SELKIRK—Residents of Haldimand County’s Ward 1 gathered at the Selkirk Centennial Community Centre on Wednesday, March 13, 2025 to hear from the candidates vying for the Ward 1 Council seat in the upcoming byelection.
The debate, hosted by the Selkirk Chamber of Commerce, saw candidates Brian Doyle, Debera McKeen, and Alicia Phillips address key issues facing the ward. Vallance Patrick, a director of the Chamber, served as moderator.
Patrick opened the event by emphasizing the importance of informed voting.
“An election is one of the most important pieces of a functioning democracy,” he said. “Thank you all for coming out here tonight to hear these candidates and to be able to make an informed choice.”
The candidates delivered opening statements and then addressed five chamber questions. Following a short break, audience questions were asked of the candidates. Finally, each candidate gave closing remarks.
Opening Statements
The candidates introduced themselves and outlined their visions for Ward 1.
Phillips, a long-time resident of Fisherville, stated, “This is home, and I’m deeply passionate about seeing it thrive. I stand before you as someone who listens to the people and makes decisions based on facts and real needs.”
McKeen shared her motivation to run based on concerns with previous Council decisions: “Becoming a politician was not on my bucket list, nor was it even on my radar,” she admitted. “But I decided to throw my hat in the ring because I saw elected officials ignoring the voices of the people they were meant to serve.”
Doyle, who previously served on Council in 1991, positioned himself as a qualified leader, stating, “I bring an experienced voice to the table…. I know how government works, and I know how to fight for the needs of our community.”
Working with Other Governments
Candidates were asked about their approach to engaging with the provincial and federal governments.
Doyle stressed the importance of unity: “We have a voice at that table, and we need to use it wisely,” he said.
Phillips highlighted the need for collaboration, stating, “We must ensure we are part of larger conversations, whether that’s growth, infrastructure, or economic development.”
McKeen emphasized maintaining respect in government relations. “We need to be on the same page when engaging with higher levels of government,” she said.
Addressing Crime
With concerns over rising crime, the candidates outlined their approaches to safety.
Phillips advocated for increased police presence and community engagement. “We must ensure our communities are safe, especially for our children,” she said.
McKeen praised existing neighbourhood watch efforts, stating, “It’s clear that community involvement is essential in reducing crime.”
Doyle, reflecting on past efforts, noted, “Thirty years ago, we had a stronger police presence, and we need to get back to that. A visible police force can deter crime.”
Healthcare Shortages
Candidates agreed that attracting more doctors to the area was a priority.
McKeen suggested promoting the benefits of rural life to medical professionals.
Phillips proposed incentives like modern medical facilities and subsidized housing for medical staff “to create an environment where doctors want to stay, not just visit.”
Doyle emphasized a need for better organization in the existing system, noting delays with his own appointments, adding, “We need to make it more attractive for doctors to settle here by improving work conditions.”
Industrial Development
The ongoing underutilization of the Nanticoke Industrial Park was a pressing topic.
Doyle called for more investment, stating, “We need jobs, and that means attracting businesses to our industrial park. We should be reaching out to companies.”
Phillips stressed the importance of strategic partnerships: “We need strong collaboration with provincial and federal governments to ensure the right businesses come here. Incentives and training programs for local workers will make our region more appealing.”
McKeen warned that inaction could result in more closures: “We lost good jobs when the generating station shut down. We can’t afford to see more businesses leave. I’ve spoken with local business owners looking to expand, and we need to support them.”
Power Generation at Nanticoke
Regarding proposals for a new power-generating facility, Phillips gave her full support: “If we consider the alternative, I think it’s a pretty easy answer.”
McKeen, citing her experience in energy production, said, “I’ve seen firsthand how clean and efficient modern gas and nuclear plants can be. We already have the infrastructure in place, so this makes sense.”
Doyle echoed their sentiments, noting, “This is about good jobs and long-term stability.”
Audience Questions
Residents raised additional concerns, including shoreline infrastructure, municipal zoning orders, and public access to the lakefront.
Doyle highlighted the importance of road maintenance, saying, “We need to work with the County to ensure infrastructure is prioritized.”
McKeen expressed skepticism about expanding Council seats, arguing, “I don’t think seven councillors are necessary, and I believe taxpayers should have had more input before that decision was made.”
Phillips focused on communication and transparency, pledging, “I will prioritize community engagement and ensure that everyone’s voice is heard. That means open meetings, social media updates, and being available to residents.”
Closing Statements
In their final remarks, the candidates reaffirmed their commitment to Ward 1.
McKeen emphasized her readiness to serve: “I care deeply about this community. I don’t have another job – this will be my only focus.”
Phillips pledged to be an advocate for residents, stating, “If elected, I promise that your voice will be my mission. I will be a councillor who listens, advocates, and takes action.”
Doyle, reflecting again on his years of experience, assured voters, “I will stand up for Ward 1 and fight for what matters.”
With the byelection date approaching on April 10, and early voting starting on March 31, voters will soon decide who will represent both Ward 1 and Ward 4 until the next municipal election in 2026.
A Ward 1 Meet the Candidates event was hosted by the Jarvis Board of Trade on Tuesday, March 18 after publication.
A Ward 4 debate will be held March 27 at the Hagersville Legion at 6:30 p.m., hosted by the Hagersville Chamber of Commerce; a review of this debate will be included in the April 3 edition.
