Meet Doug Elmslie, Your Mayor-Elect!
Introduce yourself! We would love to know more about you, your connection to Ward 3, and why you wanted to run for council.
I have owned property in Kawartha Lakes since 1998, originally as a cottager on the lower Burnt River, latterly I moved into Fenelon Falls where I currently reside. I have been a volunteer on many fronts, including Canada Day, Santa Day, The F.F. Curling Club, Sturgeon Point Golf Course, to name a few. I chose to run for Mayor as I had been on Council for 16 years and was concerned that some of Councils initiatives, including budgeting, roads and infrastructure, master plans, development agreements, and service levels might be at risk if someone with a different set of values were to be elected. I was also concerned that we transitioned out of the pandemic, in an orderly and systematic way, while safely protecting the public, our staff and visitors.
How do you plan to include the residents of Ward 3 in the decision-making process at council?
We will include residents in the decision making process by listening to feedback from there Councillors, information gleaned from the many volunteer committees of Council, and other volunteer organizations. Deputations and presentations to Council by members of the Public and through our website such as "Jump in Kawartha". And then, just plain old talking and listening to people.
When you hear the term community engagement, what do you think of?
I believe Community engagement is everything that is included in the previous question, as well as actively asking for feedback on specific issues. It also means being available and present at local events and functions, as well as supporting and helping the many community organizations to the degree that we can.
Before being elected to City Council, what was your experience working with government as a resident and advocate?
I was the Councillor for four terms (16 years) and the first elected Deputy Mayor, for the Fenelon Falls area, former Ward 6 currently Ward 3.
What was the most meaningful part of the campaign process for you?
The most memorable part of the campaign was the incredible number of kind and thoughtful people I met. People were very gracious and helpful, some sharing their stories and concerns, others asking very pointed questions, and others with sadness and worry over the future. It was very eye opening. The other memorable item is just how large and diverse our City is, and reminding myself that whatever is done must include everyone and every area.
What inspires you?
I am inspired but the huge number of Volunteers we have, the breadth of their activities and the amount of time and effort, and the passion they bring to those organizations. Government (the City) cannot possibly take on everything, we need these groups and these folks to continue to do what they do, and to grow and prosper.
