SOUTH STORMONT, Ontario – Tammy Hart has been the Deputy Mayor of South Stormont for the past eight years, and before that she was a Councillor for four. Now, Hart has decided to run for Mayor.
“I’m looking forward to the challenge,” said Hart. “I feel that I’m ready for this, being that I put 12 years into everything. I look forward to working with staff and the new council we get, and I feel comfortable.”
Hart believes that Mayor Jim Bancroft improved staff communications and respect over the past four years.
“I just can’t say enough about the staff and employees in general,” said Hart. “We’ve got a good crew in every department, and they all work hard. I think that’s what makes you a good mayor at the end of the day. So, I’m hoping that will continue.”
Maintaining infrastructure is one of Hart’s priorities going into this election.
“I’m concerned about the demographics and trying to keep our little villages and towns surviving, because the cities are always getting bigger and rural areas are getting smaller,” said Hart.
Hart plans on promoting shopping locally, growing businesses and inviting development. She also plans on maintaining low taxes and transparency. Hart also prides South Stormont for having the best recreational services in the SDG Counties.
“We have a wonderful website that promotes so much,” said Hart. “We’ve improved (the website) immensely, so I think that gives a good opportunity for more tourism and growth.”
According to Hart, one of the greatest challenges for the township will be finding funding for the Long Sault-Ingleside Regional Water Treatment Plant.
“We’re talking an almost $27 million improvement plan for that, and I don’t know how we will manage that,” said Hart.
Hart believes that the township will need to be strategic with spending due to less funding from the provincial government. She also said that during the next term the township will be looking into resolving some water billing issues.
Hart loves to spend time with her grandchildren and work on her family farm. She understands how the role of Mayor may impact this, but is prepared to juggle all of her responsibilities.
“It’s certainly going to be challenging, but I’m up for that challenge,” said Hart. “I’ve already spoken to my family and husband about that and they understand the consequences of going into a field that’s more demanding than what the deputy mayor position used to be.”
The upcoming municipal election will be held on Monday, Oct. 22.
