Brenner challenging incumbent in EZT Ward 2

Angie Brenner is running for the Ward 2 seat on East Zorra-Tavistock council in the Oct. 26 municipal election. Contributed photo

By Lee Griffi

No one has run against East Zorra-Tavistock (EZT) Coun. Scott Rudy during his political career, but the two-term Ward 2 councillor will have some competition on the ballot in October.

Angie Brenner and her partner are raising their two children, students at Hickson Central Public School and College Avenue Secondary School in Woodstock. She grew up in Waterloo Region and has proudly called East Zorra-Tavistock home for almost a decade.

“When I first joined this community, I was struck by the care and compassion that greeted me. The deep roots established by generations of families who have created strong social and spiritual ties were apparent. I quickly became involved in volunteer initiatives to broaden my connections and contribute to my community.”

Brenner’s volunteer experience includes helping with community events at Cassel Mennonite Church, service on the board of the Tavistock Assistance Program for four years, ambassador with Do More Agriculture Foundation, and she is currently the secretary for the Hickson Central Public School parent council and is U7 parent representative with the Tavistock Tornadoes Soccer Club.

She is a graduate of both the University of Waterloo and the University of Windsor.

“Professionally, I am a registered social worker with more than 25 years of experience working with children and their families. Currently, I am the program director with the Tavistock Assistance Program (TAP), serving Hickson, Tavistock and Shakespeare. In addition, I own and operate a therapy and consulting practice focused on mental health and wellness in agricultural and rural communities and first-responder populations, including transition and succession, conflict resolution, traumatic events, women’s health and older-adult life stages.”

Brenner explained her interest in local government started at a young age with family members participating in municipal elections and through involvement in student government and mock parliamentary conferences.

“While I was growing up, had several influential females in school board and municipal government positions; they served as role models to me. Over the years, my interest in local government and community service has gown into a passion. I have taken part in learning opportunities through the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and have observed countless council meetings to familiarize myself with procedure.”

She said she is running for council because she cares deeply about the community and feels she can be a strong voice for Ward 2 residents.

“In my recent conversations, I have noted that people are not always aware of how municipal government works or how local decisions are made. I look forward to the possibility of helping residents to stay informed and encouraging more people to become involved in local issues.”

While collecting nomination signatures, a resident told Brenner that East Zorra-Tavistock has many more goods than bads, something that has stayed with her.

“No community is perfect, and not everyone will always agree. My goal is to listen, to be present and to work hard to ensure our community shines, with many more goods than bads.”

Some issues top of mind includes speed and road safety. She explained continued oversight of these projects is imperative in the coming weeks and months, with the intent to reduce speeds to prevent speed-related incidents and to improve safety for children as they enter and exit school buses on local roads.

“I expect recreation opportunities, funding and community facilities will be an important topic of discussion on the tails of the township programming survey. Recreation plays a key role in maintaining healthy, connected communities.”

Brenner said another important issue will be ongoing financial planning.

“I have heard positive feedback about recent surplus budgets and the creation of reserves. Residents want to know that their tax dollars are being spent wisely, and where accumulated dollars are housed. Community education opportunities and feedback sessions are a helpful way to encourage resident participation, and further knowledge acquisition related to the merits of saving and spending.”

She added she has built strong relationships with her fellow Ward 2 residents and has gained an understanding of the issues that matter.

“I value respectful conversations and differing opinions. I am present at local events in Ward 2 and throughout the township. I believe that good decisions happen after gathering information, considering community input and being open and honest about the challenges and limitations.”

Brenner said she understands decisions made at the municipal level in East Zorra-Tavistock affect families, farms, businesses and future generations, and she is committed to being thoughtful, financially prudent and accessible to residents.

“I am grateful for the support and encouragement I have received from residents across Ward 2. I look forward to continued conversation over the coming months. I am ready to work hard, to be a councillor who is approachable, accountable and engaged,” she added.