BLACK RIVER-MATHESON- Farmer Chris Riach hopes to plant seeds of unity and cultivate a stronger community.
He is one of seven candidates vying to be Matheson's next mayor in the Aug. 12 byelection.
His main priorities are to bring the community back together and offer transparency, referencing back to last year’s 34 per cent tax hike.
“Moving forward the township needs to prioritize economic development and retention and housing to help reduce the tax burden, as well as supporting the needs of young families and elderly,” he said.
Riach, who grew up on his family’s farm in southwestern Ontario, has lived in Black River-Matheson for the last seven years where he operates Bear Path Farms.
“I also sit on several boards as director, vice chair or president as part of my contribution to my community to help improve and make things better. Which is why I believe that I am well suited to lead the newly elected council and represent all the people of Black River-Matheson.”
Riach said he threw his hat into the ring to give people more options. His wife, Kyla, who he met in high school, was previously on council.
“I didn't like how things went down. I didn't necessarily agree with it. And I thought, I can make a difference. My wife was previously on council, so I have some good knowledge as to what is expected and what needs to be done,” he said.
Riach believes people should vote for him because he’s easy to get along with.
“People can count on when they call, I'm going to answer the phone and I will answer their questions, and I will stay in the position until the position is done,” he said.
Advance voting for the byelection is Aug. 1-11, with election day on Aug. 12.
SEE: Are you on the Matheson voters' list?
RELATED: Here's the official list of who's running for Matheson's byelection
Seven council members will be elected — one councillor in each of the six wards, and the mayor, who is elected at large.
The byelection is required because the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing’s declared all of the Matheson council seats vacant after council failed to meet quorum at meetings for 60 days. The little-used section of the Municipal Act hasn't been exercised since it took effect in the early 2000s.
Connect with Riach by calling 705-288-2242 or emailing [email protected].
The other Black River-Matheson mayoral candidates are Dave Dyment, Paul Fortin, Murray Horan, John MacKenzie, Linda Mercier and Albert Royer.
