Candidate for mayor
EDITOR’S NOTE: Incumbent Northeast Town Mayor Al MacNevin has been acclaimed for another term.
Candidates for council
Ward 1
Laurie Cook
Laurie Cook is running for Ward 1 councillor in the upcoming Northeast Town elections. She has lived on Manitoulin for the past 10 years, but calls her third generation Bay of Islands cottage home. “I’ve been out here (the Bay of Islands) my whole life,” said Ms. Cook. “I’m on the board of directors for the Bay of Islands Community Association and no one was running against the incumbent so I thought it was time I give back and run—choices are good for democracy.” Ms. Cook has been part of various volunteer organizations over the years including the Manitoulin Nature Club, Grass Roots Garden Club and Little Current UCW (United Church Women). “I am a real believer in old time values,” Ms. Cook said, noting her strongest character features are that she is well organized and a hard worker. “I believe in being prudent and responsible. I have a lot of energy and I think I would bring a fresh voice and ideas to council.” Sitting on the Bay of Islands Community Association, Ms. Cook explained that she has a good grasp of the issues of Ward 1—taxes, fire safety and security. “It’s important for council to work with Ward 1 residents to find solutions to these problems,” said Ms. Cook. “I am the winter coordinator for Cottage Watch—which is very effective. Garbage is also a real problem that council needs to look at. There is a need for garbage services (in Ward 1).” “People have also recently purchased pumps (for firefighting), but we need fire training, which is something I will push for,” continued Ms. Cook. “Taxes are something I am concerned with as well,” said Ms. Cook. “I don’t want to see onerous taxes make people lose their family camps. I think that prudent and efficient use of taxpayers’ dollars is important. I also believe in working with other wards—I understand the different interests and we need to work together.” “I’m excited about what’s happening on Manitoulin and our growth,” concluded Ms. Cook. “There is a lot going on and I would like to help market and promote our great area.”
