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Sandy Buxton heads MRA board of directors

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In Council Watch
Jan 27th, 2014
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News release from Midhurst Ratepayers Association

On Sunday, January 26, the Midhurst Ratepayers’ Association held their 2014 AGM, “Community Matters”.  It was a hugely successful event with roughly 70 enthusiastic people attending, despite the challenging weather.

Our Community Appreciation Buffet was also a big hit, thanks to our amazing volunteers who whipped up their best chili and soup recipes, mostly from local ingredients.

Carl Cosack, NDACT chair and celebrated face of the group that defeated the Melancthon Mega-Quarry in a modern version of David and Goliath, gave an inspiring speech that reaffirmed why community doesmatter.

He stressed the obligation we all have to stand up and do whatever we can to protect our community’s integrity and, equally, to remind our elected representatives that we do have the right to a large stake in its future by exercising our democratic right to vote for candidates who share our views and commit to acting accordingly.

The MRA also acclaimed its new Board of Directors – a group full of talent, perseverance and heart.

The MRA is proud to introduce its new Board of Directors:

Executive

President:  Sandy Buxton has been a member of the MRA for the past year and brings a long history of community involvement and advocacy.  From federal program administrator regarding immigration and employment to counsellor specialising in barriers to employment to consultant on homelessness in Toronto, Sandy has always been involved in improving the status quo and fighting for the underdog.  She has lived happily in Midhurst for 10 years and is eager to apply her leadership skills and experience to supporting and preserving Midhurst.

Vice President: David was the spark plug igniting the community to action in November 2011, when Springwater Township revealed the true extent of the Midhurst Secondary Plan to the public. Since then, he has contributed his considerable energy and talents to ensuring that governments involved with the MSP are both accountable and transparent. He wants to continue pressuring governments to be environmentally and fiscally responsible.

Secretary:  Margaret Prophet joined the MRA in 2013 out of a need to do right by the world her children will inherit.  From teaching to director positions in a private education franchise, Margaret has always sought to help others be their best, whether as an individual or a community.  As Secretary and Communications Director, Margaret will continue raising public awareness of Midhurst’s plight, as well as the dangers of sprawl and poor planning in all communities.

Treasurer:  Rick McFadden is also a long-time member of the MRA, a man who felt compelled to do right by his community by doing what he can to oppose the MSP.  With vast experience in business, Rick brings a no-nonsense, strategic approach to MRA’s activities.  Rick will continue in his role as Treasurer, as well as supporting the MRA in other initiatives in 2014.

Members At Large

Paul Fleming: A long-time Midhurst resident, psychologist, former Springwater councillor and past president of the MRA, Paul brings a wealth of knowledge and skills to the MRA Board.  His portfolio for MRA will be Government Relations, which is well-suited to this experienced statesman.

Connie Spek:  Connie has lived in Midhurst for over 30 years and has been an integral part of various community organizations over the years.  Connie has 25 years experience as an environmental planner/earth scientist and is a past Board member of the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority.  Naturally, then, Connie will chair the Environmental Committee to ensure that Midhurst’s environmental concerns are fully investigated and brought to the attention of decision-makers.

Barb Kutcher:  Barb works hard to make her community better, and has done so for Midhurst over the past 17 years.  From church organizations to various environmental groups, Barb’s middle name is action.  Her role in the MRA will be as Community Organizer, coordinating special events and engaging in key activities on behalf of the MRA as our township prepares for a municipal election in October.

Kevin Newman:  Kevin has only been a member since 2013, but his strategic mind and talent with logistics quickly became apparent.  Kevin will be applying those skills as Logistics Chair, helping with both administrative functions and logistics for events, special meetings and the internal organisation of the MRA.

Bob Lines:  Bob is a long-term Midhurst resident and also a past president of the MRA.  His sharp mind and analytical approach were big assets during the MRA’s preparation for the OMB and in working with our legal team.  Bob will function as Chair of the Legal and Research Committee.

We’re always looking for new people and resources to help us defend our Springwater communities.  After all, this is not just a Midhurst problem – it’s a Springwater problem.  Contact us to volunteer, donate, become a member or raise questions and concerns at:  savemidhurstvillage@gmail.com  or through our Facebook page “Save Midhurst Village”.  Membership is open to any adult resident of Springwater.

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