LAURIE WEIR

Residents in South Crosby Ward will head to the polls June 26 to choose a new representative on Rideau Lakes Township council.

Four candidates have filed their nomination papers: Dustin Bulloch, Jonathan Carr, Jordan DeLong, and Rob Hennessy.

Each candidate was sent a set of identical questions to help voters better understand their priorities, positions and motivations for seeking office. Bulloch was the first to respond. Today, we hear from Hennessy. His answers are presented here, unedited for meaning but edited for clarity and style.

1. Why are you running for council?

It would be a great honour to represent Ward 3 and serve as a spokesperson for Rideau Lakes Township. I believe I can bring some positive, cost-cutting ideas to the table, especially on the operational side, based on my experience as a former township employee looking after municipal properties and parks for the past 19 years.

2. What is the top issue facing South Crosby, and how would you address it?

One pressing issue is vandalism in our parks; Elgin village being a recent example. Repairs and now the installation of security cameras are costing taxpayers money that could be better used elsewhere.

I’d like to see a Community Watch program started, so that residents can help pass along information to the proper authorities when something seems off. I’d also like to see better outreach to seniors to help them access available government programs that can ease some of the financial burdens they’re facing.

3. What would be your first priority if elected?

To bring strong ethics, active listening, and accountability to the role. I want to find simple, flexible solutions to township concerns and ensure people feel heard. That includes the public and township staff alike. My goal is to make the best decisions for the entire township, not just based on my personal views.

4. How would you improve communication and trust between council and residents?

As I said earlier, people want to know council is actually listening. We need to be totally transparent about how money is being spent, and we need to build trust by showing that we’re working in good faith for all wards; not just for certain groups or individuals.

Respect for one another, even when opinions differ, is key to making better decisions as a team.

5. What sets you apart from the other candidates?

I was supervisor of municipal properties and parks for nearly 19 years, so I understand how the township works, inside and out. I bring practical, cost-saving ideas to the table.

With 25 years in supervisory roles, I’ve developed strong mediator skills. I moved to Portland in 1998, raised a family here, ran a hobby farm for 18 years, and have always focused on family values and what helps a rural community thrive.

I consider myself a leader, not a follower. I try to examine every angle when issues arise and work toward flexible, ethical, and accountable solutions. If I don’t fully understand an issue, I’ll learn what I need to make informed decisions. I believe in standing up for what I believe in, even if council votes the other way. And I’ll always focus on the positive and try to mitigate the negative.

6a. Council has been criticized for dysfunction and division. How would you help restore trust and stability?

Let’s be honest: one new councillor won’t instantly change the atmosphere, especially during a short term. But if I can bring one thing, it’s the idea that respect for one another’s opinions is a good place to start. We need to stop the mudslinging and make sure everyone has an equal voice.

From what I hear on the street, some councillors speak too much, others not enough. That imbalance needs to be addressed. Council’s time, and taxpayer money, should be focused on the best outcomes for the whole township, not just one ward or interest group.

6b. What’s your opinion on the mayor’s use of strong mayor powers?

We have to remember that this legislation was introduced by the province across Ontario, not just for select municipalities. I believe it was designed for large urban centres like the GTA, to fast-track certain projects, but in small communities like ours, it feels out of place.

In my view, this is a hit to democracy. Residents elect a full council, not just a mayor, and the decisions made should reflect a team approach. That said, I do think there could be rare situations where those powers might help stop a decision that is being made for personal or unproductive reasons.

I hope this doesn’t come across as a double standard. It’s just not a black-and-white issue for me. I see valid arguments both for and against these new powers, but ultimately, I believe the risks to local democracy outweigh the potential benefits.