Photo submitted by Jennifer Miller. Taken by CatWood Photography (https://www.facebook.com/cathywoodphotography)
Jennifer Miller is heading back to Smiths Falls Town Hall for another four years, and she’s doing it with a strong show of support from local voters.
The incumbent councillor received 2,008 votes in Monday’s municipal election, finishing first among 15 candidates competing for six council seats.
Miller finished just 11 votes ahead of newcomer Bill Dickson, who received 1,997.
Speaking with LanarkLeedsToday.ca following her victory, Miller said the result was both exciting and humbling.
Miller believes the results show residents are pleased with the direction the town has been heading.
During the campaign, she heard positive feedback about improvements downtown, investments in parks, the new water tower and pedestrian bridge.
She sees the results as encouragement to continue that work.
But Miller also heard concerns about affordability and the economic uncertainty facing residents.
She says those concerns cannot be ignored as the new council begins making decisions about spending and future projects.
Miller will be part of a council featuring three returning councillors and three newcomers, alongside mayor-elect Chris Cummings.
She welcomes that combination of experience and fresh perspectives.
Miller says each member brings different strengths to the table, including backgrounds in finance, communications and municipal government.
She’s particularly looking forward to seeing how the new group works together when it begins setting priorities for the next four years.
And that process will begin early in the new year.
Miller says the planning session will give every councillor an opportunity to bring forward ideas before the group works toward common goals.
For now, she’s grateful for the confidence voters have placed in her and eager to continue serving the community.
With a new mayor, fresh voices around the council table and some familiar faces returning, Miller believes there’s an opportunity to build on the town’s progress while keeping a close eye on what residents can afford.
