New candidate hoping to bring fresh ideas to Shelburne council

August 25, 2022 · 0 Comments

By Paula Brown

First-time election candidate Jim Bates says he is looking to bring a fresh set of ideas to the next term of Shelburne Town Council.

Bates submitted his nomination papers on Aug. 19, becoming one of the twelve candidates vying for the five open seats on Shelburne Town Council.

Speaking with the Free Press, Bates said his decision to run in the municipal election came from a desire to see change in the community as well as encouragement from residents to be a resounding voice.

“I’m always about trying to make things better and trying to change, and if you don’t have a voice in there, you’re not going to get it done,” said Bates. “My biggest interest in running is to do good for the community, that’s what the whole role is about.”

A life-long resident of Dufferin County, Bates grew up on a farm in the Township of Amaranth and eventually moved to Orangeville. It was around twelve years ago he made the decision to move to Shelburne.

“I find it a very good community and it’s quieter. Now to see more infrastructure going in makes me quite happy to see for the people in the community,” said Bates.

Bates works for the Region of Peel as a sub foreman in the composting facility and it’s his experience in construction he said could be a benefit on council.

“When things are being talked about as far as infrastructure that’s where being in the trade of number of years may help other people to understand a little more,” said Bates.

Running in his first election, Bates is focusing part of his platform on infrastructure projects such as the the waste water plant, improving roads, and pursuing a bypass for Shelburne trucks to help relieve stress on Main Street.

Bates also noted a focus on keeping taxes low and under control.

Speaking to his goal if elected to council, Bates said, “Just to have a voice for the people and see tax dollars spent properly, not that they’re wasted, but to get the best bang for your buck for the people of Shelburne.”

The municipal election is set to take place on Oct. 24.