Lillian Fraser ~ candidate for election to Huntsville and District Councils

In the weeks leading up to this year’s municipal election, Huntsville Doppler will be posting a commentary from each of the local candidates. The order of appearance is completely random. To read commentary from other candidates, click here.

Meet Lillian Fraser, a candidate for election to Huntsville and District Council

I have been fortunate to not only grow up in Huntsville and raise my family here, but they have chosen to raise their families here also. There is a strong sense of community here. Employment opportunities, cultural and recreational activities for all ages. I want to give back to this community and am at a place in my life where I have the time.

I think this will be a challenging time for local politics. Our new Premier seems intent on changing some of the rules around local government, among other things. Makes me think this is a good time to look at the reduction of size of council. I am anxious to take part in those discussions on our behalf. I believe local government is important as it is what helps to shape the Town. Most people that I talk to find it frustrating that there should be so many politicians at both levels with such a small population. We have all heard the reasons before, this time the political will might be there, and I am prepared to move this forward at both Council levels.

I have recently retired from the District as an employee in Community Services, prior to that I was employed by the Town of Huntsville Public Works office. Due to my employment I have a good oversight of both levels of our local government. I am looking forward to participating in the other side of that employment. I am anxious to continue working on affordable housing. I would say for me the rental supplement program is a huge success in helping people pay their rent. The emergency shelter program is another helpful program to try and keep people housed. I applaud the move to have people living in the community as opposed to only offering social housing complexes.

While maintaining the two hospitals is a priority for us all I am feeling hope that this new government will bring a new funding formula that will be realistic We need this not only for the Town, but the outlying communities. I will continue to lobby as those who have before me to make sure this happens. This community supports so many causes, that in doing so makes it a wonderful place to live.

Striking the balance between development and our environment is always a tightrope activity. I believe that we must look at the fact that if we over develop our lakes we will no longer have the goods to offer as a prime holiday destination and a great place to live. Overuse of our water, either through having too many boats on the lakes and the fact that with today’s technology we are able to build on all lots on a lake. No longer are we held back by a steep cliff or a weedy bay. Unfortunately this is one of the reasons we must be diligent. This over use allows no spots for nature to exist on the lake. The very things that bring people to our area are disappearing. Then what?

It is my intention to work with all community groups and associations. I wanted to hear from the public also. I am willing to listen, gather information, utilize the capable staff and will consult with my fellow councillors, where appropriate. I don’t pretend to have all the answers, but I am willing to ask questions to get them.

In closing I am anxious to continue the good work that has been done by people of our community before me while working for our community. Their visions, hard work and consultations have given the next round of local politicians a good place to start.

I look forward to hearing from the people of Huntsville and am available by phone and email.

Lillian Fraser
lillianfraserfordistrict@hotmail.com

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