What integrity means to me: Standing firm, even when it’s not always easy
Integrity is more than just a value I talk about; it’s the foundation of effective leadership for me. It means having the courage to stand up in tough situations and speak the truth, even when it’s not easy or popular.
We all know I have stood up in the past four years, it’s no secret. Time and again, I have demonstrated that I will vote with integrity, not with friendships. Every decision I make is rooted in what I believe is best for our community, not in political convenience or personal alliances. Leadership is not about going along to get along, it’s about doing the right thing, even when it’s hard.
I am comfortable having difficult conversations, knowing that discomfort often leads to progress. Healthy debate is essential in public service; it allows us to consider diverse perspectives, challenge assumptions and ensure decisions are made with transparency and accountability.
Integrity in leadership also means choosing the harder, principled path over the easier, popular one. Doing the right thing doesn’t always bring instant approval, in fact it sometimes brings criticism (and sometimes a lot of criticism). But integrity is not about seeking applause; it’s about earning trust. It requires consistency between words and actions and a commitment to serve the people first.
In politics where it can be easier to stay silent or follow the crowd, I believe integrity is what sets true leaders apart. It strengthens democracy, builds confidence in decision-making and ensures that every voice is respected in the process.
In March of 2025 I brought forward a Motion to council that focussed on targeting the effects of the tariffs / local supplier. We need to prioritize and Identify alternatives to U.S.-based vendors (like Amazon), prioritize local suppliers and provide report on increase in local spending, without breaking any Trade Agreements. Although I stood alone, I continued to debate for the increased awareness of using the local suppliers; and in spite of being defeated there is now greater oversight on who we use and how much we spend.
For me, integrity isn’t situational - it’s foundational. It guides every choice I make as a leader and as a representative of our community. That commitment will never waiver.
So - Let’s Connect.
I believe integrity also means being accessible and open with the people I serve. I would love the opportunity to connect with you directly. Join me at an upcoming Meet & Greet, where we can talk about the issues that matter most to you, answer your questions and have an honest conversation about the future of our community.
