A familiar face in the Counties is looking to make her debut in municipal politics.
Alison McDonald, a Crysler resident, has filed her nomination papers with the Township of North Stormont for this fall’s municipal election.
Alison started thinking about running for a seat on council a few years ago after being inspired by the passion of residents on big issues in the community, and by her work on local development projects.
“I’m really excited to announce that I will be putting my name forward, it’s something I’ve been thinking about for a long time,” said McDonald. “I’m proud of our community and after working in the planning and environmental sector for 14 years, I’m looking forward to putting my passion and knowledge to work from the other side of the Council table.”
As someone who works, lives, and volunteers in North Stormont, Alison is familiar with many of the local challenges and opportunities for growth, business development, and improvements to recreational and community services.
McDonald’s stint as the Manager of Planning at the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas, and Glengarry saw the introduction of the popular Regional Incentives Program that provides funding to local businesses. While at the Counties, Alison also Chaired working groups with the Conservation Authority which brought municipalities together with the agricultural community to discuss forest conservation.
In her current role at South Nation Conservation, McDonald leads the Authority’s planning and development review work on behalf of 16 municipalities in Eastern Ontario to deliver essential services throughout the region.
“I regularly work with complex budgets and tight timelines and I’m always working to save time and money for our residents. I also have years of experience serving the public on challenging issues like development of new subdivisions, on-site sewage permitting, and dealing with natural hazards and drinking water protection. I see these experiences as valuable additions to the Council table.”
McDonald has also previously volunteered with the Glengarry Pipe Band, the McIntosh Park Committee, the International Plowing Match, and the Crysler Community Garden.
“I look forward to bringing my love for our community and my extensive knowledge of timely, efficient municipal service together to serve local residents,” added McDonald.
The local municipal election day is October 24, 2022.
