Letter to the Editor
Editor,
Thank you to the 1765 people who agreed with my wife Kim. Your support, assistance and encouraging words were and will be the driving force as I serve you on council. While it is apparent that taxpayers are concerned about spending and roads, I need clear and collaborative ways to address these issues.
One comment in the Meaford Independent, I have to clear up. After Metro bought A&P it was clear they were not interested in Franchise operations. After negotiating a buy out with 75 Franchises, Kim and I sold our business to Metro in 2008.I was retained as store manager.
I am humbled and honoured to be among the team the voters have chosen. Citizens should know the 20 candidates vying for 7 seats became friends. Our campaign was respectful, cooperative and genuine. The betterment of our municipality and its citizens were at the top of everyone’s priority list. I commend these people for their genuine passion, energy and willingness to sacrifice their free time to serve their fellow Canadians. We would all be well served by a council of these 20 diverse people. I am looking forward to their continued connection and support.
In a few short weeks I will become a politician, somewhat daunting given the preconceived reputation of some. Unlike provincial and federal politics there are no party policies we have to follow. The citizens will set our mandate. While I know there is a lot to learn I will be driven by my soul, passion and work ethics. Encouraged communication from all citizens will be my guide.
We can no longer place blame on the past; our incoming council will take responsibility for the future of this beautiful municipality. I intend to use the talents and powers I have acquired to build a humanitarian community. If we lose hope we stop caring. We all have a responsibility to heal the souls of our community. This is the highest, truest power we possess.
The new council must quickly implement the issues we are in agreement with and find common ground on controversial issues. We must go forward building on the positive of our community thereby telling negative you no longer have a place in our community. Building relations between rural and urban citizens will be among my priorities. Please keep me grounded, keep me focused and most importantly keep in touch.
Steve Bartley, Meaford
