Virginia Hackson, East Gwillimbury mayoral candidate

Yorkregion.com
September 19, 2018

Seeking re-election to the position of mayor

Personal motto:

I believe in the value of leadership, power of positive attitude, dignity of the human spirit, importance of integrity, and strength of community.

I conduct myself with honour and courage, speak my truth honestly, and embrace diversity with tolerance and understanding.

The principles that guide my actions are:

• Be the best person you can be, and
• Make the world a better place

Education:

• Bachelor of arts and bachelor of education, University of Waterloo
• Masters certificate in public administration, York University

Experience:

• Mayor, Town of East Gwillimbury, 2010 to present
• Councillor, Town of East Gwillimbury, 2001-2010
• Public school board trustee, 1993-2001
• 30 years, parks and recreation, Town of Newmarket
• Representative on York Region council.
• Chair, York Region Police Services board
• Chair, York Region audit committee
• Board member: Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority, Cedar Centre, Royal Oak Court Senior Housing (Mount Albert), Housing York, York Region seniors task force and broadband strategy task force

Accomplishments:

I am very proud of my leadership and what has been achieved during my time as mayor in this last term:

• EG is a debt-free municipality.
• Effectively managed growth
• Highest reserves in the history of EG, at $47 million
• Live streaming of council meetings begins January 2019.
• Ward system in place for 2018 election
• 24-7 emergency services implemented

 

• Welcomed DUCA to Mount Albert
• Approval of the Health & Active Living Plaza
• Increased communications with residents through public meetings, open houses, surveys, One on One sessions

Priorities:

I will continue my proven leadership by:

• Continuing to manage and plan our economic growth --maintaining low taxes while continuing to deliver quality services
• Working with Southlake Regional Health Centre to ensure the needs of our community can be met
• Seeking opportunities and continuing the dialogue for senior housing in EG
• Respecting our rich culture and heritage
• Respecting the needs of our existing residents while welcoming our new residents

Ensuring we maintain our small-town feel as we continue to grow