Phil Prinzen

Bloomfield/Hallowell Ward Two

Born and raised in Prince Edward County, Phil Prinzen and his wife, Selena, and their two daughters work their dairy farm on Gilead Road.

The incumbent councillor believes Council should continue to engage all levels of government to tackle the housing crisis in the County. He said the need for affordable housing could be addressed by having new developments include a wide variety of housing. “This may also include looking at some greater density to allow either taller buildings or smaller building lots in serviced areas,” he said.

While Prinzen said some aspects of tourism management solved problems during the pandemic, he added, “I believe it is time we ease up some of the restrictions and the fines associated with the plan.” He said the Sandbanks prebooking system indirectly eased some of the strain of the influx of tourists in the municipalities.

When asked about the high costs of the waterworks system, Prinzen replied, “Even as a councillor who is not a waterworks ratepayer, I still believe I try to make the best decisions for those that are on it.”

He also thinks adequate attention is being given to heritage, environmental sustainability, stewardship and protection in the County. “Staff does a good job in their reports to give us the information we need to make an informed and confident decision.”

Prinzen has no problem with the size of Council but would be willing to revisit the issue. He said the present size offers “a good blend of representation for all people.” He also expressed the fear that a substantially smaller Council could create a Council comprised of full-time politicians and not people who are on Council to help the community.