MBC News file photo
A feeling that Ward 1 is sometimes forgotten by Norfolk County was a recurring theme as local council candidates took the stage in Port Rowan.
Greg D’Hulster and incumbent councillor Tom Masschaele faced questions about small businesses, municipal services, county spending and how they would make sure residents across the large rural ward have a voice at council.
The September 15 All Candidates Night was hosted by the Long Point Country Chamber of Commerce at the Port Rowan Community Centre.
When asked about supporting local businesses, D’Hulster said Norfolk County’s staff should play a role.
D’Hulster added County staff also has a role to play in supporting businesses already operating in the area.
Masschaele said planned growth in Port Rowan could create opportunities for businesses, but he noted some key infrastructure is important.
That discussion moved into a concern heard from residents during the evening, how to make sure Ward 1 and its many smaller communities do not feel forgotten when county-wide decisions are made.
Masschaele said communities beyond Port Rowan and St. Williams can sometimes feel isolated, and councillors need to spend time in those areas to understand what residents are experiencing.
D’Hulster agreed with Masschaele on getting out to these smaller hamlets and said representation should not depend on the size or location of a community.
Municipal services were another major part of the discussion, including roads and snow removal. D’Hulster said the county needs to plan betters to maintain infrastructure throughout the ward.
Masschaele also pointed to the county’s new automated garbage collection system. He said a one-size-fits-all approach may not work across Ward 1’s rural geography, particularly in places such as Long Point and smaller hamlets.
County spending was also put under the microscope.
Masschaele said one area he believes deserves review is the amount of money spent on outside consultants.
D’Hulster also questioned whether qualified county staff could handle some of the work currently given to consultants. He said staffing, contracts and other expenses are areas he would want to examine if elected.
For Ward 1 voters who feel their communities do not always receive the same attention as other parts of Norfolk, the debate gave both candidates an opportunity to explain how they would bring those concerns to the council table.
Voters will choose between D’Hulster and Masschaele when Norfolk County holds its municipal election on Monday, October 26.
Voters can reach the candidates at the following email addresses.
Greg D’Hulster: gregdfor.ward1norfolk@gmail.com
Tom Masschaele: tom4council@gmail.com
Written by Jeremy Hall
