Candidates for the Town of Mahone Bay 2020 Municipal Election.
As a public service during this Covid election for the Mahone Bay Town Council, the Centre has offered each candidate an opportunity to post their information on the Centre's web page. The following are the responses received. The Mahone Bay Centre is non-partisan and does not endorse or support any candidate.
Alice Burdick
I am honoured to be running for town council in Mahone Bay, where I have lived since 2008. I am the proud mom of two wonderful children at Bayview Community School. I am a single mom; published author of poetry, essays, and a cookbook; entrepreneur with 5 years owning a successful small business; writing workshop leader and teacher; long-term community activist; and I have served on multiple arts juries and boards. All this has helped give me extensive experience in collaborative work, listening, and problem-solving. I have a wide range of lived experience to draw on, and am pragmatic, realistic and hopeful. I simply want to give back to the town that has been such a great place to live and raise children. We all want Mahone Bay to be a welcoming place, that values new ideas and people as much as it preserves its natural beauty and positive traditions. As a parent and citizen, I am interested in: helping to make town council more transparent to and communicative with constituents; housing affordability and long-term rentals; continuing to develop a town that is friendly and accessible to all ages and incomes; the preservation of green spaces and common lands as part of a healthy community; clear statements from the town about working against racism and all other forms of hate; increased recognition of the value contributed by creative workers to Mahone Bay's cultural identity; a practical and helpful understanding of the issues that face small local businesses; and building on measures to address climate change in our community, including following up on shoreline preservation. Even though I am passionate about many issues, I understand the value of community that includes all citizens as individuals, but is more than any one person, issue, or situation.
Contact me with any questions at aliceformbtowncouncil@gmail.com or 902-541-0135.
Contact me with any questions at aliceformbtowncouncil@gmail.com or 902-541-0135.
Penny Carver
I love this “little town that could …” with its renewed vigor and exciting initiatives. I’m proud to have been part of a Council dedicated to environmental protection and community engagement.
In a third Council term I’ll continue to advocate for transit solutions that link communities and for affordable housing options; to promote Age Friendly Community features for all ages; to support stewardship of heritage and “green” assets; and, to work with Council in planning for carbon reduction, shoreline protection, and for thoughtful growth.
Our greatest challenge is shoreline protection. Our greatest asset is our collective resolve for Mahone Bay to flourish. Council embodies that resolve.
As a two-term Councillor, I’m known for thorough preparation, forthright participation and excellent attendance at Council and committees. I’m especially proud of my contributions to the Town’s Heritage Advisory and Age Friendly Community committees which have stimulated increased heritage registrations and a new financial incentive to encourage heritage stewardship; initiated use of crosswalk flags; added benches in town with adoption of an ongoing bench installation program; and, painted curb cuts with bright yellow for pedestrian safety.
My external Council appointments have created beneficial networks and partnerships:
In a third Council term I’ll continue to advocate for transit solutions that link communities and for affordable housing options; to promote Age Friendly Community features for all ages; to support stewardship of heritage and “green” assets; and, to work with Council in planning for carbon reduction, shoreline protection, and for thoughtful growth.
Our greatest challenge is shoreline protection. Our greatest asset is our collective resolve for Mahone Bay to flourish. Council embodies that resolve.
As a two-term Councillor, I’m known for thorough preparation, forthright participation and excellent attendance at Council and committees. I’m especially proud of my contributions to the Town’s Heritage Advisory and Age Friendly Community committees which have stimulated increased heritage registrations and a new financial incentive to encourage heritage stewardship; initiated use of crosswalk flags; added benches in town with adoption of an ongoing bench installation program; and, painted curb cuts with bright yellow for pedestrian safety.
My external Council appointments have created beneficial networks and partnerships:
- Lunenburg County Seniors’ Safety Partnership Society (Chair)
- South Shore Housing Action Coalition (SSHAC)
- NOW Lunenburg County Physician Recruitment Group
- Inter-Municipal Governance Committee (Alternate)
- Lunenburg County Accessibility Advisory Committee (Alternate)
- Chamber of Commerce Liaison 2012-2016
- served on several non-profit boards:
- Past – Mahone Bay Centre / Second Story Women’s Centre / Bluenose Golf Club
- Current – Community Links / Aging Well Together (Provincial)
- helped steer “Talking Trees” and “Hello Neighbour” projects
- two daughters and five grandchildren in Halifax & Toronto
- lived in Lunenburg County for 25 years, in Mahone Bay 16 years
Aaron Collery
My name is Aaron Michael Collery, and I’m running for a seat on the Mahone Bay Town Council this October. My enthusiasm is amplified by the many true and kind friends I have made since moving here. I currently serve on both the Asset Management and Police Advisory Committees, and I’m a lifetime member of the Heritage Boatyard Co-op and helped build the shed at the Mahone Bay Civic Marina. I’m also a volunteer firefighter.
Father to three beautiful daughters, and husband to one beautiful and amazing wife, I’m proud to call Mahone Bay home. Though I spent many years on Canada’s west coast, the Maritimes have taken up permanent residence in my heart since the first time Ilona and I discovered the town during a cross-country motorcycle adventure.
I have lived in small towns most of my life, including communities on Vancouver Island. Because of this I understand some of the unique challenges facing Mahone Bay in order to develop the infrastructure to continue to attract families to settle in our beautiful town. I’ve seen firsthand in other towns what doesn’t work, and I don’t want to see that happen here. We need to preserve the beauty of the town and the ecosystem that surrounds it, respecting its rich history and architecture, all while maintaining our economic growth and prosperity.
Having worked in private security, commercial transportation, energy, utility and infrastructure construction, both as a business owner and an employee, I will use my past experience interacting with all three levels of government to assist the Town of Mahone Bay in making the important decisions that will influence us in the years ahead. My guiding principles are integrity, fairness and accountability. I am a good listener and believe that all questions deserve answers, especially when they affect our future.
Father to three beautiful daughters, and husband to one beautiful and amazing wife, I’m proud to call Mahone Bay home. Though I spent many years on Canada’s west coast, the Maritimes have taken up permanent residence in my heart since the first time Ilona and I discovered the town during a cross-country motorcycle adventure.
I have lived in small towns most of my life, including communities on Vancouver Island. Because of this I understand some of the unique challenges facing Mahone Bay in order to develop the infrastructure to continue to attract families to settle in our beautiful town. I’ve seen firsthand in other towns what doesn’t work, and I don’t want to see that happen here. We need to preserve the beauty of the town and the ecosystem that surrounds it, respecting its rich history and architecture, all while maintaining our economic growth and prosperity.
Having worked in private security, commercial transportation, energy, utility and infrastructure construction, both as a business owner and an employee, I will use my past experience interacting with all three levels of government to assist the Town of Mahone Bay in making the important decisions that will influence us in the years ahead. My guiding principles are integrity, fairness and accountability. I am a good listener and believe that all questions deserve answers, especially when they affect our future.
Joseph Feeney
Over the past four years, I have had the pleasure of representing citizens as a member of the Mahone Bay Town Council. I am confident that I have made a good contribution on behalf of Town residents, and I have a keen interest in serving a second term on Council. I am asking for your vote in the upcoming election.
I have lived in Mahone Bay since 1978, except for the four years I studied at Mount Allison University. My wife, Mary Ann (Saunders) and I made the decision to raise our two daughters here. Over the years I have commuted back and forth to Halifax for work.
I possess Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designations. I started my professional career with the Provincial Government’s Department of Economic Development, and for the past twenty years I have worked with Bell Aliant, holding positions in various senior financial management roles.
Previous community service includes membership on the board of the South Shore YMCA and active support for the Mahone Bay’s physician recruitment committee.
I currently serve as the Vice Chairman of the Property Valuation Services Corporation (PVSC), an independent, not-for-profit organization responsible for assessing all property in Nova Scotia.
As a counsellor in the next term l intend to:
I have lived in Mahone Bay since 1978, except for the four years I studied at Mount Allison University. My wife, Mary Ann (Saunders) and I made the decision to raise our two daughters here. Over the years I have commuted back and forth to Halifax for work.
I possess Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designations. I started my professional career with the Provincial Government’s Department of Economic Development, and for the past twenty years I have worked with Bell Aliant, holding positions in various senior financial management roles.
Previous community service includes membership on the board of the South Shore YMCA and active support for the Mahone Bay’s physician recruitment committee.
I currently serve as the Vice Chairman of the Property Valuation Services Corporation (PVSC), an independent, not-for-profit organization responsible for assessing all property in Nova Scotia.
As a counsellor in the next term l intend to:
- Provide steadfast support for the Shoreline Protection Zone by-law.
- Support the implementation of strategies that will expand the tax base through appropriate development as well as take advantage of opportunities to generate revenue for the Town outside of property tax.
- Promote the appropriation of funds for equipment and infrastructure required by the Mahone Bay Fire Department to maintain a strong community insurance rating, thereby supporting affordable property insurance for homeowners and businesses.
- Advocate to protect the Cenotaph in its current location where it has recognized the ultimate sacrifice of our Town’s citizens since 1923.
- Work on strategies and implementation plans for affordable housing options.
- Advocate for appropriate development and a balanced approach between residential and commercial interests.
- Ensure that the benefits of the Electrical Utility are maximized while maintaining the Mahone Bay “Power Advantage”. I support the introduction of an industrial power rate to drive large customer demand while providing lower residential electrical rates than adjacent NSPI areas.
- Provide oversight to ensure revenue from capital sources (AREA Dividend, Deed Transfer Tax, National Gas Tax, and Infrastructure Levy) will only be used for capital related initiatives and not used to fund ongoing operating expenses.
- Work with Council colleagues to develop a detailed plan to ensure that the Bay View and Park Cemeteries’ perpetual care funds are solvent and can support the ongoing maintenance of the cemeteries by 2032.
- Garner support to reduce the speed limit on Main Street to 40 km/h and 35 km/hr on Pleasant Street.
Francis Kangata
I love the Town of Mahone Bay and I am honored to offer my candidacy for Town Council. My wife and I moved to Mahone Bay ten years ago and have two precious daughters, aged 9 and 7, who were born here. To me, Mahone Bay feels genuine, warm, and welcoming, and I am proud to call it my home.
Having lived and worked in three different continents, I have built a rich and wholesome understanding of the strength of diversity in building community. As a health promoter with a mental health and addictions leaning, I understand the important role a community plays in the health and wellbeing of its residents. As such I have come to understand that welcoming, vibrant, and flourishing communities do not happen by accident. Local governments play a unique and critical role in making this a reality through leadership, policies, and investments. You need to have the right people at the table to make that happen.
Mahone Bay is one of the most beautiful towns in the country. However, I believe that Mahone Bay’s biggest asset, hands down, is its people. I think there is a huge opportunity to engage the many smart, generous, creative, and talented folks in Mahone Bay to become more involved in shaping their community. This goes far beyond voting every four years. As a councillor, I would support ways for council and for the town to meet people “where they are at” for genuine engagement and dialogue.
If elected, it is significant that I would be the first Black person to sit on Mahone Bay Council. This offers a unique opportunity to showcase to the province and world the welcoming nature of our town. Together I believe we can create some “positive noise” and continue to build a rich history that reflects the diversity and bright future of our town.
Having lived and worked in three different continents, I have built a rich and wholesome understanding of the strength of diversity in building community. As a health promoter with a mental health and addictions leaning, I understand the important role a community plays in the health and wellbeing of its residents. As such I have come to understand that welcoming, vibrant, and flourishing communities do not happen by accident. Local governments play a unique and critical role in making this a reality through leadership, policies, and investments. You need to have the right people at the table to make that happen.
Mahone Bay is one of the most beautiful towns in the country. However, I believe that Mahone Bay’s biggest asset, hands down, is its people. I think there is a huge opportunity to engage the many smart, generous, creative, and talented folks in Mahone Bay to become more involved in shaping their community. This goes far beyond voting every four years. As a councillor, I would support ways for council and for the town to meet people “where they are at” for genuine engagement and dialogue.
If elected, it is significant that I would be the first Black person to sit on Mahone Bay Council. This offers a unique opportunity to showcase to the province and world the welcoming nature of our town. Together I believe we can create some “positive noise” and continue to build a rich history that reflects the diversity and bright future of our town.
Richard Nowe
Richard Nowe has lived in Mahone Bay all of his life. Therefore he is very proud to call Mahone Bay his home and is very passionate about how it is very important to give back to the community. After obtaining his Bachelor of Arts And Bachelor of Education Degrees from St. Mary’s University Richard joined Canada Post where he retired after serving 31 years as Postmaster in Hubbards and Chester. Richard spends most of his time now volunteering having been a member of Mahone Bay and District Fire Department for over 47 years including 11 years as the Fire Chief. He is also on the Board of Directors for the Mahone Bay & Area Food Bank and is one of the members responsible for maintaining the supplies to ensure that the clients always have food. Also as a member of the Mahone Bay Area Lions Club where he served 3 terms as President the Swimming Pool and Tiny Tots playground are two of the projects which are close to his heart helping both anyway he can. He and his wife Cathie have 2 grown children and 2 grandchildren.
Richard is proud to have served on Town Council for the past 4 years. It has been a great experience having served on the following : Municipal Joint Services Board, the Police Advisory Board, the Regional Emergency Management Organization planning committee , the Audit Committee and the Asset Management Committee. He also completed Financial Management Training through AMANS. Prior to being on Council Richard had served as the Provincial Appointee on the Police Advisory Board.
In the past Richard was responsible for organizing and running the minor baseball program and also served as the team trainer for the minor hockey team from Lunenburg.
Although it no longer exists in Mahone Bay Richard was largely responsible for the very active St. Johns Ambulance Brigade which did first aid duties at many functions including the Big Ex in Bridgewater. He served as the Brigade Superintendent for this area. When the need arose for a Beaver and Cub leader he also volunteered for this. To show his pride in Mahone Bay he was an Auxilary member of the Mahone Bay police Force . It has been said that if you want something done ask Richard.
Contact information:
Phone 902-624-8723
Cell 902-275-8551
E mail richardnowe@hotmail.com
Richard is proud to have served on Town Council for the past 4 years. It has been a great experience having served on the following : Municipal Joint Services Board, the Police Advisory Board, the Regional Emergency Management Organization planning committee , the Audit Committee and the Asset Management Committee. He also completed Financial Management Training through AMANS. Prior to being on Council Richard had served as the Provincial Appointee on the Police Advisory Board.
In the past Richard was responsible for organizing and running the minor baseball program and also served as the team trainer for the minor hockey team from Lunenburg.
Although it no longer exists in Mahone Bay Richard was largely responsible for the very active St. Johns Ambulance Brigade which did first aid duties at many functions including the Big Ex in Bridgewater. He served as the Brigade Superintendent for this area. When the need arose for a Beaver and Cub leader he also volunteered for this. To show his pride in Mahone Bay he was an Auxilary member of the Mahone Bay police Force . It has been said that if you want something done ask Richard.
Contact information:
Phone 902-624-8723
Cell 902-275-8551
E mail richardnowe@hotmail.com
Kelly Wilson
My name is Kelly Wilson and I am running for council in Mahone Bay. I a running because I believe council can and must do a better job of serving the needs of the community. Council needs to refocus on the basics of infrastructure (protect our shoreline and highway 3), support for tourism and our business community, and cost control (yearly increases in taxes is an inappropriate and unsustainable approach to funding).
I have lived in Mahone Bay for more than twenty years and during that time I have consulted in the food and beverage industry internationally, run a small business, volunteered for festivals, and other organizations including VON and literacy NS. Currently I sit on the boards of the Mahone Bay Centre and Coastal Action (chair). I believe our greatest asset is the natural beauty of the region, our temperate climate and our welcoming citizenry. As a result we are an attractive tourist destination as well as a much loved home for people, young and not so young seeking to grow and prosper in a non-urban environment. We need to protect and enhance these assets in order to continue to be the destination of choice for these groups.
My key message is this. We live in a beautiful place. Maintaining and enhancing our lifestyle for people at different stages of their lives and with different economic resources will be an ongoing challenge. It will require great care in managing our resources and a willingness to look at new opportunities in cooperation with our regional municipal partners in government at all levels. In order to make that possible Mahone Bay's council needs to set a tone and create a model of creativity and cooperation.
Kelly Wilson
kelly.blake.wilson@gmail.com
902-523-4282
I have lived in Mahone Bay for more than twenty years and during that time I have consulted in the food and beverage industry internationally, run a small business, volunteered for festivals, and other organizations including VON and literacy NS. Currently I sit on the boards of the Mahone Bay Centre and Coastal Action (chair). I believe our greatest asset is the natural beauty of the region, our temperate climate and our welcoming citizenry. As a result we are an attractive tourist destination as well as a much loved home for people, young and not so young seeking to grow and prosper in a non-urban environment. We need to protect and enhance these assets in order to continue to be the destination of choice for these groups.
My key message is this. We live in a beautiful place. Maintaining and enhancing our lifestyle for people at different stages of their lives and with different economic resources will be an ongoing challenge. It will require great care in managing our resources and a willingness to look at new opportunities in cooperation with our regional municipal partners in government at all levels. In order to make that possible Mahone Bay's council needs to set a tone and create a model of creativity and cooperation.
Kelly Wilson
kelly.blake.wilson@gmail.com
902-523-4282