Donald Westcott — Severn Ward 5
My name is Donald Westcott, and I have been a resident of the Township of Severn for 22 years. My wife Cathy and I have called Ward 5 home for the past 10 years. I am the father of three adult children and grandfather of two grandsons. I retired from my career as a police officer and worked for a local home contractor.
As incumbent Ward 5 councillor for the Township of Severn, I have gained significant knowledge of The Municipal Act as well as policy, procedure and protocol. As a strong communicator who is accessible to the residents, I am committed to being an active and effective member of council. If re-elected, I will uphold these qualities and continue my role of positive leadership on township council.
My first four years as councillor have seen a property tax increase in 2018 of 0.33%; 1.6 million dollars in road reconstruction for Ward 5; and access for Severn residents to Orillia Public Library services.
As an involved community member, I have been active, as on the Washago Canada Day, Santa Claus Parade and Canada 150 celebration committees; member and current president of the Washago Garden Club; fundraiser for the Washago Community Centre, Washago Garden Club and The Friends of the Washago Water Tower; and facilitator of the wooden paddle and Maple Leaf art projects in Washago.
If re-elected, my priorities would include maintaining a minimum property tax increase; continued support for road and bridge upgrades; improved internet and wireless service for rural areas in Ward, 5 and keeping a “watchful eye” on our rural environment. Washago priorities would include upgrades of the sewer system, advocating for a sidewalk on Quetton Street to the Washago Centennial Park, and additional parking in the Washago business sector.
The Township of Severn is a unique and picturesque place to live and work. If re-elected I would be proud to continue serving the residents of Ward 5.
Campaign office: 3113 Muskoka St., Washago; telephone number: ; website: ; email address: