Emily Jane Campaign Newsletter #1

What is your favourite part of the County?

During elections we often find ourselves focusing on what needs to be better, dialling in on the negatives. Yet, if living here was simply just negative you would not have such an engaged population. Things that are positive can often get forgotten and become overlooked in the pursuit of improvement. 

So, during a visit to Prince Edward Learning Centre, I wanted to take some time to focus on the positive. I opened the floor to discussion with a question; What is your favourite part of the County? It is not surprising to hear that everyone around the table described parts of their community. One youth described being safe and accepted at businesses and in the community in Picton which allows them to be confident on their own. 

The discussion that took place following this was revitalizing and motivating. I was asked a few extremely meaningful questions. One of them comes from a struggling family. The question was prefaced with a meaningful context of a really gut wrenching financial situation. I was asked; What will you do to help my life? I took some time to explain how I have seen families in this kind of struggle everyday working in education. I know this struggle exists and is not a one off. In fact it is more common than many people recognise, and can often be overlooked by those in charge. Having councillors that see and feel the struggles of those in the community is so important. I assured that what I can do if elected is to be an advocate at the table. One councillor is one vote, but this doesn’t mean my efforts stop at a vote. Additionally, being aware and compassionate about the stressed economic situations of those in our community means that I am able to see where motions can have an unintended impact on vulnerable populations.

The conversation took a dive into the vital neighbourhood hub of PELC and interconnected community resources. The value these resources add to our community is unmeasurable. Accessing resources and combing through all the complex jargon creates barriers to resources meant to alleviate the strain. Having trusted community members helps uplift residents and can have far reaching ripple effects. 

Community is important because it creates a strong economy, strong industry, strong policy and strong government. Community is the heart of the County. It is why people live here, move here, and travel here. It is a great strength that can be vital in our future through such uncertain times. As a councillor I want to make sure we don’t lose our identity in the pursuit of our future.

More to come, but for now I am back to the doors.

Au Revoir,

Emily Jane Pickstock

2026 Candidate for Athol Councillor