Region of Queens candidate profiles

Mayor John Leefe is returning by acclamation for a third term as a representative of the county as a whole.

Counc. Darlene Norman and Deputy Mayor Douglas Adam are also acclaimed in District 1 and District 8 respectively.

District 2

Sheldon Brannen

Sheldon Brannen sees lots of potential in Queens County.

Brannen has worked as an independent financial consultant in Queens Co. for the past six years, after spending six years in Halifax. “My wife and I didn’t want to raise a family in the city,” he says.

His motivating factor for seeking a seat in council is to help the town grow and improve so that his children will have a great place to grow up.

Brannen has been attending council meetings for a year and a half and is very active with the South Queens Chamber of Commerce,. “I feel I am aware of the issues and challenges we face, as well as the opportunities we have in Queens. I want to see us make the most of it.”

Loss of our population is one of his biggest concerns that he wants to take with him to council. “It’s obvious that people are talking how we’re losing our youth because they can’t get adequate jobs here or better ones out west. “Almost a bigger concern is our loss of seniors. We’re seeing too many seniors who no longer want to take care of their large homes, and they would like to have other accommodations like condos or seniors apartments.”

Other communities like Bridgewater are giving this option, he says and unfortunately Queens can’t provide that right now. That’s something he hopes to change.

By Nick Moase

Charles “Bucky” Norman

Charles “Bucky” Norman wants to work hard for his community.

The retired machinist has long been involved with the community. He served as a volunteer fire fighter for 16 years, a founding member of the Queens County Garden Club, and was a founding member of the King’s Orange Rangers reenactment association for which he currently sits as Sergeant Major.

Now he wants to take this to the next level as a councillor for the Region of Queens. “I will promise that I will work hard and do my best for you and for our community of Queens. I will make myself available to you to work with you for the betterment of our community.”

Norman says that another key issue is creating options for younger people. “We need to create some jobs in Queens County to keep our young people in town.”

By Nick Moase

Laurie Lethbridge

When Laurie Lethbridge moved back to Liverpool after 24 years out west in 2002, he saw a municipal system that needed work.

Lethbridge says the Region needs to cut down on its wasteful spending. An example he gives is the Cobb’s Ridge area. “Two or three times its been dug up and paved, which is stupidity. If you’re going to do it, do it. If you need to wait for a project to get underway, wait instead of opening up the road, then closing it up again.”

After 24 years, one of the changes he noticed most in the community was how many small businesses closed up. This is something he feels needs to return. “We have to bring in more businesses. Not necessarily large ones either. If we have six or seven businesses coming in hiring a few people, it’s better then one big one coming in hiring a 100 but closing again in a couple of years.”

He sums his goals as “get the economy going and get the people more involved. I know it’s hard to do, but if they don’t express their voice or have someone express it for them, everything is just going to be rubber stamped.”

By Nick Moase

Ron Lane

Ron Lane is returning to municipal politics 11 years after the town and county amalgamated.

Lane served as Mayor for the former Town of Liverpool, where he says he pursued transparency in government. He hopes to bring this back. “I’d like to see a more open council, so that the public is aware of what’s being done with their money.”

Lane has been very involved in the community as a business leader owning and operating Lane’s Privateer Inn since 1962. He has also served as president of the Nova Scotia School Boards Association, President of South Queens Chamber of Commerce, and District Governor for Lions International of Nova Scotia.

He says he decided not to run in his district of residence for two reasons. “One, the incumbent didn’t re-offer and all those who put in their names are equal. I had no desire to unseat one who wanted to serve. I think it is a noble dedication that drives people to do that.”

The second reason comes from his days as mayor. “I campaigned through that district (for mayor) at that time and I think I have some insight into the feelings of people there.”

By Nick Moase

District 3

Owen Hamlin

Owen Hamlin wishes to expand his role from “just a volunteer” to helping create municipal policy as a prospective councillor for District 3.

Hamlin, well known for his 14 years with the Privateer Days Commission, is a retired teacher, and past chair or member of the Nova Scotia Festival and Events Council, Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia, South Shore Tourism, and numerous other organizations.

He says, “I hope to represent my district and the broader issues of the Region and I will be talking for my constituents, not me.”

Issues at present include a new planning strategy for the entire Western Head-Mersey Point area, and to study current infrastructure plans, if elected, as both a benefit for residents and an attraction for future residents and businesses. “We have many people working here but who live away. If they lived here, the money would remain inside. I’d give the operation a good look around.”

The hospital, low-income housing and tourism “as a greater economic generator” are other issues, he says for example.

By Mark Roberts

Brian MacDougall “Everything I do is because I want to do it and I enjoy them,” says Counc. Brian MacDougall.

MacDougall has been with the Region of Queens since amalgamation in 1996 and is seeking his fourth term as councillor for District 3.

He says that running his income tax business has given him insight into those that are disadvantaged, and motivated him to do what he can to help. An example of this is the property tax exemption, which through the council has been increased at least every second year. “The taxpayers of Queens County that need the help are getting help.”

MacDougall also says that Queens Place is critical in the growth of Queens County, and he says he will donate a substantial part of his taxable income to the development over the next four years if elected. “I want to give back to a community that has been very good to me. I want my children, grandchildren and everyone in the community to appreciate and enjoy what I’ve been able to do.”

By Nick Moase

Mark Whynot

When Mark Whynot graduated from university, he and his wife moved away for better jobs and a better life. He realized however that there is no better life than one in Queens Co.

Whynot was fortunate enough to buy a business, GEOMAP Surveying and Engineering, when he returned but he still sees too many leave. “I’ve seen a lot of our friends that have got training and have moved away that really want to come back. But this just being a beautiful place isn’t enough. You also have to have an economy to get a head in life.”

One of his goals if elected is to create an atmosphere in Queens Co. that brings in small businesses with good paying jobs.

Since moving back to Queens, he has been very involved with the South Queens Chamber of Commerce serving as director. He is also a board member with the Area Advisory Committee and a councillor with the Association of Nova Scotia Land Surveyors.

He says the Region is at a turning point now, and that he has the ability and background to see it through. “It’s time for a change. We’ve been doing the same thing for 20-30 years so maybe its time for some younger blood.”

By Nick Moase

District 4

Bruce Inglis

Bruce Inglis wants to bring a strong voice to Region of Queens Municipal Council.

The lifelong resident of Liverpool chose to run in a different district than the one he resides in because it is the business core of Liverpool. “The business front needs a strong new voice and we need a strong vision of how we’re going to diversify our economy.”

For the past 11 years he has run Bruce Inglis Financial, on Market Street in Liverpool. He has also been very active within the community, serving as Past co-chair of the Queens Chamber of Commerce, President of the Kinsmen, a Board member of Queens VON and a director for the Queens Memorial Arena Association.

Some of his goals as councillor are to stop the out migration of people both young and old to other areas. “We’re seeing too many of our bright youth leave and not feel they have the option of coming back. We’re now starting to see lifelong residents moving to Bridgewater because the housing is more suited to them.”

Inglis also wants to see the Queens Place development proceed in an open manner, so the public will know what’s going on.

By Nick Moase

Susan MacLeod

Susan MacLeod is looking for term number three with the Region of Queens. “It’s been a very rewarding experience for me,” she says.

The lifelong resident of Queens keeps very busy within the community, not only owning and operating Veinot’s Print Limited, but also being on the South Shore Public Libraries Board as Municipal Representative, and being members of the Hospital Foundation Board and the VON Board.

MacLeod says she’s active in numerous other volunteer roles as well, too many to name.

As councillor she says she enjoys representing her district and prides herself on following up all of the calls she gets. “As a councillor you are responsible for your district of course but also the county as a whole, and our present council has always taken the Region as a whole into consideration in decision making.”

She says lots of good things are happening in Queens, but there is still lots to do.

The big issue she wants to tackle if reelected is the growth of the community. MacLeod wants to see more emphasis on housing developments for both young people and seniors.

By Nick Moase

Cameron Crowell

Cameron Crowell took time to put thought and consideration into running for District 4 in the Region of Queens municipal election. “I didn’t come to the decision to run for council on a whim.”

That’s why he went through District 4 to see if what he heard as a resident matched what he thought were some of the key points of people in the area.

Crowell wants to draw on his experience working with all three levels of government to use when tackling the issues of the area.

Infrastructure is one point he wants to bring, with a key element being that Queens cannot lose its hospital. Another is giving options to senior citizens. “We’re bleeding in that area. We’re losing our senior citizens to other communities. We should be looking at senior citizen housing and smaller units so they can remain independent. By selling the larger home, they could bring in younger families. It’s a win-win situation.”

Maintaining and improving our downtown is important now as well so people can shop locally. He does not want to see it deteriorate like some towns have.

Finally, he sees the role of council is caretaking of the public’s taxes not owners, and wants work with the Region that way.

He is running against Bruce Inglis and Counc. Susan MacLeod.

By Nick Moase

District 5

Eleanor Reid

Eleanor Reid wants to be up front and honest with the people.

Reid has lived in Queens County for 26 years, and likes to be the go-to person to get things done. “If someone comes to me (with an issue), I’ll deal with it. It doesn’t make any difference if it is small, medium or large.”

An example she gives is when the Milton Community Association needed new garbage cans; she was there to get it done.

Reid also ensures she keeps in touch with the Region of Queens Municipality. “Everyone out at the Region knows me. They know that I’m pushy. If they don’t deal with me the first time, they’ll have to deal with me the second and third time.”

By Nick Moase

Joanne Acocella

Milton resident Joanne Acocella is running in District 5 because, “I want to stay involved in the community and I’ve always been interested in community affairs.”

She says she wants to work in council as a “member of a team” and with the community.

In fact, her campaign slogan is, “There is no issue that big, if addressed at the right time that it can not be resolved at the best interest of the people.”

She also plans promises to be forthright with residents and promote accountability and transparency within government.

With 30 years of business experience, Acocella has also been extensively involved in the community as a volunteer. They range in example from the Queens Association for Supported Living to Zion United Church to the Junior Achievement program. It is a lengthy list. She has also donated to numerous community organizations.

By Mark Roberts

Mervin Hartlen

After 16 years as a councillor for the Region, Mervin Hartlen feels that the past four years have been the best council he’s been on. “We’ve probably done more than any other council,” says Hartlen. “Our council has one of the best reputations across the province, and that’s something that we have to uphold. We’re looked at as a model by other municipalities, and we promote that wherever we go.”

What he’s most proud of is the water and sewer projects. “Without sewer and water we don’t have anything. We now have a world class sewage treatment plant and a world class water treatment plant, and that’s what people are looking for us to develop.”

A land surveyor by trade, Hartlen now considers himself semi-retired and likes to stay involved with the community. He sat on the board of directors for the Milton Community Association for a number of years, stays involved with his children and their sports, as well as coaches basketball.

The next biggest issue he sees facing council is economic development, but he says they already have a good start. Hartlen says with the water and sewer combined with Queens Place, it will create an atmosphere ready for economic development.

By Nick Moase

District 6

Stephanie Rhodenizer Francis

Stephanie Rhodenizer Francis wants to bring a younger perspective to council. “Being a young woman with a family, I want to guarantee that Queens Co. has what is needed to prosper now and in the future. It takes all ages to support a thriving community.”

The mother of two runs a small business called “Neat,” where she helps people plan spaces and organize events.

Francis has also worked at South Shore Opportunities as a youth navigator for five years before taking time off for her family.

Much of her community work focuses around her children through Milton and Wickwire Student Advisory Committees, but she is also active within her church and with Queens County SeaFest. “Brooklyn and Beach Meadows are strong villages with many unique qualities. I want to speak with those who I hope to represent and hear their concerns and vision for our community”

By Nick Moase

Gary Levy “I don’t wait until tomorrow to do it,” says Gary Levy.

Levy believes that this drive will make him an effective councillor for the Region of Queens. “I have a lot of experience, with over 35 years with the Kinsmen. I know how to raise money.”

Some of his achievements while with the Kinsmen include holding all the executive positions throughout his membership, winning the Kinsmen Fellowship Award 11 times and organizing many projects and banquets.

If elected he wants to stay on top of the issues that are important to District 6 and the Region as a whole.

One project that excites him is the new Queens Place development. “With the new arena and facility going in, a number one priority is getting the Hank Snow Festival back to Liverpool. There’s 8 – 10,000 dollars for Liverpool right there.”

By Nick Moase

Jack Thistle

Jack Thistle wants to make sure the Region of Queens is accountable to the taxpayers.

To do so, Thistle brings his years of experience serving as union President, Vice President, Treasurer and Shop Steward of the Local 141 at Bowater. “I have a great deal of experience dealing with difficult issues.”

Other groups he has served with include the Brooklyn Recreation Committee, as a Cub leader and for The Pilgrim United Church. He has been on the Board of Directors for the Liverpool Golf Club, serving as Director and Vice President.

Currently he sits as President of the Mersey Protective Association, which administers the health benefits for the paper mill’s unionized employees and retired unionized employees. Thistle also volunteers for the Meals on Wheels program and for the breakfast program at Dr. J.C. Wickwire Academy Elementary School.

If elected, he wants to be open with the people of Brooklyn and Beach Meadows to be able to bring their issues to the table.

By Nick Moase

Randi Dickie

Randi Dickie says that “Care, Concern and Commitment for you, your family and our community,” is the basis of her value system.

Dickie recently retired as nursing director at Queens Manor after 27 years, and feels that she can really devote herself to the community at large now. “I’ve met many challenges in my work experience, but at the same time it was a very positive experience working with people,” says Dickie. “I feel that the experience has given me an excellent set of skills to take on the challenges of councillor.”

There are many issues she hopes to tackle if elected, and foremost to her is safety within communities. “I hear that in different degrees from people. It could be as simple as where’s that road sign where there’s no crosswalk up to the health of our general community.”

She also says that a priority would be senior’s outreach programs as well.

As a new grandmother, she also realizes that Child Care Initiatives are important. “I know that this is very problematic, particularly when two people in a family are working.”

By Nick Moase

District 7

John Croft

John Croft wants to draw on his years of experience by becoming councillor for District 7. “Being involved with the municipality for 24 years, I certainly know the areas that should be looked at.”

The Charleston native worked on the Halifax Police Force for 17 years until moving back to Queens Co. in 1984.

He worked for the Municipality of Queens, and later the Region of Queens as a Building Inspector and By-Law Officer, retiring at the end of Aug. this year. Croft says first and foremost he wants to look at controlling spending by the Region, to keep the taxes low or reduce them.

He also has questions to be answered. “Also another point is the tax rate versus the assessment. Is there equality throughout the Region in the services and expenditures? “Another issue I have is should the Region be purchasing heavy equipment to do various jobs, or should this be (contracted) out to heavy equipment contractors that pay their taxes in the Region?”

By Nick Moase

District 7

Rhonda Perry

Rhonda Perry has been living in Queens Co. most of her life, and currently works at the Brooklyn Power Corporation as an Administrative Assistant and in Accounts Payable.

The graduate of Liverpool Regional High School also holds two certificates, one as a Teacher’s Assistant from the Lunenburg Community College, and another in Small Business Entrepreneurship from Shelburne Community College.

Outside of work, Perry is in her second term as Vice President with the Bluenose Agility & Recreation Canines, has volunteered with Queens County SeaFest for the past four years and with the Liverpool Curling Club for the past three provincial events.

Perry decided to run for council because of her love of her community and the pride she feels in Queens County. She feels that these are exciting times with the new Queens Place development starting up, and now was the time to get involved with council.

By Nick Moase

Dwight Crouse

Dwight Crouse has been working hard since he was 16, and now he wants to take that drive to council.

Crouse put in 28 years with Irving Oil, working at everything from fuel delivery to managing the former Irving gas station on Market St.

He’s also been active within the community, working as a volunteer fire fighter in Charleston, president of the Rails to Trails project and sits on the voluntary ministerial advisory committee for safety in Nova Scotia.

Crouse believes that keeping the county’s small schools open is a priority in our area.

He also emphasizes that it is the people that he wants to represent, and not bring a personal agenda to council. “What I would like to do if elected is have a meeting within the community to find out what the issues are, and do to the best of my abilities to solve those problems.”

By Nick Moase

District 9

Suzanne Frail

Suzanne Frail, who is running in District 9, is manager of the Caledonia Visitor Information Centre.

As a result, she says, “I have a lot of experience in organizing and operational management areas and believe I would make a good councillor.”

She is involved, often volunteering through the North Queens Board of Trade, in organizing numerous activities and initiatives ranging from the 30 Mile Yard Sale to Christmas events. She is also on the Board of Directors of the Foundation for the North Queens Community Health Centre and Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute. In the fall and winter, she delivers Meals on Wheels. She was also the first female president of A.L. Patterson Branch #87 Royal Canadian Legion.

She says she wants to continue improving infrastructure in all parts of the county and promote north Queens and north Queens tourism. “It’s a great place to live, a great place to retire, and a great place to raise a child. We need to keep North Queens on the map.”

By Mark Roberts

Peter Waterman

Peter Waterman likes to help out within the community whenever he can. “That’s a big part of my whole format. Community involvement with volunteer groups.”

Waterman has served two terms as councilor for District 9.

He is on the Board of Directors at the North Queens Nursing Home, on the Board of Directors with the Nova Scotia Guides Association, and a Director with the North Queens Board of Trade.

While on council, Waterman has been able to help out financially with many projects in North Queens. Some examples he gives is helping with the North Queens medical building, funding for a new tourist bureau and a fair bit of sidewalk, along with the yearly grants he has been able to get for various community groups.

He says his biggest issue he wants to tackle is getting funding towards a new fire hall in North Queens.

By Nick Moase