Question: If the county was awarded $10 million to spend, as mayor, how would you propose using it?
Six out of seven candidates running for mayor in Norfolk County have responded to a set of questions from the . Candidate Ken Gilpin chose not to take part in this Q& A. SUBMITTED PHOTOS
Name: Doug Brunton
Occupation: Retired director of public works for the Town of Simcoe
Political experience: Two-term councillor for Norfolk County
Residence: Simcoe
Answer: If I had $10 million to use as mayor, the most sensible option would be to reduce our debt. There are other possibilities, but that’s my main thought.
Name: David Finch
Age: 69
Occupation: Registered psychotherapist (qualifying)
Political experience: Three terms as an Alderman on Grimsby Town Council from 2000-2006 and 2010-2014; appointed member of Grimsby Planning and Development Committee from 2014-2018
Answer: I think we should invest that money into an infrastructure project that would normally require borrowing. Avoiding debt when possible is crucial because it helps keep servicing costs down.
Name: Noel Haydt
Age: 58
Occupation: Real estate investor/property manager
Political Experience: Former Norfolk County councillor; former chair of the Long Point Region Conservation Authority
Residence: Walsingham
Answer: My first question would be whether we need to spend it right away.
A $10-million grant shouldn’t lead to new spending of that same amount. I’d first assess our current capital priorities and see where this funding could help avoid future debt or leverage additional government support or prevent higher costs later on.
If this funding can go towards a priority project, I’d like it used to advance a new aquatic centre while minimizing what local taxpayers ultimately have to finance.
Name: Ken Hewitt
Age: 59
Occupation: Benefits consultant
Political experience: Mayor of Haldimand County for 12 years
Residence: Turkey Point
Answer: Before deciding how to use $10 million, I’d check if there are any restrictions on the funds and review our existing infrastructure needs and commitments.
If there are no restrictions, I’d present a prioritized list of projects focusing on essential infrastructure such as roads, bridges, water and wastewater systems, and outdated community facilities.
I’d look at how these funds might attract more provincial or federal financing while providing long-term benefits for residents. A one-time investment shouldn’t create ongoing expenses that taxpayers will have to cover each year. Every spending proposal should have a solid business case with realistic cost estimates and clear benefits.
The final decision would come from council based on community needs, affordability, and current infrastructure responsibilities.
Name: Keith Milner
Age: 71
Occupation: Retired RCMP/CSIS officer and owner of Bronte Shore Yacht Sales currently
Political experience includes five years with Canada’s intelligence services focusing on counter subversion, counter terrorism, and counter espionage.
Residence is in Port Dover
Answer : If Norfolk County received $10 million today , I would suggest using it wisely towards paying down debts related to water and wastewater. First , I’d ask council members for their thoughts , but I’d really push for reducing debt which could lessen those heavy water rate hikes.
Name : Adam Veri
Age : 45
Occupation : Ward 6 councillor
Political experience includes four years as Ward 6 councillor , including six months serving as deputy mayor ; also involved with OPP Detachment board , chairing Norfolk County Public Library Board , being part of Simcoe BIA board , Economic Development Advisory Committee member , Committee of Adjustment member.
Residence is Port Dover p >
Answer : Either paying off debt or moving forward with capital projects quickly so we can beat inflation – whatever gives taxpayers better financial relief over time.
I know this sounds dull , but closing our $33 million capital deficit faster means council can either cut taxes back down due to inflation or start investing in new services or facilities residents want. p >
Coming Saturday : Homelessness rates have been rising in Norfolk in recent years. What would you propose to address this situation ? p >
Editor ’s note : Candidate Ken Gilpin decided not to participate. Some responses were shortened for clarity. p >
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