Ireland Files

Monday, 27 January 2014 06:45

Chris Ireland highlights his reasons for running for Ingersoll Town Council

A new face is being added to the ballot for Ingersoll Town Council.

Chris Ireland is one of four people who have filed their nomination papers for the position so far.

Growing up in Cape Town, South Africa Ireland says it wasn't until his family settled in Ingersoll that he felt at home and that's something that made him want to join council.

"That feeling of being at home and being somewhere where I feel I belong, that's an ideal that I want to help, with a team of other councillors bring the community together so all of the residents feel that way and feel that purpose and value. I want to be that voice for the community so we can get to that level."

The Toyota Group Leader says he likes to think of himself as a person who paves the way for success for those around him which he believes is one quality that will help make him successful in a council position.

"It's passion, it's drive, dedication and then I've acquired a wealth of knowledge through management of many different large budgets, safety issues, human resource relations, through working at Toyota. It's like a small city. Learning that and applying that along with education and just a really strong desire to serve the community."

The newcomer to municipal politics says the landfill and water supply are just two of the big issues facing Ingersoll today.

"Accessible healthcare is a big issue. Community safety, a sense of belonging, just wanting all residents to feel like they belong. Education, equal opportunity for all of the residents. I feel like low income housing and necessary conditions are definitely an issue that has a lot of room for improvement, somewhere I feel I can make a difference and just overall economic equilibrium and growth all together as a community."

Three others have already filed their nomination papers for Ingersoll Council.

There are five positions up for grabs in total.