Editor's note: OrilliaMatters has asked council candidates in neighbouring Oro-Medonte, Ramara and Severn townships to provide a synopsis of why they are running in the Oct. 24 municipal election. The following was submitted by Judith Cox, who is seeking to become deputy mayor of Severn Township. For more election coverage — including candidate profiles and other election news — visit our 2022 municipal election page by clicking here.
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With over 20 years of experience on Severn Township council, including 18 years as Deputy Mayor and as your representative at Simcoe County, I have the vast municipal experience needed to work for all residents of the township.
Through my years in public service, I have learned the most important thing I’ve done is listen to residents, really listen. By doing this, I learn about their needs and concerns – and then I am able to find solutions that will improve their lives.
The solutions I’ve helped move forward have been innovative and managed in a positive way. I always read reports thoroughly, research issues diligently and then move forward by collaborating with staff and all of council, respecting different points of view but always working on behalf of Severn residents who have such a big stake in our growth, our rural environment, and our wonderful villages and hamlets.
Volunteering has always been very important to me. My volunteer work with dozens of events has been an excellent way for me to get to know every corner of the township and to give back to so many worthy local groups, events and non-profit businesses who rely on volunteers from the community.
Key issues and priorities Severn residents have talked to me about:
- Budgeting – be fiscally responsible and mindful of the impact to taxpayers considering the rate of inflation and increased service demands.
- Community safety and speeding issues
- Continue to work to bring high speed internet access across our Severn
- Investigating funding/partnership opportunities for Westshore community facility
- Establish community groups to plan for neighbourhood events to promote community cohesiveness and pride
- Listen to and support residents regarding the Orillia boundary expansion
- Protection of our wetlands, watersheds, and farmland
- Retain our rural character and promote Shop Local
- Support new recreational infrastructure/programs to encourage healthy lifestyles for all ages
As your Deputy Mayor, it would be my honour to represent you on these issues and others brought to my attention. I will use what I believe, and am proud to say, are the strengths I’ve developed over the years. I am honest and transparent; experienced and dedicated; focused and decisive; open-minded and diligent.
I promise to give all Severn residents equal respect and to represent the needs of the entire beautiful Township of Severn!
I welcome questions or comments from Severn voters. Call: 705-305-1086. Email:
