This is the fourth in a 2018 series of commentaries from municipal politicians which allows them to tell you, in their own words, what is important to them, what bugs them and what makes them tick. Each week will feature a member of either the Huntsville or Lake of Bays Council. As we enter an election year, this is your opportunity to get a better picture of your elected politicians. This week: Town of Huntsville Councillor Jason FitzGerald.
The Final Push
Writing for this municipal politician series is a great opportunity to share and focus on what we can accomplish in the final stage of our term on council.
Unfortunately, many situations can be frustrating for myself and others around the table, therefore it is important to reflect on our accomplishments and aim to have as many projects as possible completed by election time.
I am very pleased about the Fairvern build; knowing we will have a new larger facility to provide for our community is essential.
Jump-starting the affordable housing initiative in Huntsville with the Sabrina Park project is the beginning of creating a sustainable option for our young families and seniors at or below the poverty level. The effort required to establish more affordable housing is quintessential for further growth and prosperity in our community. A land trust has been discussed and should be pursued to provide a vast array of affordable options to everyone who can stay or join our community.
The relentless efforts put forward by everyone in Huntsville to push for a two-site model health care system in Muskoka has been amazing; rest assured we will continue with these efforts.
Keeping the halls operating in Aspdin, Port Sydney and Utterson has been at the forefront of my efforts. Sitting as co-chair of community services affords me the opportunity for constant input regarding all facets of operation and programming. These halls are important to the communities in which they are located for all sorts of private functions as well as municipal and district programming. I would like to see operating budgets reflect more accurately the requirements to ensure these halls are available for all to enjoy for generations to come. There are currently discussions and some budgeted improvements taking place at the community halls. Increased levels of programming are being considered as well.
Sitting on the Planning Committee and Committee of Adjustment has provided my greatest challenge in municipal governance. Every application requires careful consideration and no two applications are the same. There is no better way to fill up the gallery in chambers than an application about which constituents are passionate. Remember that these decisions have to be made for the good of the whole municipality — not always an easy decision to make.
There is great discussion taking place in the community about the historic relevance and preservation of properties of interest and designated heritage properties. As chair of the Heritage Committee, I believe our past and preservation thereof is very important. The recent formation of a group to preserve Madill Church is a prime example of how staff and council have combined efforts with the public to reach a desirable goal. The town has been approached to begin discussions with the Anglican Church regarding the future of several churches and cemeteries. Hopefully good things are to come from these discussions.
Becoming a member of council has been an eye opener for me. The learning curve is vertical. Every day I learn something new. I consider the fact that I have the ability to make decisions on behalf of my friends, neighbours, and community at large a great honour and responsibility.
I plan to run for ward councillor in the election to once again represent Stisted, Stephenson and Port Sydney.
Remember when voting that you are choosing someone to represent your best interests, who can exercise common sense, have good values and sometimes make decisions you will not agree with.
We are elected officials who are not experts in all fields, but do the best job we can to make Huntsville a great place to live, grow and prosper.
To read more in this 2018 series of commentaries from municipal politicians, click here.
Jason FitzGerald
Jason Fitzgerald has lived in Port Sydney with his wife and daughter for the past nine years. His son attends Georgian College.
Jason is the owner of Broadleaf Construction. He has 30-plus years experience in construction supervision and project management.
Jason is a member of Stephenson Lions Club, Vice President of the Huntsville Oldtimers and an active fundraiser for many local charities.
Jason represents Stisted, Stephenson and Port Sydney on Huntsville Town Council.
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