Susan L. Ryan - Ward 4

*transcribed speech

My name is Susan Ryan, for those of you who don't know me. And I'm running for council in Ward 4 because I care deeply about Woodstock and the future that we're going to try and build together here.  I worked for 32 years at the Royal Bank. I have financial background.

 

I have financial planning, customer service, the ability to understand and communicate with people is very, very important. And I was also Stuart Fairgrave's constituency assistant when he was the MLA here.  So I've had lots of feeling with government Services and Government Programs.

 

This community has been my home and I want to see it to grow, progress and prosper and create new opportunities for families, businesses and young people. Over the past year, developments in my own neighborhood have made something very clear to me. The business of our town works best when residents are informed, engaged and able to participate in open and respectful public dialogue. People want to understand what is happening in their community and know that their voices matter. That experience is one of the reasons that I have decided to step forward as a candidate.

 

If elected, I intend to make listening a priority. I want to understand the concerns that residents have about their security, their neighborhoods and their quality of life. Good decisions come from hearing different perspectives and taking the time to understand how policies and developments affect people in their daily lives.

 

Woodstock is in a period of transition. Our town is growing, welcoming more citizens and becoming a larger and more dynamic community. That growth brings opportunity, but it also requires careful planning and thoughtful leadership.

 

I am committed to helping make this transition work well for everyone, long-term residents and newcomers alike. I believe in steady progress, respectful dialogue and responsible decision making. Most of all, I believe in Woodstock, in its people, its potential and its future.

 

I am honored to represent you as a town councillor and have your support on May 11. 

Thank you very much.