Steady Leadership Starts with Listening
As I reflect on the past.
Over the past several years, our community has been through a lot.
We came out of the pandemic into rising costs, pressure on families, an aging roads and water systems, changing weather conditions, and concerns about how quickly the community is growing.
Across Ward 1, people have been feeling the strain.
Together, we've worked to improve parks and public spaces, rebuild roads and water systems, invest in recreation and waterfront areas, partner to bring healthcare and jobs closer, and ensure growth is handled carefully as Georgina continues to grow.
I am glad that you helped shape our progress.
There is still important work ahead.
Steady, practical leadership matters as we move forward. I heard that you want leadership that stays connected and keeps working alongside the community to get results.
When this term of Council began.
Quickly, it became more than just maintaining what we had.
It was a time to take stock, restore, repair, and reinvest in the community, while better preparing for our future.
Many parks, pathways, roads, and public spaces had been overlooked for too long, and they weren't reflecting the pride we want to feel in our neighbourhoods.
I truly heard you loud and clear: we had to raise our standards.
I agreed, and it was time.
Simcoe Landing - the Haskins and Queensway area was an unkempt, overgrown boulevard.
Thank you for your trust.
This wasn't about politics or making empty promises; it was about awareness first, steady work, and a focus on tangible improvements that impact your everyday life.
Often, I think back to the conversations we had and I appreciate the eye-on-the-street feedback along the way.
As each day passed, I could see your requests being completed and our community spaces improving.
Together, we got a lot done in Ward 1.
Simcoe Landing - the Haskins and Queensway area is now planted and a well-kept boulevard.
Community-Roots run deep.
For over 20 years, well before my time on the council, I have been actively involved in shaping our community through local volunteer efforts, food support initiatives, accessibility advocacy, business operations, and community partnerships.
I have always believed that "strong communities are built by people who care for them, consistently show up, and strive to leave things better than they found them."
Georgina, I think it’s important to reflect on and celebrate our ability to support one another.
Time and again, we rise to the occasion by helping each other—whether it's through paying it forward at local restaurants, volunteering at schools or with sports teams, planning and running events, or raising funds for food, clothing, and other essential needs.
Every action we take, no matter how small, helps protect our sense of community. Simple gestures like holding the door open or being mindful of our speed really add up!
I am truly proud to be part of such a friendly and generous community.
Today, and as we move forward.
The cost of living keeps rising. Families are trying to stretch every dollar further. I hear that you're concerned about traffic, speeding, road conditions, flooding, safety, and whether the community is changing too quickly.
I hear those concerns often, and I share many of them myself.
There is still important work ahead.
I'm running for re-election because I am excited to do the work, care deeply about our community, and believe Ward 1 deserves steady, practical leadership that stays connected.
Over the coming months, check in, I'll be sharing past renewal projects, partnerships, and challenges that defined this chapter.
I look forward to seeing you again and hearing what matters most as we move forward.
Talk soon,
Charlene
Charlene Biggerstaff
Ward 1 Councillor - Candidate
I've believed that strong communities are built by people who care for them, show up consistently, and work to leave things better than they found them.
Charlene
