Where are you from and what is your background?
I was born in Kentville and raised in Cambridge, Kings County, attending local schools from elementary to college. My wife Lisa also has deep roots in Kings County, having grown up on a 3rd generation apple farm in Rockland. We have the good fortune of raising our wonderful children in our beautiful County of Kings, enjoying all the incredible opportunities our rural lifestyle has to offer. From 4-H, to dance, local sporting activities to Girl Guides, our children are thriving in the healthy lifestyle our area boasts.
From my first job as a gas station attendant at the age of 16, to my professional career of over 20 years in management roles within the transportation industry, my career has provided me with a deep appreciation for exceptional service, the incredible value of honest, respectful relationships and the importance of stretching the value of a dollar.
From an early age, I have been deeply passionate about giving back to my community, with my father setting an excellent example of the positive impacts which come from volunteering and holding a role on Council.
At the age of 21, I became a Freemason, then I was a Shriner for over 10 years. As my life evolved to the greatest fortune of having my own family, I take every opportunity to teach them the value of volunteering, from my involvement with their hobbies and activities, to holding executive roles on various boards and organizations. Our entire family is highly active with the fantastic, local organizations of the Stockings are Hung and Camp Kindness programs.
I will bring this valuable experience to best represent you, in the greatest service role as your Councillor.
Why have you chosen to run for office?
Having grown up in Cambridge, for the past 50 years I have seen firsthand, the growth and challenges our District and Kings County have endured. With my deep commitment to giving back to our community, I genuinely want to make Kings County better, by driving positive, meaningful change and making critical decisions with the best interest of our residents in mind.
I would be honored for the opportunity to roll up my sleeves and serve the local people so we may continue to thrive together both in the present and for our future generations to come.
What strengths would you bring to Council if elected?
Communication: You have my commitment to be available for you, to listen to your concerns and to always get back to you with a response. This communication will be honest, respectful, and sincere.
Hometown grown: I have deep knowledge of our area, and a passion to drive constant improvement for our continued success into the future.
Exceptional service: I pride myself on my high regard for integrity, transparency, and honesty. Everyone deserves to be treated with respect and offered the opportunity to share their opinions. I am accessible and responsive, willing to listen, to follow up with you and to work hard to resolve your concerns.
Dedication: Being an excellent Councillor takes hard work and dedication. I am willing to work hard for YOU, to invest my time, to be prepared by researching and reviewing agenda items, to listen to your concerns and opinions so I may prudently make the best decisions for our County.
What do you feel are key issues in this election and how would you address them?
Affordable Housing Crisis- As your Councillor, I will advocate to revise policies and bylaws to simplify and streamline the development process within Kings County, we will help to alleviate the housing crisis; by speeding up development opportunities and attracting more developers by showing we are open for business.
Climate Action- Our changing climate is having a negative impact on our area, and we need to seek better alternatives which are more suitable and resilient against climate change. As your Councillor, I would continue to prioritize this key issue by championing policy and bylaw changes, supporting our staff to source progressive initiatives for improved and sustainable solutions for road maintenance, flood mitigation and more proactive projects to combat climate change.
Deed Transfer Tax- As a newly elected Councillor, I would conduct an in-depth review of all relevant information and pose clarifying questions, seek input from my constituents, and gain a deeper understanding of this proposed fee in relation to the 25/26 budget deliberations. This research would allow me to make an informed decision which best represents the residents of Kings County.
What is one message you would like to send to voters?
There are many candidates who have put up their hand to represent your district and the greater good of Kings County. Please listen to what each candidate has to offer, and vote for who you feel will best represent you and all of Kings County.
Most importantly, please vote!
It would be my privilege to be YOUR VOICE on Council.