Chowan seeking council spot in EZT

Don Chowan is hoping to be elected as Ward 3 councillor in the Oct. 26 East Zorra-Tavistock municipal election. Photo courtesy of Don Chowan

By Lee Griffi

Don Chowan has spent his career building relationships. As a self-employed retail design professional, he understands the importance of listening to people, finding practical solutions and delivering on commitments. Those are the same values he hopes to bring to East Zorra-Tavistock (EZT) council.

Chowan and his wife, Mary, have been married for 46 years. More than eight years ago, they chose to make Innerkip their home because they were drawn to the warmth and charm of small-town living. Since then, Chowan said he has become an active member of the community, believing that giving back is one of the best ways to strengthen the place you call home.

“If you’ve spent time around Innerkip, there’s a good chance you’ve seen me walking my two Goldendoodles, Bentley and Willow, through the village. Those daily walks have become more than just exercise – they’ve provided countless opportunities to stop, chat with neighbours, hear their ideas and listen to what matters most to the people who call this community home.”

Chowan currently serves as chairman of the board of directors for the Innerkip Seniors Apartment and is a board member of two woodturning clubs.

“Through my involvement with the Bravery Bead Bowl Program, I help provide handcrafted wooden bowls to children receiving treatment at Children’s Hospital in London and SickKids Hospital in Toronto. The bowls are used to hold the beads children receive after each medical procedure, creating a lasting reminder of their courage throughout their health-care journey.”

He added when the couple isn’t volunteering, they enjoy travelling and have explored many parts of the world.

“While those experiences have been rewarding, they have also reinforced just how special it is to live in a close-knit community like Innerkip,” he said.

Chowan said his decision to run for council comes from a desire to serve his community and help shape its future.

“Our township is growing quickly, and with that growth comes both opportunities and challenges,” he said. “I want to be a voice for everyone – longtime residents who want to preserve the character of our community and new families who have chosen to make East Zorra-Tavistock their home.”

If elected, Chowan wants to focus on responsible long-term planning that keeps pace with the community’s growth.

“My priorities include improving traffic safety, working toward solutions for ongoing power outages, supporting investments in parks, recreation, libraries and community facilities, and exploring better transportation options for seniors and youth to connect with services in Woodstock.”

Above all, he believes a councillor’s most important responsibility is to listen.

“Council works best when residents know they’re being heard,” he said “I want to be approachable, accessible and committed to bringing the concerns and ideas of our residents to the council table.”

Chowan believes his years of business experience, volunteer leadership and commitment to the community have prepared him to serve Ward 3 with integrity and common sense.

“I care deeply about this community and the people who live here. I would be honoured to earn your trust and your support as your next Ward 3 councillor.”