For over 30 years my family has cottaged in the Township of McKellar. We are now fortunate to call the Township home, having moved here year-round in 2023.
My background and training is in the energy industry. Close to 40 years experience in both management and leadership roles with proficiency in planning, finance, business controls, contracting, and marketing.
Recently, I spent 6 years on the board of directors for a not-for-profit organization, serving as board chair for the last 3 years.
Remembering and honouring the past
with a fresh perspective for building the future
What I will work towards as councillor
A clear vision for the future of McKellar supported by public input
Specific and measurable goals that reflect the short and long term priorities of residents
Financial restraint and accountability. Spending and resources aligned with defined goals
Transparent decision making with by-laws understood, respected and followed
Safeguarding the environment, protecting our lakes, shorelines and natural habitats
Leadership, guidance, and clear expectations for Township staff
Investing in our community, supporting local business and attraction of new business
Creating the Township we want for ourselves, our children, and our grand-children
Based on my observation of council over the past 2 ½ years, along with research I conducted, my plan consists of the following specific actions. I am confident these actions will streghten the Township of McKellar and provide a foundation for improvement while supporting financially responsible growth.
The Township needs a strategic plan (mission / vision / values / priorities). This strategic plan will act as a “north star” from which all decisions are reviewed against to ensure alignment
If you do not know where you are going and how to get there - you will end up someplace else
Prioritized program for roads/bridges/ buildings/ equipment improvements based on data
Increased investment in reserves to ensure long term sustainability
Financial Restraint and Accountability
I believe in managing the Township’s funds as I would my own money
Simplifiying budgeting and financial reporting to support analysis and decision making
Finalizing a two-year planning cycle before the start of the calendar year
Developing a prudent investment strategy for surplus funds/reserves
Transparent Decision Making
Ensuring accountability of council
Improved availability of staff reports and resolutions on the Township website
Using professional services (legal / insurance / accountants) to help identfy and understand risks before a decision is made
Councillor "report cards”
Safeguarding the Environment
Protecting our resources
Expanding education and programs protecting our lakes, shorelines and sensitive habitats
Maximize Ontario Community Environment Fund and Green Municipal Fund opportunities
Encourage and support sustainable community development
Leadership and Guidance for Township Staff
Set out clear direction and expectations for staff
Review and update all by-laws/resolutions that are over 5 years old
Accurate and updated listing of all roads within the municipality
Reviewing and implementating recommendations from commissioned consultant reports (as appropriate)
Senior staff attendance at council meetings
Staff performance reviews
Investing in our Community
Maximizing government grants and active lobbying for improved municipal funding
Developing programs supporting growth of local business and new business development
Ensuring community programs are available and useable to a greater number of residents
Creating the Township that all the Residents Want for Today, our Children and Grand-children
Encourage ongoing public input and participation
Learn from and leverage best practices from other municipalities
Understanding the barriers and the resistance to change.
Actively challenge “we have always done it that way” thinking
I encourage everyone share their voice as part of the municipal election process. Please reach out to me via phone or email with your thoughts.
705-346-0080
rubinlsr37@gmail.com