Word on the Doorstep- Week 2

Why are you running?

Week 2 was spent in some much cooler evenings, thank goodness. I spent my time on the west side of the valley, and the south western quarter of the ward. Some highlights were Salmon Point Rd, Fennel Cres and Welbanks Rd. 

The big question of the week was Why are you running? I was asking myself that. Mostly trying to put into words something I felt I naturally fell into. With my education background in politics I’ve been asked before if I want to be a politician. The answer was always “No”. I felt my place was behind the scenes researching, advising or working in non profit. When I saw the seat was open, I did some research and started considering that this position could utilise the skills I had to make a difference here. I see potential in the County to build a better tomorrow. We are such a unique municipality, blessed with agriculture, small local business, and a strong sense of community. I think these things are great pillars for our future. I also felt a sense of wanting to protect this uniqueness in the face of overwhelming "sameness" that the world seems to be falling toward. I do believe the future is moving towards this uniqueness the County has, I want to hold on to this so we can be an example for the future without compromising on what matters. I wanted to be a different kind of politician, really connect with residents and have discussions. In talking with residents I feel I am echoing their sentiments, which makes me confident in my ability to represent Athol well. I want to continue to connect with my community when making decisions, if elected.

Long story short. The County is home, and I want to protect everything that makes it unique. I feel I am well suited to do so and that my priorities are well aligned with the people in my community.

Other topics were brought up this week starting with concerns about event venues and the lack of enforcements of noise by-law and complaints about local venues operating outside of zoning while applying for proper zoning. I heard these concerns. I feel that residents and myself both felt that these venues have a place in our community and that they employ residents and/or bring in income for local owners. However, the by-laws need to be respected and enforced. As well that they must be properly zoned.

Next, was Picton Terminals, which at the time I was asked I felt unprepared to answer. Luckily I was able to collect the residents email and do some research to have a better response. After some research I felt between a rock and a hard place so to speak. The easy answer was that the illegal quarrying was wrong and needed to be rectified. Operating illegally meant that the regulations for the environment and neighbouring properties were avoided, which was plain and simple- it was wrong. When it gets tricky is the MZO that the current council approved. The information that is available to me, makes me believe that walking back the MZO leaves us open to legal action. As well, the MZO is a compromise of having a small say in its operations, something that could be lost in a legal battle. What's done has been done, we can just do our best to move forward. When it comes to the environmental impacts that complicates things as well. I wish we could always protect the environment and have effective developments for economic development. That will not always be the case, we can always try and do better with protecting our environment, but we cannot always be perfect. The project is said to bring jobs and benefits for our agriculture industry, which is an extreme positive. I am always ready to hear new information and perspectives, so if you believe I have missed something feel free to reach out!

Pickleball was a hot topic of this week as well. Another hard one to put my finger on. I believe that the Catholic Cemetery needs to be consulted on how to be respectful of noise during services and ceremonies. I also really understand the perspectives of those who want to preserve nature in Delhi Park. I am hoping that there might be a compromise, a potential alternative location to help increase access to recreation across the County. Overall, I am looking forward to hearing more perspectives from residents and seeing what solution we can come to. 

Stay tuned for the next edition where I tackle the topic of Water and Wastewater and other topics which came up at nearly every corner of the ward. You can read all my past newsletters on my website- emilyjanepickstock.ca

Speak Soon,

Emily Jane Pickstock

2026 Candidate for Athol Councillor