TimminsToday asked each of the candidates to submit a bio to introduce themselves to the voters. Here's Ward 4 (Porcupine) candidate Jessica Trudel's:
Jessica Trudel was born in Timmins and has lived here the majority of her life. She graduated with a diploma in business from Northern College, and has since obtained a Bachelor of Arts. She lives in Connaught with her husband and four children, who all attend schools in the east end.
Jessica runs two businesses: one as a real estate sales representative, and another as a freelance writer. She writes human interest stories for TimminsToday.com, and digital and print content for other local clientele.
Jessica first ran for city council in 2014. Though she was not elected, she learned a lot about community needs, about City Hall, and about the election process. To her knowledge, Jessica is the only newcomer candidate from 2014 to run again in 2018, a testament to her commitment and perseverance.
Jessica’s platform includes:
· Addressing the housing crisis and eliminating homelessness
· Cutting back on City regulations that unnecessarily restrict businesses and homeowners
· Attracting new businesses and non-profit organizations to fill gaps in the community
· Restoring Porcupine Lake and Bob’s Lake
· Controlling City spending through a focus on essential services
· Improving City communications with residents and visitors
· Fostering community development and beautification by supporting local non-profit and ad hoc groups
· Finding new revenue sources
Jessica has shown over the years (not just during this election) a genuine interest in gathering community feedback before making decisions. Though she knows she will never be able to make everyone happy, Jessica plans on having an open-door policy as a city councillor, and commits to truly listening to – and striving to understand – everyone’s unique perspectives and ideas.
The other Ward 4 candidates are:
Pat Bamford, John Curley, and David Shale
Meet the mayoral candidates here.