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 Dan Janssen who is seeking election in Ward 2 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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Good day, Ward 2 Severn Township residents. My name is Dan Janssen and I have put myself forward to become your voice on municipal council.
A little more than two years ago, my family moved to the village of Coldwater from Barrie. We moved to this beautiful community to be closer to family and friends. We have fallen in love with this little village and plan to grow our roots here as we raise our daughter.
In Barrie, I was actively involved in various levels of politics. Running as a candidate in both the 2018 provincial and 2019 federal election allowed me to meet many people while learning about the concerns and issues we face as a community.
My interest in politics stems from my 20-year career working at Air Canada. By speaking up about safety issues in the workplace and ensuring follow through, I quickly discovered that I was able to create change in a positive way and help improve the lives of my co-workers. This experience inspired me to extend my reach, from being a voice for my co-workers at Canada’s largest workplace, to being a voice for my own community.
I currently serve my coworkers at Toronto Pearson International Airport as an elected full-time representative of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW). I have been active in the labour movement for more than a decade, fighting at both levels of government for higher minimum wages, improved labour standards and better protections for workers.
As your Ward 2 Councillor I will be your voice for the issues that matter most to you and our community.
Whoever it is you choose to vote for, I strongly encourage you to exercise your democratic right to vote.
In Severn, there will be multiple ways to participate.
Online: from Oct. 13, 2022 to Oct. 24, 2022.
In advance: at the township office, 1024 Hurlwood Lane, Severn, on Oct. 13, 2022 and Oct. 19, 2022.
In person: Oct. 24, 2022 at the Coldwater and District Community Centre at 11 Michael Anne Dr.
If you have any questions, and/or are interested in volunteering on the campaign, to donate or to request a lawn sign, please email me at [email protected].
