MIKE FORD

I have been a resident of Alberton since 2000. I first joined council in 2001 as an appointment to fill a vacancy.
In 2006, it was the battle of the Mikes for position of reeve, which current reeve Michael Hammond won by eight votes.
In February of 2007, I again was appointed to fill a vacancy on council and I have held that position ever since.
In my 18 years as a resident, a husband, a father, and councillor, I have seen the community grow and evolve. Such accomplishments include the millennium rink site, the development of the park, and surface treatment of 23 km of roads.
Most of these projects were accomplished with sound financial planning and the use of available grants.
There also has been a population shift in the township; houses that once contained “empty nesters” are now homes to growing families.
A significant portion of our annual budget is consumed by federal- and provincial-mandated programs that the township must fund. This leaves the township very little left to work with.
If elected reeve, I would like to see the residential tax base grow while maintaining our rural character. We need to add the services that families find attractive.
Many households and businesses, for instance, have trouble accessing a reliable internet connection. I would like the new council to explore available grants and partnerships to improve our access to internet and TV.
I also would like to continue with the development of our park, working towards the eventual goal of re-establishing a hall on that site.
The Alberton Volunteer Fire Department currently is upgrading to meet newly-mandated regulations. I would like to see the department continue with the upgrade.
We need to keep our taxes affordable for families and businesses.
On Oct. 22, get out and vote!
Editor’s note: Incumbent Mike Hammond is the other candidate for reeve but he did not submit a profile by the deadline.