There has been much made of the influence of partisan politics at the municipal level in Barrie. Certainly there are clues that some parties are trying to get their own supporters elected to municipal office. The Conservative party held training sessions for municipal candidates, including our MP Patrick Brown as a speaker. A number of past and current councillors, and current candidates, have either worked on Patrick Brown's campaign, worked in his constituency office, hold (or spouses hold) government-awarded positions, or have served on the executive of the Conservative (federal) or PC (provincial) riding associations. And of course, one of the mayoral candidates is Patrick's uncle.
In past elections it seemed that the Liberal Party was also involved at the local level, probably in response to successful Conservative involvement. It is likely that they are somewhat involved again this time, although clearly not as effectively or as universally as the Conservatives.
I make no secret of the fact that I'm a member of the provincial and federal Green Parties. Rather, I'm proud of what I've accomplished in bringing to the discussion issues which other parties often overlook: sustainaibility, true fiscal and personal responsibility, and democratic reform. Along with many other dedicated and inspired volunteers, I have helped grow our local riding associations by over 1000% and make Barrie one of the Greenest ridings in Ontario and Canada by vote share. I have learned firsthand that a regular citizen can step up to the plate, get involved in the political process, and have real positive effects in the community.
However, I am not running for Trustee as a Green Party candidate. I have not been provided any information, training, or free resources from the Green Party for my campaign. The Green Party has not parachuted in candidates for all positions, or in fact for any of them. I am not running to represent the Green Party, nor will the Green Party "control" me if I am elected. (Quite the contrary - if elected, I will have to step back from many of my current Green Party activities due to the time I will need to commit to the Trustee position). My concern with education in Barrie predates my involvement with the Green Party, and goes far beyond any party platform. I have always worked at the local level through a number of non-partisan community groups and will continue to do so.
Trusteeship is not a partisan role, there are no parties sitting around the table at the Board office. I am running for this position not as a Green Party member, but as a concerned member of the community who feels that we are not currently being properly represented at the School Board. If you agree, then consider voting for me on October 25.
