Siobhan Harrison

NORTH MARYSBURGH WARD 8

Siobhan Harrison says she is running for council to ensure that the County is a thriving place that people of all income levels can afford to call home for generations to come.

“I believe we need practical, responsible and forward-thinking leadership, with a focus on making the most of every taxpayer dollar while protecting the rural character of our community,” says the longtime North Marysburgh resident who now lives in Picton. “I have long-standing relationships there, understand the rural character and the issues that matter to residents. My family also has deep roots in North Marysburgh, with generations actively involved in farming, commercial fishing and political life.”

Ms. Harrison says the biggest challenge facing Council is managing and reducing municipal debt while dealing with aging infrastructure and rising costs. “We need to spend taxpayers’ money wisely, carefully assess new commitments and ensure that borrowing is justified by genuine needs and long-term benefits. By improving budget scrutiny, identifying efficiencies and prioritizing essential infrastructure, we can work toward reducing debt and easing the pressure on future budgets. Financial discipline today will help protect the County’s ability to meet its responsibilities tomorrow.”

After a career in investment management, she moved to the County and worked as Coordinator of Operations at Pathways to Independence in Belleville for the next 20 years. Pathways is a notfor- profit organization supporting more than 280 people with developmental disabilities and acquired brain injuries and employing approximately 500 people. “This role required organization, accountability, and daily sound decision- making,” she notes.

Another challenge facing the County is housing affordability, which she says could be eased with the development of tiny home communities and secondary or garden suites as long-term housing rentals. “That being said, building more housing is only part of the solution. We also need an economy that provides good local employment and wages that allow people to afford their rent, home ownership and everyday living expenses. A thriving community needs to be a place where young families, workers and seniors can afford to live, not simply visit.”

On the issue of water and wastewater infrastructure, Ms. Harrison says: “I believe we should prioritize maintaining our existing systems and carefully assess the need for expansion against realistic population-growth projections. I do not support a 20-kilometre pipeline from Wellington to Picton as I do not believe that it is needed at this time.”

She is opposed to the use of strong mayor powers because “residents elect a Council to represent their interests, debate issues and make decisions collectively. That democratic process matters.” And she adds that her goal as councillor would be “to help ensure North Marysburgh remains a strong, welcoming and sustainable community for future generations. I bring professional financial experience, management skills, a strong connection to North Marysburgh and a commitment to responsible decision making. My commitment to residents is simple: I will listen, ask questions and follow through. I will work collaboratively, focus on practical solutions and always keep our community’s best interests in mind.”