For more information, Shea suggests visiting his website at votemattshea.ca or his Facebook page at Matt Shea for North Stormont councillor. Courtesy Photo

NORTH STORMONT – Monkland resident Matt Shea is seeking to be elected as councillor in the Township of North Stormont in the upcoming municipal election. “I want to make a difference,” commented Shea during a recent interview with The Chesterville Record.

A resident of Eastern Ontario for over 25 years and seven years in North Stormont, Shea has volunteered in the community, serving as vice president of the Monkland and District Community Centre committee for several years as well as being a foster parent. He cited his experience with the MDCC and following local politics convinced him it was time to run for council.

“I have no other political aspirations than to serve North Stormont,” commented the candidate. Shea continued he seeks to work in a positive manner for the benefit of all residents and to work collaboratively with other council members if elected.

Challenges facing North Stormont include municipal growth, staffing at the North Stormont municipal office and infrastructure issues. Shea described the need for upgrading roads, better internet and cell phone alternatives and bringing natural gas available to all areas of the municipality. He noted vacancies in three of the top administrative positions at the municipal office need to be addressed. Shea would like to see more transparency in council matters as well as providing residents with the opportunity to engage with council. Residential and business growth is occurring in the municipality, and he feels the administrative process should be made easier to encourage this growth.

Shea noted North Stormont is a great municipality in which to live and work, commenting residents are helpful and work together to achieve goals. The candidate is a strong supporter of local small businesses, which he considers as an integral part of the community.