Why I Ran for Mayor

In June 2022, a neighbour called me up and wanted to talk about ‘this garbage issue’. Since I was a former Councillor for McNab/Braeside (2014-2018) he thought perhaps I knew something about it. He came over and told me about the Township’s plans to build a $30-$40 million waste processing plant across the river from us where the Township Landfill is located; however, this was the first I had heard of this. The whole concept was somewhat surrealistic to me since as a Board Member of Prevent Cancer Now, I had literally fought these incinerators across Ontario, including the failed Plasco plant in Ottawa which used the same technology. And now there was one going up in my back yard…. Five minutes after he left, I knew that I was running for mayor to stop this. Serving as mayor would also be an opportunity for me to contribute towards a goal that I have always been passionate about—building a more inclusive democracy and empowering citizens.

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Our Current Reality of Non-Transparency

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I promised three core planks in my campaign:

• Open and Transparent Governance

• Fiscal Responsibility with Taxation only as necessary

• Protect McNab/Braeside’s Environment

While I have been personally unwavering in my commitment to these core values, if you have been following Council goings-on, it is fairly obvious that in terms of your Township’s leadership, most of this is a fail to this point. I have tried unsuccessfully to work with both this Council as a whole, and the Township administration towards these ends. 

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In terms of transparency, you have not heard everything pertinent to how your Township is governed, nor the truth of its financial situation and the upcoming financial pressures; in fact, far from it. It only takes a small group—basically a minimum of four—to control everything that is decided and what is communicated to you, and I am not one of those four, nor is Councillor Campbell. 

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What Transparency Looks Like

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When I served on Council previously, I had zero concerns about the accuracy of the information that was presented to Council with respect to the finances. The information was reliable, albeit somewhat concerning. While the Township held no debt at the time, our infrastructure—roads and buildings—were in dire need of investment. A plan had been put in place for the much-needed improvements to buildings and roads by the previous Council (2010 to 2014), but significant tax increases were inevitable to realize these plans. This was on top of a tripling of our OPP costs and other financial pressures. In addition to significant tax increases, McNab/Braeside would have to take on debt for the first time.

As mayor, I am also on Renfrew County Council where similarly, the financial information presented is trustworthy and clear. I am happy to report that I have observed ultimate respect for the electorate and their tax dollars through the professionalism and commitment of their elected officials on County Council. The Strategic Plan is well thought-out and was developed through an inclusive and open process. A highly skilled administration adheres to all governing documents such as The Municipal Act 2001, its Procedural By-laws and Code of Conduct, as well as other governing laws and regulations, in fastidious detail. This attention to good and effective process has empowered the County of Renfrew to produce many innovative solutions to complex problems such as doctor shortages, social issues such as mental illness and addiction, and the housing supply at all levels, but particularly for those who are struggling. 

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Why I am Writing this Blog

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McNab/Braeside, however, is virtually a polar opposite on the transparency, governance, and communication fronts. This dysfunction is insulated by a Provincial bureaucracy that abuses its power. Multiple sets of numbers that don’t add up, and don’t make sense to a reasonable person have been presented. Laws, regulations and written procedures are followed when convenient and blatantly ignored when not. I have tried everything in my power to correct this except bringing this to you directly; however, the time has come for me to do so now through this blog. 

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I can assure you that that the many basic services for which the Township is responsible are done well; however, the long term health of the Township is what drives me. I hope to make you aware of these very alarming and disturbing areas of concern.

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You Have a Voice

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I ask for your patience as it will take some time to lay out the issues. What can you do? You would be surprised at what effect you can have if you take notice, educate yourself, keep an open mind and express your views directly and respectfully to Council. 

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I still believe that McNab/Braeside can be that safe and prosperous place we all want to live, grow up, raise a family, or live out one’s young adult life through to the golden years—a township that we can all be proud of, that includes citizen input and involvement regularly, and one that is run efficiently with a reliable financial plan moving forward. However, for this to happen there will need to be some significant changes and that will need to be driven by you as citizens. As an electorate, we have been very conditioned to believe that all we can do is vote, and therefore most people feel victimized and helpless.

Please contact me at any time with any comments, questions, or your own ideas and opinions concerning any of the material contained herein.

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Respectfully,

Mark MacKenzie

January 2025