Readers have differing views on need for by-election to choose next mayor of Kincardine

To the Editor:
RE: “Group pushes for by-election to choose next mayor of Kincardine”

In response to “Group pushes for by-election to choose next mayor of Kincardine,” April 14, 2021, I would like to point out that while acting mayor Randy Roppel was, indeed, appointed due to unforeseeable circumstances, his appointment completely complies with the Ontario Municipal Board Act.

In a matter of 15 months’ time, a municipal election is scheduled to take place. Pushing for a by-election in the meantime is an utter waste of time, resources and taxpayers’ dollars.

Particularly at an extremely crucial time where our very nation has a battle of unprecedented magnitude against a devastating virus which has unleashed destruction upon every demographic, economic, financial, humanitarian and social aspect of our lives. No one has been left unaffected by the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Now, more than ever, people need support, approval, and kindness. It shouldn’t matter if it’s a relative, a neighbour, or our local council member.

Specifically, acting mayor Roppel has not asked for this appointment, but has graciously stepped in to serve his community to the best of his ability. At the very least, he deserves respect, support, and the resources he requires in order to continue serving this community in the best way possible. 

I personally thank all public service persons who continue to make our region a great place to live.

Sincerely,
Kathryn Kolkman
Inverhuron
 

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To the Editor:

I signed the Our Kincardine petition digitally because we are in a provincial stay-at-home order and Kincardine council should accept the petition as it is if the municipality truly wants the community to follow the order, especially in light of the increasing numbers of COVID-19 cases.

I totally agree with the group that is heading up this and fully support it.

It is time for change and for this council to stop appointing whoever it wants.

We already have a serious issue with our South Bruce Grey Health Centre hospital board doing this and we, as a community, are trying to stop “the old boys” attitude within that board regardless if the positions are volunteer or not. 
The members of the existing board should not be deciding who they do, or do not, want sitting on that board. The term of three years needs to be enforced to allow for those wanting to sit on this board the opportunity to do so!

At least we, as a community, have an opportunity to vote for our mayor and council members in a democratic way.

In light of the recent resignation of mayor Anne Eadie and the current deputy mayor did not get elected by the largest number of votes, then it only seems fair that the mayor position be filled by a by-election and through the will of the community not the will of the present council members.

Judi Brown
Kincardine
 

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To the Editor:

What is the matter with you people?! 

We don’t need a by-election during this pandemic period. Have you nothing better to do with your lives? 

Randy Roppel has been a devoted member of council for many years and will do his best for this municipality as mayor for the coming 1 1/2 years.
 
Is it the ulterior motive of the group, “Our Kincardine,” to have a female mayor and deputy mayor? 

I expect that both Anne Eadie and Marie Wilson would say the positions need to be filled by the best person for the job, not the best “woman” for the job. 

When we elect council members, we want them to do the best for this entire municipality, whatever their sex. Voting for a woman who will only see one point of view, is not someone I want representing our municipality.

Barbara Bennett
RR 4, Paisley