Matusinec, McCabe discuss growth, role of councillors

Wellington North Ward 4 council candidates John Matusinec and Steve McCabe both say growth in the township hinges on a new wastewater treatment plant in Arthur.

“Sewage capacity in Arthur is crippling development,” Matusinec said in his Oct. 23 introduction to over 200 people at the Arthur arena.

“We need a solution to this problem now, not in three to five years.”

He also pledged he will “stand against inexperienced decisions which lead to exorbitant legal and consulting fees.”

McCabe said when he went to high school in Arthur the population was about 1,800 and 23 years later the village has only grown by 650 people.

“We are posed for growth,” he said, noting the plant will accommodate both short- and long-term growth.

School zones

One resident asked why school zones in Arthur are not labelled as such with reduced speed limits.

Both McCabe and Matusinec seemed to be unaware the school zones were not established - and both pledged to look into it of elected.

‘Job description’

When asked for a basic job description of a township councillor, Matusinec described the role as “the people’s tool,” while McCabe had a similar answer.

“I believe you are the voice for the people,” he said. “The people that put you into power are the people that you have to answer to.”