‘Tremendous’ turnout

Dear Editor: 

More than 300 community-focused residents attended the Mapleton Chamber of Commerce’s Meet the Candidates event at the Drayton Festival Theatre on Wednesday evening, demonstrating strong interest in the future direction of the Township of Mapleton.

The Chamber is encouraged not only by the tremendous community turnout, but also by the number of candidates who have stepped forward to serve. 

Mapleton is fortunate to have so many individuals who care deeply about our municipality and are willing to put their names forward for public office.

Throughout the evening, candidates had the opportunity to introduce themselves and respond to numerous questions submitted by members of the community. 

Discussion covered a broad range of municipal priorities, including fiscal responsibility and township spending, water and wastewater costs, infrastructure, growth and housing, support for local business, community engagement, shared municipal services, transparency, accountability and municipal leadership.

The tone of the evening was equally encouraging. Candidates were respectful of one another and focused on their own ideas, priorities and vision for Mapleton. 

The result was an informative and positive evening that allowed residents to hear directly from those seeking to represent them.

The Mapleton Chamber of Commerce would like to thank Drayton Entertainment for its generous support of this important community event. 

We are also grateful to the student volunteers from Norwell District Secondary School, whose assistance with timing and event logistics helped keep a very full evening running smoothly.

With more than 300 people in attendance and so many thoughtful questions submitted by residents, the Chamber came away from the evening feeling incredibly encouraged.

We have an amazing community.

The participation we saw Wednesday night made it clear that Mapleton residents are engaged, interested and invested in the decisions that will shape our municipality over the next four years.

Electronic voting by internet or telephone began at 7am on Oct. 10 and remains open until 8pm on Oct. 26. 

The Chamber encourages every eligible voter to learn about the candidates, consider the issues and make their voice heard.

Exercise your right to vote.

The Chamber’s next event will provide an opportunity to continue the conversation following the election. 

The fourth annual Mayor’s Breakfast is set for Nov. 25 at 7:30 at the Maryborough Community Centre. 

The Mapleton Chamber is already working on what businesses and individuals want to hear from our newly elected council and municipal administration, as well as our Wellington County representative.

Watch the Mapleton Chamber of Commerce social media pages for event details and registration information. Registration will be required.

Mapleton Chamber of Commerce