Municipal elections are October 26 in Ontario. To help voters make an informed decision here in Cornwall, the editorial board of The Seeker has put together 10 questions for candidates seeking a seat at the municipal council table, whether as Councillor or as Mayor. To ensure fairness, the same questions were sent to every candidate. We sent a total of 10 and they had the option to answer all of them, or pick a minimum of 5. Their answers will be published in their entirety, in the order they are received. We will not edit, correct or modify any responses.
These are Joanne Parker’s Answers. She is running for councillor.
1-Who are you? Where are you from? What education do you have? What relevant experience do you have? (1 brief paragraph)
My name is Joanne Parker and I grew up in this wonderful town. My family lived here for generations, going back to the t. Lawrence Seaway Project. They moved from Moulinette to Long Sault to Cornwall when the area was flooded for the dam. I graduated from St. Joes and attended St. Lawrence College’s accounting program. I have worked for a local construction company for the past 16 years processing payroll and accounts receivable and payables. With my accounting background, I have experience with interpreting financial information and making informed decisions for organizational success. I am a mother of three amazing children who are very supportive of me. I volunteer for the local soccer Club in the summers, play darts and softball and you may also recognize me running the city streets. I’ve completed 3 Marathons and over 10 half marathons.
2-In The Seeker’s poll asking constituents about the most important issue facing them, a large majority of respondents answered “taxes/affordability”. What would you do as a Councillor/Mayor to make Cornwall more affordable, and what city services or spending, if any, would you be willing to reduce, change or eliminate to keep tax increases under control?
In order to make Cornwall more affordable, I believe we have to look within to start. We need to analyze positions and if there is any redundancy. Amalgamating positions that are similar could help with keeping tax increases under control. There is always room for improvement.
3-Over the past few years, many constituents have expressed concern that the city’s homelessness situation has significantly worsened. What would you do as a Councillor/Mayor to address this issue?
I understand, as most of you do, that it takes more than just one action or a single plan to solve this problem. It requires steps in many different directions. Starting with strong partnerships in the community is something I will work for to help as many people as possible get the assistance they need to get back on their feet. Additional affordable and transitional housing, a homeless shelter and mental health support are where we can begin.
4-Why are you running for Council? What is the most important issue facing the City of Cornwall today?
I’ve thought about running for City Council for a while, years really but my schedule hasn’t allowed it until now. My kids are older and self-sufficient, so now I have the time and ambition to help make Cornwall great. I’ve experienced the closure of Domtar and Courtalds, and the effects of it on our city and how Cornwall pulled together when so many people were out of work. Cornwall has a bright future, and I’d like to help be part of that process and I am confident that I can make a positive impact if given the opportunity. One person cannot change the world, but one person can surely get the ball rolling. While there are a few important issues facing Cornwall, I believe the most important is affordability. Most of the Country is facing this same issue. Many are struggling to afford the basic necessities. We need to implement more support services and educate the public on what is available for those who are struggling, because a lot do not know.
5-Many constituents have expressed concerns about accountability and controversy surrounding Council. What could you do as a Councillor/Mayor to improve transparency and accountability?
Accountability begins with clarity. Each and every person on Council needs to have their roles and responsibilities clearly defined. We need to encourage a mindset focused on solutions rather than blame, to learn from mistakes and move forward. Council members represent leaders in the community, and we need to work together to celebrate success. Regular feedback with proper training and guidance can aid in Council members feeling supported, in turn feeling more confident and taking responsibility.
6-We constantly hear about the Art Centre and the water meters. Many residents have expressed the view that these were bad decisions on Council’s part. Both projects are being implemented, but they remain a sore spot for some voters. Would you consider revisiting or changing decisions made on those projects?
Revisiting projects can sometimes have different outcomes. I would consider revisiting, but also would look at the money that has already been spent. Is it beneficial to change these decisions, or would we be wasting more money in the long run?
7-What would you do to improve our relationship with Akwesasne? What does Truth and Reconciliation look like to you? Explain how Cornwall can take steps toward it.
I believe our relationship with Akwesasne is a good one but there is always room for improvement. The Communities need to come together and share their thoughts on current events. When they come together, they can strengthen their bond and come up with solutions that represent both areas, getting a better understanding of the different cultures and unique identities. Truth and Reconciliation is about coming to terms with events of the past in a manner that overcomes conflict and establishes a respectful and healthy relationship among people, going forward.
10-Many residents are concerned about crime, vandalism, drug use and a general decline in their sense of safety. What can the city realistically do to address these concerns, and where should municipal responsibility end and provincial or federal responsibility begin
I’d like to see more policing in the problem areas, whether on foot or by vehicle, I think either would be beneficial. We could also look at different forms of transportation, for example bikes to have police more readily accessible.
Many residents like the idea of a Neighbourhood watch program, where people can look out for one another.
I would also like to see more bylaw officers in the area, providing tickets/fines to unkept properties. What is good for one should be good for all. Following up on complaints should also be prioritized.
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