A lifelong Lake of Bays resident, small business owner and community volunteer, Sarah Roberts has announced her plans to seek a seat on council, saying she wants to help shape a strong future for the next generation.
Roberts said the decision to run came as she found herself with more time to devote to community service after stepping back from some long-term volunteer commitments as her daughter entered high school.
“I’ve been thinking hard about what kind of place we’re building for the next generation,” she said. “I want to preserve and enhance the quality of life we all cherish, and make sure our youth have every reason—and the means—to stay and build their lives here.”
Raised in Lake of Bays, she grew up in a family involved in the local tourism industry. Her family operated Friendly Acres Resort in Hillside from the mid-1970s through the 1990s. After spending time living in British Columbia and Mexico, she returned to the area and, in 2007, partnered with her brother to establish the Acres Driving Range, a business she continues to operate today.
The business is currently expanding by adding a Muskoka-themed miniature golf course.
Beyond her business interests, Roberts said she has been active in the community through a variety of volunteer roles, including serving as chair of the Irwin Memorial Public School Council, coaching and managing youth sports teams, and sitting on the board of the Huntsville Girls Hockey Association.
If elected, she said she would bring a practical perspective shaped by years in the tourism sector, extensive community connections and nearly two decades as a small business owner.
“A councillor should be a bridge between the Township and the people,” he said. “I will be approachable, committed to listening and learning, and ready to do the good work of effective governance.”
Roberts said among her priorities are managing growth in a way that protects the township’s character and natural environment, while ensuring Lake of Bays remains a desirable place to live and work.
She said she is also paying close attention to changes at the provincial level that could affect municipal decision-making and wants to ensure the Township of Lake of Bays maintains a strong voice in discussions that affect local residents.
The candidate said her vision for Lake of Bays centres on sustainability, affordability, environmental stewardship and community engagement.
“I care deeply about Lake of Bays and the future we are building,” she said. “I want Lake of Bays to stay a vibrant, resilient home for all of us, where decisions are made with sustainability, affordability, environmental stewardship and community input at the forefront.”
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Congratulations Sarah!
I can’t imagine a better person to represent this community. You’ve got my support, all the way. Thank you for doing this.
Thank you for making a mini putt. We are in need of amenities in our town and it’s great to know there are business people willing to take risks! I am sure that you would do a great job on the Lake of Bays council.
You couldn’t have a more passionate & committed person representing Lake of Bays than Sarah. I’ve watched her lead and bring groups together to work towards a common cause. Lake of Bays would be lucky to have someone like Sarah on council. You Go Girl!
Sarah, congratulations on letting your name stand for council. With your experiences and successes at so many levels of volunteering in the community, along with your small business history, as well as views to the future of the Township and the area in general, you would be a vote in the right direction.
Bob and Sue Barnhart