About Carlene:
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Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA)
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Former CFO, YWCA
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Hands-on experience
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Working mom of four
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Local (living in Elmira for 20+ years)
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Community advocate and financial counsellor
Temporary:
I’ve decided to run for Woolwich Township Council — Ward 1 (Elmira).
After careful consideration, I have decided to put my name forward to represent the residents of Elmira on Woolwich Township Council.
Over the past several months, a number of people have encouraged me to consider municipal government. Their confidence in me, combined with many thoughtful conversations about the future of our community, led me to prayerfully and carefully consider how I could best serve.
I have a deep appreciation for good governance, transparency, accountability, and thoughtful planning—not just for today’s needs, but for the long-term health and prosperity of Woolwich Township.
Throughout my career, I have worked in finance, capital planning, healthcare, and the social development sector, partnering with local charities, non-profit organizations, farms and community leaders to help steward resources responsibly and plan for the future. Those experiences have reinforced the importance of listening well, asking good questions, and making decisions that serve both current and future generations.
I’m seeking this opportunity because I want to serve our community and be an effective liaison between residents and Township government—helping ensure your voice is heard while working collaboratively to shape a strong future for Elmira and Woolwich.
I am grateful that there are already several people interested in representing our community, and I understand there are others preparing to submit their nomination packages shortly for the other two wards as well.
I believe this is a very good thing.
I firmly believe that only under very rare circumstances should one gain public office through acclamation. Far better is a democratic process.
An election is about much more than choosing who will hold a position. A campaign gives us an opportunity to meet people we may never otherwise have crossed paths with, introduce ourselves to our neighbours, hear different perspectives, and begin building relationships with the people we hope to represent.
When someone enters public office through acclamation, I believe both the public and the candidate lose something important: the opportunity to ask questions, hear concerns, challenge ideas, and begin building the relationships that make genuine accountability possible.
That is one of the foundations of a healthy democracy—and it matters at every level of government.
So, I sincerely hope more people will consider putting their names forward in Woolwich’s other wards.
And to residents: when the candidates come to your door, open it. Have a conversation. Ask questions. Share your ideas and concerns. Listen to what they have to say, and let them know what matters most to you.
But don’t stop there.
Throughout the term, reach out to your ward councillor and the Mayor with your concerns, your questions, and your encouragement. Talk with Township staff and those serving throughout our community. Ask what challenges they see and where opportunities exist.
Good government doesn’t happen only in the council chamber.
It happens when elected representatives and the people they serve know one another, listen to one another, and remain accountable to one another.
I look forward to meeting many more of my neighbours in Elmira over the coming months and hearing your hopes and concerns for our community.
Your Township. Your Voice. Responsible Governance.
