A Crossroads for the Thousand Islands: Who Will Steer TLTI's Future?

The air in the Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands, a place renowned for its stunning vistas and close-knit communities, is currently charged with a very local, yet incredibly vital, kind of excitement. A by-election, you see, is on the horizon – a democratic dance to fill a council seat left vacant, rather suddenly, after Councillor Brian Mabee stepped down in late November, citing personal health matters. And now, four distinct voices have emerged, each hoping to represent their neighbors, each vying for the chance to shape the township's future.

It’s quite the lineup, actually. From seasoned community advocates to former politicians, and even a local business owner with a deep community spirit, the field is, honestly, rather rich. These aren't just names on a ballot; they're individuals rooted in the TLTI, bringing their own unique blend of experience, passion, and, perhaps most importantly, a genuine desire to serve. But what, precisely, drives each of them? And what do they envision for this beautiful corner of Ontario?

First up, we have Dale Hotchkiss, a name that might sound familiar to those who've followed local politics before. A long-time resident, Hotchkiss isn’t entirely new to the by-election fray, having previously sought a council spot in 2018. His platform, you could say, is built on a bedrock of community involvement and a firm hand on the purse strings. He talks of fiscal responsibility, transparency — crucial for any healthy democracy, wouldn't you agree? — and a fierce advocacy for essential services like fire and ambulance. Hotchkiss, it seems, isn't afraid of making what he calls "tough decisions," believing them to be absolutely necessary for the township's long-term health.

Then there's David Osmond, a familiar face, perhaps, from the Canoehouse Grill & Pub, which he owns. Osmond embodies that wonderful, truly local spirit, often seen volunteering with the TLTI Lions Club. His candidacy, in truth, feels very much about community building, leveraging his small business savvy, and a real, undeniable "grassroots" approach to local issues. He's connected, he's involved, and he seems keen on bringing that same hands-on dedication to the council chambers. It’s a compelling proposition for those seeking a representative deeply embedded in the daily life of the township.

Next, we turn to Jeff Orr, who brings a wealth of prior experience to the table, and honestly, that’s a significant differentiator. Orr served as a municipal councillor for Gananoque between 1998 and 2003, which means he's walked this path before. His emphasis, naturally, is on his understanding of municipal governance, the intricacies of budgeting, and the vital importance of an official plan. He sees his background as particularly crucial right now, given the complex challenges and opportunities facing the township. For voters prioritizing experience, Orr’s candidacy presents a clear choice.

And finally, we meet Marilyn White, a retired civil servant whose passion for community betterment shines through her extensive involvement in various local groups—the Friends of Rockport Customs House, Save Rockport, and the TLTI Friends of the Library, just to name a few. White champions what she describes as "hands-on" experience in shaping local initiatives, advocating for fiscal prudence, environmental protection — an ever-present concern in such a naturally beautiful area — and, vitally, clearer communication between the council and its constituents. Her approach feels thoughtful, meticulous, and deeply engaged.

So, how does one cast a vote in this pivotal moment for TLTI? Well, convenience is certainly the name of the game. Voters can make their voices heard via internet or telephone, with the voting period running from 10 a.m. on March 15 until 8 p.m. on March 18. Keep an eye out for voter information letters, which were mailed around February 29th; they’ll have all the details. And should you need a bit of assistance, a helpline will be available throughout the voting window, with drop-in support offered on both March 15th and 18th. Eligibility, as you’d expect, requires being a Canadian citizen, at least 18 years old, and either a resident or property owner/tenant within the township, with no legal prohibitions against voting, of course.

This by-election, truly, isn't just about filling a seat. It’s about the direction of the Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands. It's about ensuring the community's needs are heard, its resources managed wisely, and its future guided by someone with genuine vision and dedication. As the voting window opens, the choice, ultimately, rests with the people, and it’s a choice that promises to shape the very fabric of this remarkable region.