My story begins in a small rural town in the Ottawa Valley. Raised by two loving, dedicated and entrepreneurial parents, I grew up understanding the struggles of self-employment, and the rewards of hard work and determination.

 

I worked hard to put myself through both college and university, where I studied Political Science and Business Administration. From there I committed myself to a start-up business in the Toronto area, and transformed it into a successful venture with millions of dollars in sales under its belt. A business that I have operated for over 22 years.

 

Fast forward to about eight years ago, when I moved that business to the quiet municipality of Marmora and Lake. This area  reminded me of where my story began. I was drawn to this welcoming community with sparkling waterways, fresh air and multi-use trails to explore,  

 

Since that time, alongside my partner Amanda, I’ve invested in and have made a life for myself and for my family in Marmora and Lake. I continue to successfully run my business from a commercial property that I own in this municipality in the industrial park. Our children take the bus to school from the home we bought on our favourite street in town, and we spend the summer months socializing with our friends at our seasonal dwelling on Crowe Lake. Recently, my mother has relocated to town and become part of the community. 
 

Upon arrival in Marmora, I very quickly joined the Economic Development Advisory Committee, followed by the Marmora Public School Parent Council and Hastings County Resource Team. However, as my passion and connection to the community grew, I felt I needed to do more. With that, I stepped forward in 2022 in a bigger way to contribute to this community’s development by putting my name forward and became elected to council.  Over the past 4 years I have helped guide the municipality through many tough decisions, long and short term plans, budgets and emergency situations. I have absolutely loved the role and ask for the community's support in re-election, providing another four years of service. 

 

I have put a tremendous amount of effort into the Councillor role. I have not missed a single meeting of Council, or any of the committees that I have been appointed to (EDAC, EOTA, Personnel Committee). However, Municipal council is not just about showing up - it's about being prepared. I always come informed, well researched and ready to publicly discuss, ask questions and make responsible decisions for residents. My phone is always on and available - I pickup every call, I respond to emails/DM daily. I am out and about in the community with my family at events and love highlighting the amazing work our community groups and organizations do.

I will carry forward this same work ethic and will continue to focus on change and growth where we want and need it, while conserving, respecting and protecting what we want to retain.