Mark Rose

Picton Ward One

Mark Rose is following in the footsteps of his mother and grandmother and wading into municipal politics. He is running for Ward 1 councillor because he is passionate about the past, present and future of his community. Rose cares about it deeply and is proud to be a ninth-generation United Empire Loyalist. That’s over 250 years of roots in the County. County is in his DNA. He’s lived in Picton for most of his adult life, and Rose feels that it’s an important time for him to give back to the community that helped raise him.

“I know the obstacles on the road ahead and I know that strong communities require leaders that can get things done. It’s no longer an option for our generation to sit on the sidelines. It’s time for people like myself to step up,”says Rose.

Rose says that one of the key concerns facing the County is seeing that the new hospital gets built. He is also concerned about affordable housing and says that it is no secret that there has been a housing crunch in the County for some time and that it has taken too long for there to be any action. Rose thinks that the County should get better at being proactive, instead of being reactive on the major issues facing the municipality.

“The same is true for our senior housing situation. As more and more of people become seniors, they’re going to need rooms, beds and care. Are we ready for this at the moment? I’m not so sure. Steps have been made in the right direction, but there is a lot of catching up to do,” says Rose.

When asked why the residents of Ward 1 should elect him in October, Rose stressed that he would work with his colleagues at Shire Hall to attract new business, to invest in efficient and effective solutions to our problems, and to work towards developing a sustainable municipality. Rose also feels that he brings the voice of a new generation to the table. He hopes to bring a more proactive attitude towards new ideas brought to the table and assures that he will bring new energy to every council meeting and committee he sits on.

“I can promise that I’m not interested in becoming a councillor just to show up at meetings and pass minutes from prior meetings,” says Rose.

Rose also says that being in touch is key for voters when electing a new councillor. He wants to make sure he’s really listening to people’s concerns and ideas during this process.

“I understand the complexities that come with trying to navigate the massive shift that has happened here in the County. It’s good to have an eye on the future while never forgetting the past,” says Rose.

As for priorities in the community, Rose ranks healthcare as the top priority. His second priority is the environment and a close third is education. With those three priorities top of mind, Rose hopes to bring his voice and his concerns all the way to a council chair.

As far as opportunities for the next council, Rose hopes that he can mirror the progress of the last 25 years. He thinks that councillors can do more as representatives of this community and wants to set the bar for a new level of commitment and engagement. One of the things important to him is to never stop bringing ideas to the table, even if it means thinking outside of the box. Being proactive is a big part of Rose’s platform and it’s one that rings true for a lot of people following County politics right now.

“Picton and the County have grown so much, but I really believe there is much more to come. We still have a lot of work to do. Our elementary schools closing is an example of a change, but a possible opportunity as well. The County needs to be positioned so that we can take advantage of new industries and opportunities so that people and families can sustain their lives here. I can’t wait to get to work,”says Rose.