Former Perth mayor John Fenik says his run for council in Rideau Lakes is about experience, respect and helping the township move forward.
Fenik is seeking a councilor seat in Ward 4, North Crosby-Newboro after a lengthy career in Perth.
Fenik says he and his wife, Laurie, have a strong personal connection to Rideau Lakes. They own a small cabin on the Upper Rideau near Foxtail. He also got to know the township while owning the Review-Mirror newspaper, delivering papers through its hamlets, villages and back roads.
He says that time helped him fall in love with the area and the people who live there.
Fenik says Rideau Lakes is full of possibility, but he believes council needs to work through conflict and focus on respectful debate.
Fenik says one priority would be improving how council works around the table.
He says the procedural bylaw needs attention and long-running issues, including the future of the municipal Chantry office, must be settled.
He is also proposing a main street program for hamlets and villages across Rideau Lakes. The idea would help businesses upgrade facades and facilities while drawing more people to the township year-round, not only during cottage and camping season.
Fenik says he also wants to look at environmental issues on local lakes, including boat pressure and possible incentives for electric outboard motors.
Reaction to his campaign has been positive. Fenik says he received emails from Rideau Lakes residents and messages from Perth residents after news of his candidacy broke.
Fenik says he plans to campaign with that “good energy,” adding that if others go low, he will go high.
You can listen to our complete interview with John Fenik below.
