Port Hope is a special place to live and do business. Our community will grow and it will change – but that shouldn’t be at all costs. What’s important to me, is that we grow and change in the way Port Hope wants to grow and change, with decisions that reflect our collective values and protects what makes this town unique
As Mayor, this means thinking strategically about our future, being intentional about our choices, and working collaboratively and responsibly with Council, staff, and the community.
As Mayor, I am committed to working with Council to strengthen Port Hope’s existing accountability and transparency rules so major decisions are clearly explained before they are approved and the will of Council is respected. Let me explain.
Council, under the leadership of the Mayor, sets policy and strategic direction whereas staff, under the leadership of the Chief Administrative Office, operates the municipality and executes Council’s direction.
This separation between Governance (Council) and Administration (Staff) is important. It’s what keeps staff from doing things without Council’s knowledge or that go against the will of Council.
Council also must respect the will of Council. Here’s why:
Municipal government is the only level of government that’s non-partisan - by design. Council is not a political party to be whipped into a decision; it’s made up of seven individuals who each have a single vote and their role is to represent their constituents.
For any individual to go against the will of Council is to go against the will of the people.
To exclude Council in decision-making is to exclude the people.
To withhold information from Council is to withhold information from the people.
And to silence a member of Council is to silence the voice of the people.
I believe that staff and Council must respect Council’s decisions, that major decisions require Council and community consultation early in the process – not once it’s too late, and that Council should be provided with all relevant information – including the benefits and the risks – before making decisions.
Otherwise, Port Hope’s future doesn’t belong to the people of Port Hope.
I have a plan to strengthen transparency and responsible government so that
Port Hope becomes known as a community that is collaborative by design, financially secure, and determined to protect what makes our home so special.
That is the Port Hope I plan to build - together.