The following set of five questions were sent to the two candidates running for the position of Mayor of Caledon. One of the candidates provided answers by deadline, which we have published below.
QUESTION – regarding attendance record
To be well informed, to have continuity on issues, and to have a vote at Council, you need to be present. If JSC conducted a review of your attendance record over the past term what would the results be? Approximately what percentage of scheduled meetings did you attend at Town Council? Regional Council? Committees?
Jennifer Innis
I have an excellent attendance record at both Town and Regional Council and committees of Council. Over the last two terms (8 years), I can count only a few times that I have not been able to attend Council meetings due to other commitments, or illness.
Annette Groves
– Did not answer the question
QUESTION – regarding having additional employment
The role of Mayor, as well as that of Regional Councillor, is considered to be a full time job. Have you, during your tenure as a Regional Councillor, held other employment? If yes, would you commit to not doing so if elected as Mayor?
Jennifer Innis
During my tenure as a Regional Councillor, I have not held other employment. The role of Mayor is 24 hours a day, you are always the mayor, in every situation. This is the duty of leadership. I have always taken my role very seriously, there is not time to balance life, council duties and have additional employment.
Annette Groves
– Did not answer the question
QUESTION – regarding priority for Mayoral role
It is possible there will be openings for Regional Chair and/or Vice-Chair at Peel Regional Council table. Do you feel that you could adequately Chair or Vice-Chair the Regional Council while fulfilling all of your duties as Caledon’s Mayor?
Jennifer Innis
Being Mayor is a full time job, as is Regional Chair. These roles are much more than chairing meetings and understanding parliamentary procedure. These roles require strong leaders, critical thinkers, and consensus builders to move forward the business of the day.
Annette Groves
– Did not answer the question
QUESTION – regarding effective, productive relationships
Sometimes candidates will make specific promises while campaigning. However, in reality, most changes normally require consideration by the whole of Council, and must be approved by a Council majority to pass and take effect. Do you feel you have demonstrated an ability to build strong relationships with your fellow Councillors? How will you improve, maintain, or mend, those relationships for Caledon’s benefit if you are elected as Mayor?
Jennifer Innis
Honesty, open communication and teamwork has led to my ability to form strong professional relationships with my colleagues on council. Despite disagreements around the Council table, respectful behaviour is a must. Council represents the community, it is impossible to have a community or a council without differing opinions, that is the very nature of a democratic government. As Mayor, I will support Council Members on their goals for a better Caledon and unite council through a Council Work Plan. This work plan will keep Council and staff focused on delivering results and hold us all accountable.
Annette Groves
– Did not answer the question
QUESTION – regarding advocacy opportunities
The annual AMO (Association of Municipalities of Ontario) Conference provides an opportunity to learn from, and build relationships with, those representing other municipalities. And it is a chance to advocate to the province for Caledon. How many AMO Conferences have you attended during your current term? What are three of the issues you advocated for at AMO on behalf of Caledon?
Jennifer Innis
In my tenure on council I have attended all AMO conferences, even virtually! The most recent trip to Ottawa included delegations on road safety, air quality, infrastructure such as the Hwy 427 extension to Hwy 9, conservation, and more. I have a strong record of advocacy for our community. This annual conference is an opportunity to meet directly with the Ministers and to learn best practices from other municipalities. AMO provides so many opportunities for municipalities, such as Caledon, that even during this year while some were campaigning, I made it a priority to be there and meet with provincial leaders to advocate for Caledon and Peel. This is advocacy in action.
Annette Groves
– Did not answer the question
NOTE: Just Sayin’ Caledon has sent an additional eight questions to all 29 candidates running for Caledon Council seats. Their answers to the questions will be published this week on JSC.
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