"It’s with mixed emotions that I’ve come to the decision that I will not be running again this year. Some may be disappointed, others not so much, such is the life in politics.

I’d like you to consider what I set out to do when I ran for your Ward 4 councillor for the 18 month term. I listed my Priorities as follows (from my flyer):

• Oppose the MZO

• Demand responsible development

• Protect your rural way of life

• Lead with integrity

• Demand transparency in council

• Ensure democratic process

• Represent YOU the taxpayer

I believe I lived up to my promises. I brought the MZO back to table, which council previously supported, with a motion to rescind support of the MZO. Unfortunately it was defeated by council 4-3.

I supported referendum that you would have saw on the ballot in October, to let you have the say in the most democratic way possible whether or not you wanted a city of 40,000 in Nanticoke. This motion met the same fate.

I exposed the motivations for the curious attacks on our MPP by shinning a light on the Haldimand Norfolk PC Riding Association’s affiliation with a member of council and their associates.

I opposed the irresponsible developments in Caledonia (McClung Rd, York, Hagersville and Lakeshore).

I advocated to make traffic improvements in Hagersville and the Hagersville Bypass study has been dug from the closet and is now part of our ongoing traffic management strategy. You will be seeing other improvements downtown this summer to alleviate some of the problems. More is in the works on this and will be addressed at the next council meeting.

I endeavoured to be the voice of my constituents in council, to hold up the democratic process. I sincerely believe that this county belongs to the people and important decisions should reflect their will, not individual desires or the profit hungry developers.

At the onset of running, I advised that I wasn’t here to be a career politician, but that I saw a gap in transparency that I felt compelled to expose and to support Mayor Bentley who seemed to be going it alone for you, selflessly and dedicated to the betterment of Haldimand residents.

I hope I’ve served you well and addressed your individual and global concerns.

As I step aside, I would like to give my support to Anna Mroz, whom I’ve come to know and trust over the last year. I find that her principles align with my own and that if the majority in Haldimand. She is outspoken yet tactful, bright and genuinely has your best interest at heart. She is a ‘for the people’ candidate. In fact, during the by-election, Anna had aspirations of running but graciously stepped aside to ensure a strong victory for Ward 4. I will now return this courtesy. Anna’s not afraid to speak her mind and stand up for you. One great attribute that she brings, is her experience in municipal operations which is invaluable. The learning curve of the process is steep and she’ll be able to hit the ground running for you.

I don’t give endorsements lightly. I ask that you get out and vote and make your voices clear. But don’t stop there. It can be a lonely world as a councillor, especially when you’re the one going against the grain and standing up for the people. Keep up your support throughout her tenure and let her know you have her back.

You’re close to having a council that will represent your wishes. And seeing the change you clearly demanded during the by-election. Vote Anna Mroz for Ward 4!"