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Ward 2 voters are getting a clearer picture of where their two council candidates stand on growth, farmland, downtown revitalization and rural recreation.
Incumbent Councillor Linda Vandendriessche and challenger Debbie Wilbur shared their views during a candidates debate held September 29 at the Delhi German Home. The event brought together candidates running in Wards 2, 3 and 4 ahead of Norfolk County’s October 26 municipal election.
For Ward 2, Vandendriessche and Wilbur answered questions on some of the biggest issues facing the area, including how Norfolk should grow while protecting its agricultural roots.
On residential, commercial and industrial development, Vandendriessche said Norfolk needs to expand its tax base to help address infrastructure costs. She pointed to the Highway 3 corridor as an opportunity for agribusiness, food processing and manufacturing.
Wilbur also supports development, but said council needs to understand the long-term cost of servicing new growth before projects move ahead.
The candidates were also asked how Norfolk can add housing and employment land without losing valuable farmland.
Vandendriessche said the county should first use land already zoned for residential and industrial development. She also wants the province to allow more flexibility for rural severances on land that is not considered prime farmland.
Wilbur said growth should be focused within or near existing settlement areas, where municipal services already exist or can be expanded responsibly. She also called for more infill, redevelopment and appropriate increases in housing density.
Downtown revitalization was another issue, with candidates asked how they would address vacant storefronts and strengthen retail in Delhi.
Vandendriessche said Norfolk should work with its economic development staff to recruit businesses while collaborating with BIAs, chambers, landlords and residents.
Wilbur said she would start by asking existing businesses and property owners why storefronts are vacant, including whether taxes, rent, permitting or other barriers are contributing.
The final question focused on rural arenas and recreation facilities amid discussion about investing more heavily in Simcoe facilities.
Vandendriessche said she does not support closing any of Norfolk’s five arenas and argued recreation needs to remain accessible across the county.
Wilbur agreed rural facilities are important, but said decisions should consider usage, operating costs, needed repairs and community needs rather than using one approach for every building.
Vandendriessche and Wilbur are the two certified candidates seeking the Ward 2 council seat. Online voting runs from October 9 to 23, with in-person voting taking place October 26.
Written by Jeremy Hall
