Paul Skippen
Paul Skippen, an incumbent Ward 4 councillor for the Town of Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands, has again decided to add his name to the ballot in this municipal election. “My past history has allowed me to be a teacher at Manitoulin Secondary School for 29-and-a-half years,” Mr. Skippen told The Expositor. In addition to teaching, he has also spent 20 years as a part time local business owner and six years as a farmer in Green Bay. “I would like to thank the people of Ward 4 for allowing me the opportunity to represent you at the last two terms of council,” he said. “I stand on my past representation for the people of Ward 4.” Through his time as a member of the Northeast Town council, Mr. Skippen has been involved with several committees including the airport commission, library, Community Development Corporation, Planning Board, Manitoulin Municipal Association and the newly developed Rural Community Services Advisory Committee (RCSAC). “I had the opportunity to contribute to these committees as well as chairing many of the Planning Board meetings and RCSAC meetings.” Mr. Skippen said he was pleased to have a hand in a number of Ward 4 “achievements” including the laying of 10 kilometers of hard top road each term. This term, a new corner at Limekiln Road was hard topped, Bidwell Road saw a grade raise and a new playground installed at the new Sheguiandah park as well as a gazebo at the Government Dock, he shared. “Council has made sure park areas have been improved and maintained for tourists and the local users.” “We have been working diligently to retain the Cup and Saucer Trail for future use,” Mr. Skippen continued. “Improvements have been made at the Sheguiandah government dock and work at the museum has improved visitors experience.” “I believe a major priority is the care of rural roads,” he added. “I also believe the public works crew has done an exemplary job and I know the services will be maintained in the future.” He cited council’s work toward the sustainability of the Manitoulin Centennial Manor, the Centennial Museum of Sheguiandah, the library and airport operation as other notable achievements during his term on council. “I have helped with the promotion of local farming operators, the farmers’ market and agriculture projects focussed on sustainability of local farming,” Mr. Skippen continued. “The past council has been able to maintain the lowest tax rates on the Manitoulin Island. I believe roads, services and a responsible tax rate are important to the ratepayers in Ward 4.” “With your support, I look forward to again representing Ward 4,” he concluded.
