Steve Bartley, Council Candidate
Candidate Name: Steve Bartley (I)
Position Sought: Councillor
Email: kimjanbar@gmail.com
Phone: 519-794-9980
Bio:
I was born and raised in Owen Sound and worked at Dominion Stores. Kim and I bought our first franchise grocery store in 1983. In 1997 we moved our four wonderful children to a farm in Sydenham Township. My family has spent many volunteer hours in our community. I have been a member of the Sydenham Sportsmen Association since 1967. My family is very active in supporting the Salmon Spectacular.
As we were raising our children we were involved in the Sydenham School community, Sydenham School Fall Fair Lamb Club, Silver Spurs Saddle Club and Owen Sound and Chatsworth minor sports. My granddaughter and anticipating the arrival of another grandchild keeps me busy and smiling. My resent move to semi-retirement has afforded me more time for golfing and enjoying the outdoors. It has also allowed me more time to learn about the operations of the municipality as a councillor .More important, the quality and quantity of time spent with family and friends is what I value the most.
Why I am running for Meaford council:
Kim and I frequently found ourselves involved in water cooler talk post amalgamation often questioning the facts verses the rumours. This prompted us to follow the words and actions of council, individuals and special interest groups. Gaining more knowledge enabled me to participate in subsequent conversations with the facts. I was then able to help individuals understand municipal activities. I continued spending as much time as possible participating in meetings and events with regards to the municipality. Promoting harmony and respect within the municipality and providing facts when it comes to municipal matters prompted me to run for a council seat in 2014. With extensive customer service and business accounting experience, I felt confident I would be an asset to my municipality. I have concentrated on the numbers on our financial statements as well as the B.M.A. reports. This has helped me make informed decisions and answering questions from residents. There is still a lot for me to learn in order to continue assisting our municipality and our residents.
My Top Priorities if Elected to the New Council:
I will continue to keep infrastructure on every budget. I will not defer this important issue to future generations. I plan on remaining pragmatic when dealing with the issues of our municipality. I will concentrate on improving efficiencies and collaborating with all levels in governments to improve our municipality. Urban and rural residents often have different priorities. I will continue building harmony and respect for individuals concerns and their heritage. Success in one area is a success for the entire municipality. I will continue studying the reports to council in order to effectively communicate with others. There is still much for me to learn.
My Involvement in the Community Over the Past Four Years:
As a businessman I am frequently asked to assist enthusiastic groups to improve our community. I am often able to reduce their expenses sometimes even helping at the event. I have participated on the Owen Sound North Grey Library board, the Inter-township Fire Department board and the Riverside Community board. I lend a hand at the brunches held at Riverside. I am an executive member of the Royal Canadian Legion. I have spent extensive hours with my family supporting the Owen Sound Salmon Spectacular which now includes the Meaford harbour. I have enjoyed conversing and troubleshooting with my fellow citizens. I have enjoyed participating in numerous community events.
The Role of Councillor as I See it:
The roll of council is to promote a safe, clean, healthy and affordable environment to reside in. This can be achieved with respectful communication between residents, municipal stall and elected members of council. Promoting core values of the municipality will attract both business and residents.
The Skills I Will Bring to Council:
As a business owner, understanding financial reports is a key to success. This experience has helped me communicate the information when answering rate payer’s questions. Leading staff and customer service experience is also an asset. I am always pragmatic when dealing with issues and encourage others to be also.
