Wanting to get to know Lakeshore’s municipal election candidates better? CTV asked them questions to give you some more insight into their platforms. Mayor Tracey Bailey - Incumbent Why are you running for the Mayor of Lakeshore? I’m running for re-election because there is important work underway that I want to see through. Over the past four years, we have done the difficult work of planning, securing funding, and addressing the infrastructure challenges that were limiting our community. We have built a strong foundation. Now, with major infrastructure projects moving into construction, I want to make sure we deliver those projects responsibly, on time, and on budget, while continuing to keep Lakeshore affordable. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the municipality and how would you address it? Infrastructure and responsible growth. Lakeshore is growing, but growth has to be supported by the water, wastewater, roads, and other infrastructure our residents and businesses depend on. My approach has been to plan for the long term, aggressively pursue senior government funding and ensure growth helps pay for growth rather than placing the burden solely on existing taxpayers. The next step is delivering the infrastructure projects already planned and funded. Under my leadership we brought in nearly $100 million, now this is where shovels hit the ground. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? 1. Deliver our infrastructure program — move major water, wastewater, stormwater and road projects from planning into construction and completion. 2. Protect affordability — continue disciplined budgeting, pursue every available grant and outside funding opportunity, and keep pressure off the municipal tax base wherever possible. 3. Build complete communities — support responsible housing and economic growth while investing in roads, recreation, parks, active transportation and the services residents need as Lakeshore grows. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I bring a combination of municipal experience and executive leadership. I have served Lakeshore at the council table for 12 years — as councillor, deputy mayor, and mayor — while also bringing more than two decades of senior leadership experience in the community sector. I understand how municipal government works, how to build partnerships with other levels of government and how to move large, complex projects forward. I am ready to continue the work from day one. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? I will have solved Lakeshore’s major infrastructure deficit. I will see Lakeshore’s investments through construction and continue pursuing every available funding opportunity so that we can build the infrastructure our growing community needs without putting the entire cost on existing taxpayers. Four years from now, residents should be able to see tangible results — not just plans on paper. We will have a sanitary line from Belle River to Wallace Woods, a new line serving Belle River and area, and a new mechanical treatment plant relieving us of the aged-out lagoon system that serves the east end of the community. This was a $251 million strategy. I became the infrastructure mayor because Lakeshore needed someone willing to tackle the difficult work beneath the ground. We have done the planning and secured significant investment. My promise is to turn that work into results — major infrastructure built, projects delivered responsibly, and Lakeshore positioned for responsible growth for generations to come. Argo Pace Why are you running for Mayor of Lakeshore? I’m running for mayor because I believe Lakeshore has tremendous potential, but we need to make sure we’re growing in a balanced and responsible way. I’ve spent about 40 years in manufacturing, engineering, and continuous improvement, working from the shop floor into senior leadership positions. My experience has always been about solving problems, bringing people together and finding better ways of doing things. I want to bring that same approach to Lakeshore — focusing on affordability, infrastructure, responsible growth, attracting more commercial and industrial investment, and creating more local jobs. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the municipality and how would you address it? One of our biggest challenges is managing growth while keeping Lakeshore affordable and making sure our infrastructure can support that growth. My approach would be to look at growth from all sides — roads, water, wastewater, drainage, taxes, and employment. I also want Lakeshore to put greater emphasis on attracting commercial and industrial investment, so our tax base and local employment opportunities grow alongside residential development. For me, it comes down to building a strong foundation first and making sure the services residents already depend on remain sustainable as Lakeshore continues to grow. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? My three priorities would be affordability and responsible spending, infrastructure, and economic development. First, I would review spending and look for efficiencies, so we are getting good value from every tax dollar. Second, I would focus on our existing infrastructure needs — including roads, drainage, water and wastewater — while planning responsibly for future growth. Third, I would place a stronger emphasis on attracting commercial and industrial investment and working with existing businesses to encourage expansion and create more jobs locally. I believe residential growth and employment growth need to work together. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? My background is different. I’m not coming from a career in municipal politics. I’ve spent roughly 40 years working in manufacturing, engineering, and continuous improvement, including leadership positions where I was responsible for solving problems, controlling costs, and improving operations. I’ve also worked internationally and have seen different approaches to business and economic development. The perspective I would bring to the mayor’s office is based largely on private-sector management, problem solving, and continuous improvement. My particular emphasis is on balancing residential growth with stronger commercial and industrial development and more local employment opportunities. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? My commitment is that I will continuously push for Lakeshore to become more proactive in attracting commercial and industrial investment and creating local employment opportunities. That means working with existing businesses, pursuing new investment and examining what Lakeshore can do to make responsible development easier. At the end of four years, residents should be able to look at what was done — what businesses were approached, what investment was attracted, what employment opportunities were created, and how the municipality worked to strengthen its overall tax base. Sam Sinjari Why are you running for Mayor of Lakeshore? I’m running because Lakeshore needs stability, financial accountability, and responsible leadership. Repeated changes in senior administration, delayed financial reporting, and rising infrastructure costs concern me. Residents deserve safe neighbourhoods, reliable services, timely answers, and proper oversight of their tax dollars. I want to restore stability, control spending, and protect the identity and character of all 13 communities, including our farmland, waterfront, hunting and fishing traditions, quiet neighbourhoods, and peaceful way of life. Lakeshore must remain a place where families can build their futures without losing what makes our community worth living in. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the municipality, and how would you address it? Financial accountability. Audited financial statements for three consecutive years were approved approximately 19 to 20 months after year-end. Lakeshore’s 2025 Asset Management Plan identifies a modeled $22.1 million annual funding shortfall for tax-supported infrastructure. Council has directed staff to develop financing strategies for another $74.5 million in potential borrowing. Residents deserve to know how these financial obligations will affect future taxes, fees, and services. I would work with council to review spending, examine contracts, strengthen financial controls and establish firm reporting deadlines. Major projects must have clear costs, timelines, and funding plans. Before asking taxpayers for more money, we must account for how existing funds are being spent. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I bring nearly 20 years of experience in finance, business operations, governance, and organizational improvement. I founded Good Tell Advisory Inc., where my work includes reviewing operations, controlling costs, and improving how organizations function. My philanthropy has supported food security, children’s programs, and charitable organizations throughout Windsor-Essex. I received the Queen Elizabeth II Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship in recognition of my community service. I am honoured to have the endorsement and support of former Lakeshore Mayor Tom Bain, who served our community for 44 years. Serving as mayor will be my full-time commitment. My experience is in managing operations, examining costs, and addressing problems. Those are the standards I intend to bring to municipal leadership. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? Within my first 100 days, I will present council with a written plan to address financial reporting delays, municipal spending, borrowing, public safety, infrastructure priorities, and service performance. I will publish quarterly reports on my commitments, including costs, delays, completed projects, and outstanding work. If a commitment is not met, I will explain why. Four years from now, residents can compare my record with what I promised. Deputy Mayor Renay Grant Why are you running for Deputy Mayor of Lakeshore? I’m running for Deputy Mayor because Lakeshore is my home. My family has been part of this municipality for generations, and I’ve spent decades raising my family, volunteering, working, and supporting our communities. I care deeply about Lakeshore and the people who call it home. I believe we need strong leadership that listens, makes responsible financial decisions and remembers who council works for — the taxpayers. I also believe we need better communication between council and our residents. That’s why I’m committed to visiting every community in Lakeshore every three months to hold public meetings. I want to hear what’s going well, what needs improvement, and make sure residents are kept informed about decisions that affect their communities. I’m running because I want to bring my life experience, business knowledge, and community involvement to the council table, ask questions, and work toward meaningful improvements for all of Lakeshore. Ultimately, I want to help build a municipality where residents feel heard, public resources are managed responsibly, and every community receives equal attention. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the municipality and how would you address it? I believe one of the biggest issues facing Lakeshore is accountability and communication between council and the people we represent. Residents should know what’s happening in their communities, why decisions are being made and how their tax dollars are being spent. I believe financial accountability means carefully reviewing spending, making responsible decisions, and being open with taxpayers about how and why their money is being used. I want to improve communication by encouraging clear explanations of council decisions, making municipal information more accessible, and ensuring residents have the opportunity to ask questions and have their concerns heard. That’s why I’m committed to holding public meetings every three months in each of Lakeshore’s communities. I want to hear what’s going well, what needs improvement and what concerns residents have. Just as importantly, I want to keep people informed about municipal projects and decisions and follow up on issues that have been raised. Accountability requires more than listening. It means being honest about what can be accomplished, explaining decisions, and reporting back on progress. I believe that when you’re elected to represent the people, you have a responsibility to stay connected to them. That shouldn’t end once the election is over. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? 1. Infrastructure and emergency services Our roads, drainage, and emergency services are essential to the safety and quality of life of our residents. I’m particularly concerned about emergency response times in our rural communities. I would push for a clear assessment of where services may be falling short and work with council and administration toward practical improvements based on the needs of each community. 2. Responsible financial management Residents need confidence that their tax dollars are being spent wisely. I want to carefully review budgets, understand the long-term costs of projects, and ensure we’re balancing today’s needs with future financial responsibilities. I also believe taxpayers deserve clear explanations of how their money is being spent. 3. Better communication and fair representation I want residents in every community across Lakeshore to have meaningful opportunities to be heard. I would hold quarterly public meetings in each community to provide updates, answer questions and follow up on concerns. I also want to advocate for fair access to municipal services and investments across Lakeshore, so smaller communities aren’t overlooked when decisions are being made. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? What I would bring to council is a combination of business experience, community involvement and an independent perspective. I’ve spent decades in business and volunteering in our communities. I’ve worked with budgets, contracts, financing and decisions that have real financial consequences. I’ve also spent years working alongside residents, listening to their concerns, and helping make things happen in our communities. I believe there’s a lot of value in bringing real-life experience to municipal government. I’ve always said that council procedures can be learned, but leadership and judgment come from experience beyond the council table. I’m a person who asks questions. If something doesn’t make sense to me, I want to understand why. I’m not afraid to speak up or question a decision, but I also believe in respecting different opinions and working together to find solutions. I’m not interested in simply having a seat at the table. I want to be an active voice for our residents, stay involved in our communities and make sure the people of Lakeshore know they have someone who is listening. I will never forget who I work for — the taxpayers. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? My promise is to remain accessible, accountable and present in the communities I represent. If elected, I am committing to holding public meetings every three months in each of Lakeshore’s communities. I want residents to have the opportunity to speak openly about what’s going well, what needs improvement, and the concerns they have. These meetings won’t just be about listening. I want to keep residents informed about municipal decisions, upcoming projects, and how their tax dollars are being spent. Just as importantly, I want to follow up on concerns raised at previous meetings, so residents know where things stand. I believe being elected comes with a responsibility to stay connected to the people you represent, not just during an election, but throughout your entire term. In four years, residents should be able to look back and see that I kept that commitment. I showed up, I listened, I communicated, and I followed through. I can’t promise that every request will result in the outcome someone wants, but I can promise to listen, communicate honestly, and make a genuine effort to follow through. Dave Monk CTV News is awaiting a response. Kirk Walstedt - Incumbent Why are you running for Deputy Mayor of Lakeshore? I am seeking re-election as Deputy Mayor so I may continue to work for focused and planned growth that will not affect the character of existing communities. The current council has worked hard to receive close to $100 million in infrastructure funding from the two upper levels of government. I want to ensure the projects we have ear marked for the funding are completed within the required timelines. I also want to continue to keep property taxes as low as possible. These are tough economic times, and we need to realize that many families are struggling financially. During this term of council, the mayor and I negotiated with Hydro One and secured an $8 million Community Support Agreement for the Comber and Woodslee communities in response to Hydro One’s new transmission lines that will be constructed near these two communities. This is an ongoing project that I want to ensure meets the needs and wishes of the residents in Comber and Woodslee. What do you believe is the most important issue facing your ward and how would you address it? Infrastructure improvements require council’s continued and immediate attention. This includes water, wastewater, and road improvements. I’d continue to work closely with our mayor and ward councillors to ensure the newly elected council stays the course as the current council has done over the past four years. There is more important work to be done and experience at the council table is essential. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? 1. Keeping taxes as low as possible while still meeting the needs of the residents. 2. As previously stated, infrastructure improvements. 3. Focused and planned growth. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I differ from my fellow candidates by the many years of experience and commitment I bring to the position of deputy mayor. My experience as a municipal lawyer for over 25 years and my experience as a member of both the former Maidstone Township Council, I believe enables me to bring a wealth of knowledge with respect to the many issues we face at the council table. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? The promise I make is to listen to the taxpayers and treat every dollar spent as though it was coming directly from my own pocket. I believe I have been an effective voice on Lakeshore council and Essex County council the past four years and will continue to be a strong voice in the next term. Ward 1 Ryan Lahoud Why are you running for councillor of Ward 1 in Lakeshore? From an early age my parents, especially my father, taught me the importance of volunteering and giving back to your community. They reinforced the notion of putting the needs and interests of others before our own. So, it quickly became the norm in our household, and with me specifically to volunteer in the community starting at a very young age. Whether it was coaching various sports, getting involved in charity events, continuously aiding at our place of worship, or later on getting involved in multiple elections, it is hard for me to remember a time when I wasn’t involved in serving my community. Growing up in a newer up-and-coming area of then Maidstone Township was a wonderful experience. The growing neighbourhoods were quiet, peaceful, and safe. Neighbours watched out for one another, and residents upheld the integrity of the area. I went to school here, played my sports here, did most of my volunteering and community work here, and now am blessed to be able to raise my family in this same area. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to create many long-lasting relationships with the residents in the community and have had the privilege of welcoming many new families to the area. I continue to care deeply for my community and want what’s best for the residents of Ward 1 Lakeshore. As someone who takes hard work and dedication seriously, I believe I can serve the residents of Lakeshore’s Ward 1 best. As someone who has served others for the majority of my life, this is yet another way I can exercise this calling. Simply put, I thoroughly enjoy the political process, and I firmly believe in serving and helping others to the best of my ability. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the ward, and how would you address it? Lakeshore’s Ward 1 is a large area with diverse issues in different parts. In the north end of the ward, most residents continue to be concerned with the issue of persistent flooding. Many residents have trouble sleeping through a common rainstorm wondering if their large investment will be ruined once again. In the middle of the ward, many residents are concerned about green spaces and buffer zones between industrial and residential areas being rezoned to industrial land with the real potential of businesses and factories being built right in their backyards. This would not only limit the privacy these residents longed for when they moved out here, but would increase traffic, pollution, and likely devalue their homes significantly. In the southern part of the ward, the main issue would be the lack of voice the residents believe they have. Many new and long-time residents of this area feel their voices are not heard, and their concerns simply do not matter. Each of these problems will require difficult conversations, serious discussion and full transparency of how we got to this point and how we will solve them. We need to figure out why the flooding is taking place, who is responsible for it, and what we can do to reverse it in a way that is sustainable for both the municipality and the hard-working residents. We need to find out why certain areas are being targeted for land rezoning and if there are better alternatives. Finally, we need to make sure all voices are heard throughout the ward. This takes hard work, dedication, and a heart for serving. Councillors are not here to serve themselves or other politicians. Our job is to prioritize the needs of our local community by listening to the residents’ concerns and deciding the best overall course of action to address them. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? During my first term, my top three priorities will include preserving and maintaining our green and leisure spaces, modernizing our infrastructure, and building a long-lasting trust with my constituents. First, Ward 1’s parks, trails, and green spaces are central to our quality of life and sense of community. I am committed to protecting and maintaining pedestrian paths, parks, and natural areas so they remain safe, accessible, and enjoyable for residents of all ages. This includes the Leffler Peace Park, Russel Woods Parkette, St. Clair Shores Park, Wallace Line Lakefront Parkette, the Old Tecumseh Road walking path, and urban green spaces the serve as a buffer between industrial and residential lands. By investing in thoughtful upkeep and preservation, we can ensure these spaces continue to bring people together and remain a source of pride for generations to come. Second, Lakeshore is growing, and our infrastructure must grow with it. I will advocate for wise, forward-looking investments in roads, utilities, and public facilities that are safe, reliable, and built to serve both today’s residents and future generations. This includes projects to improve traffic flow and safety, along with targeted drainage upgrades to reduce flooding and protect homes and local businesses. This also includes having the challenging conversations of where to plan future industrial growth that will benefit the municipality without negatively affecting the well-being of current residences. Thoughtful planning now will help ensure our community remains functional, connected, and resilient as we continue to grow. Finally, I believe that effective leadership requires a long-lasting trust with constituents. This starts with residents actually knowing who their councillor is. I will be more visible, more approachable, and more engaged in the community; taking time to hear the residents’ concerns, ideas, and priorities. By working hard and staying connected, I will ensure that every resident of Ward 1 has a voice that is heard and respected at the council table. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? There are some significant differences between myself and other Ward 1 council candidates. For starters, I grew up in the area. I have had the opportunity to witness the changes in my community over time. This has given me a better understanding of the needs and wants of the area. I have a pulse on the current community climate that you can only get after decades of relationship building. This is vital knowledge that simply cannot be obtained outside of the experience itself. Second, many residents of this area have watched me grow up. They know me not just as a council candidate, or as another resident, but for the true person I am. Many residents have observed my life as it has evolved. They saw me as the local paper boy delivering to houses, a trusted childcare provider to countless families in the area, and the hard-working teenager and young adult behind the deli counter for more than 15 years at the local grocery store. Residents have witnessed my passion, integrity, and care for my community. There are no secrets. People know exactly who I am as a person. This is how true trust is built. Lastly, I have the drive and ability to listen better and work harder than other candidates. I was raised in a home where nothing was handed to you. Hard work, integrity, and serving others before yourself were at the core of my upbringing. When you are raised this way, it becomes second nature to want to do everything as well as possible. It has made me who I am today. I give every task 100 per cent of my effort. If not, I will not do it. Just ask anybody that knows me. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? I would like to promise the residents of Ward 1 that I will be the most visible, attentive, and approachable councillor they could hope for. I want residents to feel comfortable reaching out to me and having a conversation knowing that I am here to advocate for them. I would like to promise that I will listen better, work harder, and prioritize the needs of my community with kindness, respect, and the highest integrity. Ryan McNamara - Incumbent Why are you running for councillor of Ward 1 in Lakeshore? I am seeking re-election because I remain committed to giving back to our community and continuing the important work we have started over the past four years. Throughout this term, my focus has been on improving our municipal infrastructure while maintaining a responsible approach to taxation. For too many years, growth was not adequately aligned with infrastructure planning, nor was sufficient investment made in maintaining and upgrading critical assets. As a result, our municipality now faces an estimated $650 million infrastructure gap over the next 20 years, encompassing necessary investments in roads, water systems, wastewater facilities, and stormwater infrastructure. Over the past four years, we have invested more than $100 million into these essential infrastructure projects while delivering the lowest cumulative tax increases among municipalities in Essex County. These achievements demonstrate that it is possible to make meaningful investments in our community while remaining fiscally responsible. While we have established a strong foundation, there is still significant work ahead. I want to continue advancing infrastructure improvements while aggressively pursuing grant funding opportunities from both the provincial and federal governments to help reduce the burden on local taxpayers. I am also committed to continuing the work we began through the development of our five-year Parks Master Plan. For many years, municipal parks did not receive the level of investment necessary to properly maintain and enhance these valued community assets. This plan provides a clear roadmap for identifying priorities and ensuring our parks receive the attention and investment they deserve. Finally, we must remain focused on managing growth responsibly and understanding its impact on existing infrastructure. The investments made during this term were guided by a forward-looking approach that prepares our municipality for future growth. Rather than waiting until our infrastructure reaches its limits, we are proactively expanding capacity to ensure our community is ready for the opportunities and challenges that growth brings. I am proud of what we have accomplished together, and I am seeking re-election to continue building a strong, sustainable, and well-prepared future for our community. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the ward and how would you address it? The most important issue facing Ward 1 is the continued effort to address flooding and strengthen flood mitigation measures throughout the community. At the beginning of this term, I reviewed the Flood Mitigation and Protection Framework and met with our Operations and Engineering teams to better understand the flooding challenges within the ward. Through those discussions and further analysis, it became clear that the single largest contributor to flooding was a sanitary sewer system that had reached its capacity. Over the past four years, I have made this issue a top priority, and I am proud that we have delivered a significant solution. The construction of the new trunk sewer connecting the Denis St. Pierre Water Pollution Control Plant along County Road 22 will substantially reduce pressure on the existing system. This critical investment enables necessary pump station upgrades and addresses the primary source of flooding within Ward 1. While this represents a major milestone, our work is not yet complete. We must remain committed to seeing this project through to completion while shifting our attention to the next phase of flood mitigation: Improvements to the stormwater management system. The stormwater network within Ward 1 is a complex and interconnected system that requires careful planning and detailed analysis. Any upgrades must be evaluated within the context of the broader system to ensure improvements in one area do not create unintended challenges elsewhere. Taking a thoughtful and strategic approach will be essential to delivering long-term, sustainable solutions. Continuing this work and advancing additional flood mitigation measures will be a key priority in the next term. My goal is to build on the progress we have made and deliver further solutions that protect homes, businesses, and infrastructure while improving the quality of life for residents throughout Ward 1. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? As I seek a second term, I remain committed to three key priorities: Fiscal responsibility, infrastructure investment, and managing growth in a way that respects and protects our established neighborhoods. Fiscal responsibility is about more than simply keeping taxes low at all costs. There is a real cost to doing nothing. Construction and capital costs continue to rise each year, and delaying necessary projects ultimately increases the financial burden on taxpayers. Fiscal responsibility means establishing a long-term capital plan supported by a sustainable funding strategy. It means aggressively pursuing every available grant opportunity while leveraging the relationships and connections I have built at higher levels of government over the past four years to help advance our applications. It also requires careful scrutiny of annual budget expenditures to fully understand their necessity, impact, and value. Equally important is the continued expansion of our asset management program, ensuring funds are set aside for future asset replacement so that costs are planned for over time rather than falling entirely on a single year’s budget. Infrastructure investment is essential to our future. As the largest municipality in the region, we face significant responsibilities and costs related to maintaining and upgrading our infrastructure. We must remain focused on proactive maintenance and long term planning to maximize the life of our assets, minimize future costs, and ensure we are well-positioned to take advantage of grant funding opportunities when they become available. Growth must be supported by infrastructure improvements and thoughtful planning from the outset. Meaningful community engagement is critical to ensuring residents have opportunities to provide feedback through a transparent and open process. Wallace Woods will be our primary growth area over the next 20 years, and it is essential that we have a comprehensive and well-considered plan to guide its development in a way that benefits both current and future residents. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? What sets me apart is not only my commitment to serving our community, but also my proven record of delivering on the promises I made when I first sought election four years ago. During my term on council, I have demonstrated that leadership is about more than making commitments. It is about following through, achieving results, and being accountable to the residents who placed their trust in me. Over the past four years, I have gained valuable experience serving on council and have worked diligently to advocate for the needs and priorities of Ward 1 and the broader Lakeshore community. I have built strong, productive relationships with my fellow council members, municipal staff, and representatives at the provincial and federal levels of government. These partnerships have been essential in advancing initiatives, securing support, and ensuring that the interests of our residents are represented at every level. My experience has allowed me to identify key issues affecting our community, develop practical solutions, and work persistently to see projects and initiatives through to completion. Whether addressing infrastructure needs, improving municipal services, supporting responsible growth, or enhancing quality of life for residents, I have consistently focused on achieving meaningful and measurable results. I believe effective leadership requires collaboration, transparency, and a willingness to listen. Throughout my term, I have made it a priority to engage with residents, understand their concerns, and ensure their voices are reflected in the decisions being made at council. I am proud of the relationships I have built and the trust I have earned through my dedication and accessibility. Above all, I am driven by a strong sense of civic duty and a genuine passion for giving back to the community that I am proud to call home. Public service is not simply a position; it is a responsibility. Every decision I make is guided by the goal of making Lakeshore an even better place to live, work, raise a family, and invest in our future. I remain committed to working tirelessly on behalf of residents and continuing to build a stronger, more prosperous community for generations to come. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? I am committed to continuing to serve the residents of Ward 1 with openness, honesty, and accessibility. I believe one of the most important responsibilities of an elected official is to be a strong and effective voice for the people they represent, while also providing clear, truthful, and transparent information. Throughout my time on council, I have made it a priority to be available and responsive to residents, listening to their concerns, answering their questions, and advocating on their behalf. Being an effective representative means more than simply telling people what they want to hear. It means being honest, even when the answer may be difficult or unpopular. I will always provide straightforward and factual responses to residents, grounded in the realities of municipal governance and decision making. When challenges arise or difficult decisions must be made, I believe residents deserve a full explanation of the reasons behind those decisions. That is why I am committed to supporting my responses with relevant data, facts, and information so residents can better understand not only what decisions are being made, but why they are being made. Trust is earned through transparency, consistency, and honesty. My commitment is to continue fostering that trust by communicating openly, treating every resident with respect, and ensuring that their voices are heard at the Council table. I will remain accessible, accountable, and dedicated to representing the interests of Ward 1 with integrity and professionalism. Ward 2 Owen Crampsie Why are you running for councillor of Ward 2 in Lakeshore? Like many residents, I have talked about changes I would like to see happen in my area, and I feel it’s time to get involved instead of just taking about things. I have decades of experience in Business Management, Governance, Community Involvement, Non-Profit and Leadership/Board roles. This experience will allow me to help Lakeshore council to improve communication with residents, make decisions that will support the wants and needs of residents, in a fiscally sound and collaborative way What do you believe is the most important issue facing the ward and how would you address it? I have heard from many Lakeshore residents, and I agree as a Lakeshore resident myself, that the property taxes are getting out of control, while there is little to explain why the tax increases have happened and continue to happen each year. Municipal governments have to spend money to support services and development, but I feel more transparency and communication would go a long way to ensuring that residents understand and hopefully support the need for the property taxes we are paying. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? First, I would like to see improved communication from Town Hall, the mayor and council, residents have the right to be kept aware of the decisions their elected officials are making, and why. Second, we have the need in our area for safer roads, which would be helped with more bike lanes, less gravel shoulders on our roads, and more and stronger initiatives to slow down speeders on our roads. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I feel the decades of successful business ownership and management, non-profit work, and community involvement experience I bring to the role of councillor sets me apart form other candidates. I am also at an age where my maturity and life experience would be invaluable at council meetings. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? I will ensure that communication improves from Town Hall to the residents of Lakeshore, so they feel more aware, more involved, and more respected by our elected officials. This is not an expensive improvement, but people who pay taxes and spend their days and nights in Lakeshore should feel a better connection with Town Hall, the mayor, and council members. Michael Hoffman - Incumbent CTV News is awaiting a response. Ken Poisson CTV News is awaiting a response. Joseph Qi Why are you running for councillor of Ward 2 in Lakeshore? I’ve lived in Lakeshore and Windsor for over 35 years and raised my family here. I am running because the decisions being made right now will shape this community for decades, and I want to make sure residents have a real voice in them. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the ward and how would you address it? I’ve heard a lot about the road safety and road conditions in Ward 2. When speaking with residents, many have voiced the need to address the issues of speeding and not stopping at stop signs and improving infrastructure for safety and rapid transit. The increased cost of water and utilities is another major concern as well. I will use data and facts along with residents’ inputs and the support from peers in the council, to push for finding the best feasible and cost-effective solutions to the problems facing our community, and improve road safety and conditions. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? 1. Your (voters) issues are my issues. Whatever you/voters raise, whether it’s a pothole, a concern, or a question, I’ll address it in a timely manner. No getting lost in the shuffle. 2. Real infrastructure improvements including road conditions and road safety. Holding projects and local work accountable, so Ward 2 sees real results. 3. Lower property tax increases. Pushing for cost efficiency. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? With decades of engineering and executive leadership-proven experience solving complex operational problems, I will serve Lakeshore with these discipline and skills, planning ahead to improve efficiency. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? I promise that in four years you will be able to say that I have always been present and active in working to address your issues and concerns. Ward 3 Mike Gruszka CTV News is awaiting a response. Rafat Jafri CTV News is awaiting a response. Moe Seddik CTV News is awaiting a response. Kelly Wasylyk Why are you running for councillor of Ward 3 in Lakeshore? Lakeshore has been home to me for over 20 years. I attended Belle River District High School, and today my wife and I are raising our two daughters here and we decided to build our house here as we see the potential in Lakeshore and how great it can be to raise a family here. I’ve volunteered coaching youth sports and serving on local nonprofit boards because I believe a strong community is built by people who care enough to get involved. I see opportunities to make everyday life better for families. Our daughters love rollerblading, but there are neighbourhood streets where the pavement is so rough that they’ve tripped and scraped themselves trying to enjoy something as simple as being outside. I’ve also experienced the devastating impact of flooding. When our previous home flooded, we had a newborn baby, and I remember the stress of losing belongings, repairing the damage, and worrying about it happening again. These experiences remind me that municipal decisions aren’t just about infrastructure, budgets, or policies. They’re about our children’s safety, protecting our homes, and helping people enjoy their neighbourhoods. I believe Lakeshore has the potential to become one of the most desirable communities in our region, with beautiful parks, safe streets, strong local businesses, accessible recreation, and neighbourhoods where families want to put down roots and a place people are proud to call home. However, achieving that requires leadership that plans proactively rather than reacting after problems occur. I’m running because I care deeply about our community and believe I can contribute the professional experience, compassion and practical thinking needed to help Lakeshore realize its potential. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the ward and how would you address it? I believe the most important challenge is ensuring Lakeshore makes proactive, coordinated decisions about growth, infrastructure and municipal services, rather than addressing problems individually after they’ve become more expensive. Ward 3 also faces significant transportation challenges with the upcoming County Road 22 expansion. Oakwood could become even busier as construction progresses, which is why traffic patterns, calming measures, and pedestrian and cycling safety need to be evaluated before problems worsen. I take my kids to school daily down Oakwood and people are regularly speeding excessively down the road and there are many kids that have to cross this busy road, because the sidewalks don’t continue on the same side of the road, so they can get to school safely and with the development of the new school at Rourke and Girard will only increase the traffic of students traveling to school and having to cross Oakwood. Our roads are a good example. When children can’t safely rollerblade or cycle on neighbourhood streets because of deteriorating pavement, that’s more than a maintenance issue. It affects how families use their neighbourhoods. And if we continually defer preventative maintenance, relatively manageable repairs can become much more expensive reconstruction projects. As a CPA, I’ve seen the importance of investing wisely today to avoid greater costs tomorrow. I would advocate for a financially sustainable strategic plan that connects infrastructure, development, transportation, parks, and economic development rather than treating them as separate priorities. The same proactive approach should apply to flooding and development. New subdivisions should not increase stormwater risks for existing residents, and our parks, roads and municipal services must keep pace with growth. That means making decisions based on reliable information, understanding long-term costs, holding developers accountable for their obligations and regularly reporting progress to residents. We should be protecting what we’ve already built while planning responsibly for what comes next. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? 1. Protect our homes, property values and neighbourhoods. I want to prioritize flood prevention, responsible stormwater management, preventative road maintenance and safer streets. Protecting our neighbourhoods also means maintaining attractive public spaces, encouraging responsible property maintenance and pet ownership, and addressing excessive noise, odours, and other concerns that affect residents’ quality of life and how they can enjoy their properties. Education, accessible communication, and fair enforcement all have a role to play to ensure residents are being respectful of their neighbours and building a community together and fostering relationships among neighbours. 2. Strengthen municipal leadership, accountability, and proactive planning. One of the next council’s most important responsibilities will be recruiting and appointing a CAO who can build a positive organizational culture, establish accountability, and coordinate departments around a shared strategic vision. I would advocate for clear performance expectations, stronger financial oversight, transparent reporting, and better coordination of infrastructure, development, and municipal services. We also need to identify efficiencies and attract responsible business investment that expands our commercial and industrial tax base. 3. Build a safer, more vibrant and connected community. I want children to have safe streets for walking, cycling, and rollerblading, neighbourhood parks within walking distance, and greater access to recreational programs. In Ward 3, this includes planning ahead for the County Road 22 expansion, improving traffic calming on Oakwood and supporting better cycling and pedestrian connections so it doesn’t require having to drive everywhere and parents can trust there are paths that their children can use to access the Atlas Tube Recreation Facility for the library and other recreational facilities, as well as accessing other parks and local businesses with ease. I also want to protect existing parkland, expand mature tree planting, help address recreational and childcare waitlists, and support local businesses, restaurants, sports facilities, and community traditions that bring people together. My goal is to make Lakeshore a community where residents continue to feel safe, connected, and proud of the neighbourhoods they’ve invested in. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I respect anyone willing to serve our community as its a major commitment. What I believe distinguishes me and what I can bring that is unique is the combination of my professional financial and governance experience, business leadership, and genuine commitment to the people of Lakeshore. I’m a Chartered Professional Accountant and previously worked with Deloitte auditing organizations, including municipalities, large publicly traded companies, and private businesses. That experience gave me a strong understanding of financial accountability, internal controls, risk management, and the importance of independent oversight. I’ve also held senior leadership roles managing significant budgets, evaluating multi-million-dollar investments, reviewing complex agreements, improving organizational processes and making difficult decisions about how limited resources should be allocated and evaluating trade-offs when faced with various constraints. Through serving on nonprofit boards, I’ve gained practical experience with governance, bylaws, codes of conduct, and the responsibility board members have to the organizations and communities they serve. This experience is particularly relevant as Lakeshore recruits its next CAO, establishes a new strategic plan, and addresses significant infrastructure and financial challenges. I’m also very aware that qualifications alone don’t make someone a good councillor. I’m also a parent, a husband, a neighbour, and a volunteer youth sports coach. I understand the importance of listening to residents’ concerns, treating people fairly, and creating opportunities for everyone to participate. I believe good leadership requires empathy, integrity, curiosity, and accountability. I’m comfortable asking difficult questions, challenging assumptions respectfully, and pride myself on understanding the underlying causes of problems before recommending solutions. I bring the financial and governance experience to understand complex decisions, the practical experience to help improve how organizations operate, and the compassion to remember how those decisions affect residents and their families and believe this would be beneficial to the major initiatives the municipality is undertaking over the next few years. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? My promise is to be transparent, accessible, and accountable throughout my four-year term. If elected, I will publish an annual Ward 3 accountability report, beginning within my first year in office, showing the issues I’ve advocated for, the decisions I’ve supported, and the progress achieved. I want residents to understand what’s happening with our roads, infrastructure investments, parks, municipal finances, and community services. Equally important, I will explain what hasn’t been accomplished, why progress may be taking longer than expected and what council is doing to address those challenges. Having worked in financial auditing and organizational governance, I understand the importance of accurate reporting, measurable objectives, and holding leadership accountable for results. I also believe municipal communication should be understandable and accessible. Residents shouldn’t need a financial background or spend hours reviewing council reports to understand decisions that affect their homes and taxes. I’ll communicate in plain language and advocate for important municipal information to be available in additional languages where needed. I recognize that one councillor cannot guarantee every outcome, and I won’t make promises that depend entirely on the support of others, as are many council decisions. What I can promise is to come prepared, listen respectfully, and ask thoughtful questions to make informed decisions. Ward 4 Dave Gabriele CTV News is awaiting a response. Travis Jacques CTV News is awaiting a response. Kelsey Santarossa Why are you running for councillor of ward 4 in Lakeshore? I am running because I love working with people who wake up every day and see the best our community has to offer and who work tirelessly to make it even better. What was true for me when I ran for the first time in 2018 is still true today. We need to have more diverse voices around the council table. When I was first elected, I was the youngest woman elected to local office in Ontario. I have since served while navigating the housing market as a first-time home buyer and experiencing the joys of becoming a mom. I have the experience that teaches me that informing decisions isn’t enough. We have to take responsibility for the communities we want to live in. While I am incredibly grateful for the honour of serving two terms, I am running for a third term because I am enthusiastic about the work ahead, and confident in my ability to contribute. We have established master plans, initiated projects, and determined funding strategies for the infrastructure that will help us to grow. But the next council is responsible for two key things: Keeping that essential work on track and deciding how and for whom our communities will grow. On a personal note, it would have been a challenge to step back knowing that the next term will focus so heavily on improving our planning practices and policies. In another life, I would have loved to be a planner. Instead, I have immersed myself in the evolving in the legislation and frameworks that exist today, so that I can better navigate them and influence change for a better tomorrow. Ward 4 is home and deserves strong and capable leadership that is proud of where we are and excited about what’s to come. I want to invest my time at the council table so that residents, businesses, and volunteers who invest their time, money, and effort are proud of what we can do together. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the ward and how would you address it? As a council, we have made significant investments in water and wastewater infrastructure, with much of the work planned in the Eastern and Western parts of Lakeshore over the next term. These investments and future construction are essential and will support the long-term health of our municipality. However, they also mean that the infrastructure that will enable more growth in Ward 4 is further away and that traffic into town will be more of a challenge in the near future. We add to that additional economic strain and ongoing tariff and free-trade negotiations, and the next term will require us to focus on the services, businesses, and spaces close to home. This means local business supports, and investments in our waterfront to keep folks comfortable coming into and staying in town. We can accomplish this through funding and refining the new Community Improvement Plan (CIP) for businesses so that Lakeshore can contribute to their investments in accessibility, façade upgrades, renovations, and more. We must work hand in hand with our Belle River BIA to support local events and business attraction, expansion, retention, and promotion. We can support our local community organizations and event organizers as cultural drivers. Finally, we need to invest in Lakeview Park and West Beach to unlock its potential for our residents and visitors. I have proposed the implementation of a new Municipal Accommodation Tax that will come back to the next council for adoption. If approved, 70 per cent of the funding is proposed will go to a new Regional Parks Reserve that will enable investments at Lakeview Park and West Beach and that Atlas Tube Recreation Centre. The other 30 per cent will be directed to the economic development reserve, which could be directed to the CIP or community grants for parks activation and local events. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? The millions of dollars we have received from upper levels of government directly relieve the burden placed on the tax levy, development charges, and water and wastewater rates. Ensuring the timely completion of these projects helps us protect our ratepayers and invest wisely in our future. Across Lakeshore, this means building more missing links and rehabilitating old sidewalks. For Ward 4, this means finishing the Ruscom River loop and path connecting Seasons Creek to Notre Dame. We also need to prepare grant-ready plans for park improvements. The first sets the stage for where and how we grow, the second gives us the details of what we allow. This is a great step in helping to reduce red tape in development by openly permitting more of what we would like to see built here in Lakeshore. In particular, I want this to be an exercise that engages more than our typical development community, but one where residents are deeply involved. With many provincial changes to how residents and council can speak to or appeal development, getting involved early is the best way to understand our potential and what is coming down the line. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? I’m a young woman, a mother, a recent first-time home buyer, a volunteer. I am an entrepreneur by experience and a community builder by profession. I am also the only candidate with eight years of experience at the table. I bring a unique combination of perspective and experience that means I understand the job and its impact on our communities. I have a deep understanding of the direction council has provided, where key projects are, and where and how we need to be moving forward. I know how to work within the municipal process, ask the right questions, and provide effective direction. I am also willing to challenge the system when there are better ways of working. Professionally, my background in entrepreneurship and non-profit leadership gives me another edge. As a workforce and community developer, my job involves bringing organizations together, managing complex initiatives, developing evidence-based recommendations, and turning ideas into practical outcomes. When funding and resources are tight, I know that innovation, collaboration, and getting creative are the solutions that lead to success. As a systems-thinker, I am constantly refining my understanding of “who does what” and “who needs to be connected” in spaces across economic development, education, community safety, immigration, workforce development, community services, and so much more. Personally, I’m a mom to a young family, a millennial, and a recent first-time home buyer. I bring a unique (and often missing) perspective to council. It’s hard to make decisions for the next generation without us at the table. That’s why I am focused on how council sets the stage for how we all engage in community services and spaces, and how we can better enable strong businesses and development that meet the expectations of Lakeshore’s diverse community members. I am the only ward councillor candidate in Lakeshore that received the Windsor and District Labour Council endorsement. Finalement, je suis une candidate bilingue et participante dans notre communauté francophone. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? In general, I am leery of politicians making promises. The big things do not get done without the support of a majority of council. That said, I promise that I will continue to be a predictable councillor. I want you and our administration to know where I stand on key issues and what you can expect of me at the table and in the community. When we are consistent in the frames of questions we ask and the standards we set for administration, we all work better together. When residents can expect that I will do more than show up for a meeting or event, but will advocate clearly, collaborate with council, and pursue reasonable and timely answers and solutions, we build trust. I will continue to use the tools of the job available to me. I will bring forward motions, push for budget inclusions, ask hard questions, and work behind the scenes with Team Lakeshore to move work forward. I’ll keep helping to organize and build community events and initiatives, celebrate our local businesses and organizations, support our municipal staff, and advocate for thoughtful development that creates opportunities for different kinds of people to live, work, and build a future here. I believe I have been a strong voice for progress in Lakeshore. If renewed infrastructure, grant funding, people-focused development, a stronger fire department, vibrant parks, connected communities, business supports, and safer streets are the “more of the same” you’re looking for, I hope I can count on your support. Ward 5 Tim McDermott CTV News is awaiting a response. Ian Ruston - Incumbent CTV News is awaiting a response. Ward 6 Louis Tremblay CTV News is awaiting a response. Larissa Vogler - Incumbent Why are you running for councillor of Ward 6 in Lakeshore? As a lifelong resident of Ward 6, I am deeply committed to our community and want to continue to fight to ensure that we receive our fair share of investments and upgrades in our area. I have a long history of serving the community through volunteering, board and committee membership, and in the role of councillor this past term. I believe that I bring the knowledge, experience, and a track record of success that proves that I am capable of delivering results for our residents and I have the passion and energy to do exactly that. What do you believe is the most important issue facing the ward and how would you address it? Although we have seen significant upgrades in our area over my first term of council, Ward 6 still requires substantial investment to bring services up to standard. Many of our eastern residents lack municipal water, and our communities are in desperate need of sanitary sewage capacity. Lakeshore has over 500 kilometres of roads, and approximately one third of those roads are in Ward 6. A number of our area roads are in need of repair, rehabilitation, or replacement. Infrastructure remains the most important issue in Ward 6. If elected, what are your top three priorities during your first term? I will remain focused on working towards a solution for our water and wastewater needs in Ward 6, supporting critical infrastructure upgrades to move these projects forward. I will also continue to lobby for grants and funding from other levels of government to support these projects to ensure that the financial burden on rate payers is minimized. I am fiscally responsible and will continue to work hard to maintain the lowest taxes in Essex County by seeking efficiencies, exploring alternative funding sources, and voting against unnecessary spending. Flooding continues to be a concern throughout much of the municipality, especially during significant rainfall events which are becoming more frequent. I will continue to support flood risk mitigation measures including responsible land-use planning, enhancements to our stormwater and wastewater infrastructure, and improvements to our pumping stations and drainage systems. How do you differ from your fellow candidates? Having completed my first term on council, I have the knowledge and experience that will enable me to “hit the ground running” and maintain the momentum we have created this past term. That continuity will allow us to continue to advance priority projects without delay. I am running on my record, and that is a record of success, including the most significant investments in Ward 6 in a single term since Lakeshore amalgamated in 1999. As a local small business owner, I have experience with project management, budgeting and cost control, customer relations, and in my previous career as the Director of Marketing and Development for an international manufacturer/retailer, I have extensive experience in staff management, strategic planning, and troubleshooting. What’s one promise you’re making today that voters can hold you accountable for in four years? I promise to be responsive, returning your calls, emails, or requests to meet in person. I will continue to fight for the best interests of Ward 6 residents. These responses have been edited grammatically only.
