There was no yelling or finger pointing, it was just five candidates talking about how they will continue to make Bancroft great.
Mayor Paul Jenkins and Councillor Mary Kavanagh, the candidates for Mayor, were joined on stage by Bill Wellwood, George Eastman and Valerie Miles, the candidates in Ward 2.
Each candidate was given four minutes to introduce themselves to the crowd of around 100 people at the Bancroft Pentecostal Tabernacle. They each took their turn outlining their vision of how they will shape Bancroft during their four year term. Jenkins focused on the community saying he’d like to make it easier for residents to be a part of committee and council discussions. Kavanagh spoke about her desire to work on improving seniors housing in the area. “Bancroft is the perfect place for seniors housing,” she said.
One of the prepared questions the candidates for Mayor were asked was about the town’s debt. The twist to the question was if the town would be out of debt by the time their four year term is done. Both candidates agreed the the answer to that is no. They didn’t agree on how much debt the town is in, though. Jenkins says it’s $5.9 million, while Kavanagh says it’s $6.3 million, but says the town can pay it down to $2.3 million in 10 year. Jenkins thinks the current debt will drop to $3.9 million in four years. “We are on a disciplined schedule to reduce the debt on an on-going basis,” he said. Kavanagh mentioned how some people don’t realize there are two budgets: an operating budget and a water and wastewater budget. Both candidates mentioned that water and wastewater accounts for a large portion of the town’s debt.
When the audience got the chance to ask questions, they focused on how the candidates will work on affordable housing. Jenkins and Kavanagh agreed that affordable housing is needed in Bancroft. Jenkins mentioned the work being done by M.P. Mike Bossio. He said that while he’s looking for partners to put up affordable housing, they’re having a tough time finding them. Kavanagh went on to say in regards to tiny homes that while they are a good option, many of them aren’t permanently in one place. She also mentioned how at the beginning of current council’s term four years ago, they passed a motion that allows second units in houses.
After the meeting finished, the candidates took the time to talk with the attendees one-on-one and answer questions that they may not have gotten the chance to ask.
The full video of the candidates meeting is available on the Bancroft & District Chamber of of Commerce Facebook page.