience: I am a first-time municipal candidate, with involvement in municipal meetings, planning proposals, bylaws, resident advocacy and public consultation. My community work also includes volunteer leadership, governance and organizing meetings.

Why do you want to serve on Plympton-Wyoming council?

I care about the people who call this place home. Residents deserve someone who listens, asks questions and follows through. My property management and community experience have taught me the importance of understanding concerns, working through problems and being accountable. I want to bring that practical experience and willingness to work to council, represent our community, make informed decisions and explain those decisions honestly.

What is the most important issue facing the town in the next four years? What should be the township’s response to it?

Managing growth while looking after what we already have. Our roads, drainage and municipal services need to keep pace with development. I would support clear infrastructure priorities, identifying funding and reporting progress to residents. We also need housing choices for young people and seniors. Those decisions should consider long-term costs, available services and effects on existing neighbourhoods. Responsible planning means understanding what we can support and how we will pay for it.

Do you think the municipality should allow a transport truck washing station to operate within metres of established homes? Where would be the acceptable location for such a facility, particularly one designated to deal with vehicles involved in biohazard remediation?

I couldn’t possibly comment

According to Plympton-Wyoming’s 2026 Zoning Map, there is only one piece of industrial land in the municipality (north of the railroad line on Mandaumin Road). Should the municipality look at creating an industrial park considering its proximity to Highway 402?

Yes, I would support exploring that opportunity. Before committing, we need to understand business demand, employment-land needs, servicing capacity, road access and the financial implications. We also need to consider effects on farmland and nearby homes. Phased development could help match investment to demand. The goal should be practical opportunities for local jobs and businesses, supported by a clear plan and responsible use of public money.

One of the stated goals of the last council was to attract new businesses/commercial services to the urban areas, specifically Camlachie. There doesn’t appear to be any significant new additions in the Camlachie area where the housing growth is still booming. What can/should municipal government be doing to attract the services needed for that rapidly growing area?

I would begin by listening to residents and business owners about the services they need and the barriers businesses face. We need suitable commercial land and servicing, clear application requirements and a review of unnecessary zoning or application barriers. Working with Lambton County economic development and supporting existing businesses would also be important. Municipal government cannot guarantee that a business will open, but it can help create practical opportunities for everyday services closer to home.

Should the new mayor use the Strong Mayor Powers to veto a decision of council, would you vote to overturn the mayor’s veto?

I would be prepared to vote to overturn a veto if, after reviewing the reasons and evidence, I believed council’s decision remained in the community’s best interests. That would not be an automatic response. Residents elect the whole council, and each member has a responsibility to exercise independent judgment and explain their position publicly. I believe the mayor and council should work together, with informed decisions and accountability to the people they represent.

Age: 60

Work Experience: I have spent more than 35 years in management in the security and communications sector. My work has included preparing and managing budgets, leading teams, overseeing contracts, and making decisions as costs, technology and economic conditions change. That experience has taught me to look closely at the details, ask practical questions and consider the long-term cost of a decision—not just its immediate appeal.

Political experience: I was involved in community issues including drainage, lakeshore regulations, development and environmental advocacy. I am completing my first 4-year term on Council and Planning. During this term, I also served on the Board of Directors for the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority, the Fire Executive Committee, and the Lambton County Regional Trails Committee.

Why do you want to serve on Plympton-Wyoming council?

Plympton-Wyoming is home to me and to you. Its farmers, families, businesses and volunteers give our community its character and shape its vision. Council’s responsibility is to listen, determine what is possible and turn those priorities into responsible decisions. I want to continue serving because those decisions will shape our roads, services, shoreline and economy for years to come. Over the past four years, I’ve learned the value of doing the detailed work: listening to residents, reviewing costs and asking questions. I’m prepared to keep doing that work while helping our community manage growth, maintain infrastructure and use taxpayers’ money wisely.

What is the most important issue facing the town in the next four years? What should be the township’s response to it?

Aging infrastructure is the most important issue facing Plympton-Wyoming, particularly in Wyoming and growing Camlachie. The underground systems we cannot see are the foundation for the homes, businesses and public spaces we can. Council has approved seeking funding to update the wastewater master plan so we can reassess priorities as conditions change. It has also approved its largest increase in investment in this area. Over the next four years, we need to keep planning upgrades, seeking outside funding to offset costs and maintaining healthy reserves. That is how we address urgent needs while preparing for the future.

Do you think the municipality should allow a transport truck washing station to operate with meters of established homes? Although “metres” does not specify a distance, No, I would not support placing a transport truck washing station close to established homes.

Where would be the acceptable location for such a facility, particularly one designated to deal with vehicles involved in biohazard remediation? The current zoning bylaw permits motor vehicle washing establishments in certain zones, but a transport-truck wash appears to require a site-specific application. An appropriate location should be determined through planning policies, address land use conflicts, zoning, environmental and engineering studies, and applicable provincial and federal requirements. The review must consider what the facility washes and how wastewater is managed.

According to Plympton-Wyoming’s 2026 Zoning Map, there is only one piece of industrial land in the municipality (north of the railroad line on Mandaumin Road). Should the municipality look at creating an industrial park considering its proximity to Highway 402? Highway 402 access makes the idea worth considering if a clear need emerges, but I do not see a municipally developed industrial park as a current priority. Our immediate focus should be upgrading existing infrastructure and keeping budgets manageable. Before committing public money, council would need evidence of demand, a suitable location, servicing costs and a realistic plan for who would pay. Industrial parks elsewhere can require substantial taxpayer investment; I would not want residents subsidizing one without a demonstrated benefit. I have not heard residents identify an industrial park as a priority for Plympton-Wyoming.

One of the stated goals of the last council was to attract new businesses/commercial services to the urban areas, specifically Camlachie. There doesn’t appear to be any significant new additions in the Camlachie area where the housing growth is still booming. What can/should municipal government be doing to attract the services needed for that rapidly growing area? Camlachie’s growth has created demand for nearby services. Attracting them was a council priority yet work on economic development only came forward earlier this year. I have advocated for clearer policies for small businesses, agritourism and value-added farm enterprises, including opportunities on smaller agriculture zoned parcels throughout this current term. Council should review application costs, timelines and site-plan requirements with local entrepreneurs. Site planning must protect public safety, but requirements should be proportionate to the scale and impacts of a proposal. Staff and applicants should work together to find practical solutions. Zoning and policies should also recognize market demand and its relevance to decision making in the retail and commercial service market. Limiting growth because it may cause competition with another similar product in an outside area is also unnecessarily restrictive. Market health, demand, populations, conveniences and entrepreneurship, are all driven by the economic conditions – we need to be responsive to those opportunities.

Should the new mayor use the Strong Mayor Powers to veto a decision of council, would you vote to overturn the mayor’s veto?

NO and YES Council is voted in by the people who expect all to have a voice at the table.

Age – 62

Work Experience: 2008-2024 Patient Transfer Specialist, 2013-2024 Business Owner – Vandercare Patient Transfer

Political experience: first time candidate

Why do you want to serve on Plympton-Wyoming council?

I have lived in Plympton-Wyoming for more than 40 years. I grew up in a large family on Michigan Line near Bright’s Grove and moved to the village of Wyoming shortly after getting married to my husband Ron in 1983. After years of raising a family, volunteering in the community, and working as a Patient Transfer Specialist, I feel like there is more I can do to serve my community. I am running for council to bring my life experience, commitment and love for Plympton-Wyoming to the council table.

What is the most important issue facing the town in the next four years? What should be the township’s response to it?

The most important issue facing the town of Plympton-Wyoming is managing its growth. The town needs to ensure adequate infrastructure to facilitate that growth. This includes adequate sewage capacity, ensuring safe traffic flows in new housing areas, and proper drainage systems for surface area water. All while maintaining our vibrant agriculture sector.

Do you think the municipality should allow a transport truck washing station to operate with meters of established homes? Where would be the acceptable location for such a facility, particularly one designated to deal with vehicles involved in biohazard remediation?

I do not think the municipality should allow a transport washing station to operate within meters of established homes. Trucks with bio-hazard material could contaminate neighbouring properties. In addition, truck traffic would cause significant noise and potentially damage less travelled roads – costing the taxpayer’s money. It makes more sense to locate this type of facility on County Road 21 near the truck stop.

According to Plympton-Wyoming’s 2026 Zoning Map, there is only one piece of industrial land in the municipality {north of the railroad line on Mandaumin Road). Should the municipality look at creating an industrial park considering its proximity to Highway 402?

In my opinion, this is not a priority at this time. There is a business industrial park on London Line in Sarnia just a few kilometers outside our municipalities boundaries that has struggled to attract businesses since 2003. I think our valuable resources would be better spent fostering our existing relationship with SLEP (Sarnia Lambton Economic Partnership). In return, SLEP can help advise council on attracting other businesses to Plympton-Wyoming and Camlachie.

One of the stated goals of the last council was to attract new businesses/commercial services to the urban areas, specifically Camlachie. There doesn’t appear to be any significant new additions in the Camlachie area where the housing growth is still booming. What can/should municipal government be doing to attract the services needed for that rapidly growing area?

By deepening our partnership with SLEP, we could utilize their ability to identify what businesses would be viable in the area. Then they would be able to advise council on the processes to attract business. In addition, we need to hear from our residents to identify the gaps in business and services to ensure we are meeting the needs of the folks moving to these newly developed areas. Council also needs to be proactive with zoning and infrastructure decisions to make starting a business here more attractive.

Should the new mayor use the Strong Mayor Powers to veto a decision of council, would you vote to overturn the mayor’s veto?

I do not think it’s appropriate for the mayor to use Strong Mayor Powers to override council. Councillors are elected by their community to work together with the mayor and deputy mayor to improve the lives of their constituents. I don’t think it’s a big ask to expect seven people to work together to come to a consensus, or at least a majority. One person should not be able to override the democratic process. I would vote to overturn the mayor’s veto.