Mike Burkett seeking fourth term as mayor of Severn Township

Mike Burkett is seeking his fourth term as Mayor of Severn Township. Contributed photo

From OrilliaMatters, September 13, 2022

Editor’s note: OrilliaMatters has asked council candidates in neighbouring Oro-Medonte, Ramara and Severn townships to provide a synopsis of why they are running in the Oct. 24 municipal election. The following was submitted by Mike Burkett, who is seeking re-election as mayor of Severn Township. For more election coverage — including candidate profiles and other election news — visit our 2022 municipal election page by clicking here.
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I was born, raised and have lived in Severn Township my entire life — except for six years when, as a young man, I lived in Colombia and Brazil. I came back to Severn with a new perspective on life.

Decades later, I still remind people how fortunate we are to live in Severn Township, such a prosperous, free and most beautiful part of the world. It has been a privilege to be mayor of this Township for the last 12 years and I have been guided by the following:

A commitment to always respond as promptly as possible to residents. Whether by phone, email or in person, it’s how I learn first-hand about issues and concerns and how I might help.

Use my one vote on council wisely: get residents’ input, do research, and communicate well with staff and council — all with an eye on a positive outcome.

Visibility and participation in the community. This is vital. There is no substitute for attending celebrations, events and local meetings in person.

The past two-and-a-half years have been difficult for us all because of the pandemic but I am proud to say, in spite of the unprecedented challenges the township faced, key services were not interrupted, roads were improved, infrastructure and park /recreation improvements were made and budget expenses were managed well.

Residents have told me that they expect council to address many things over the next four years. Among the most repeated are: complete high-speed internet across the entire township; solve problem with short-term rentals; move forward with the much needed community centre in West Shore, the fastest growing part of the township; and continue a vigorous advocacy against the annexation of part of township by Orillia.

I am committed and eager to move forward with these issues and many others. I am confident that there will be significant support from our new council.

With your support, I believe my experience along with my solid relationship with the county, province and surrounding townships will serve all residents well. I will work diligently on your behalf for the future of Severn.

Please vote for me in the upcoming election.

Feel free to call me at 705-955-8377 or email  mikehburkett@gmail.com

Read the article here