Cripps turning focus on education to Ingersoll Town Council

Dave Cripps. (Contributed Photo)

Lee Griffi, Editor

Dave Cripps is well known as being a Thames Valley District School Board trustee, but he is hoping to land a spot as an Ingersoll councillor.

“I have proudly called Ingersoll home for nearly 30 years. Professionally, I work as a consulting director within the insurance industry where I lead teams responsible for delivering large-scale technology and business transformation initiatives.”

He added he’s learned the importance of listening, bringing people together, making informed decisions, and ensuring that both strategy and projects deliver real value for the people they serve.

“Outside of my career, I am a husband, father, local business owner, community volunteer, and someone who genuinely enjoys being involved in the life of our town. Through my family's event business, my work with the Downtown Ingersoll BIA, Library Board, Community Futures and as one of Oxford County’s public school board trustees, I've had the opportunity to work alongside local businesses, volunteers, community organizations, and families who care deeply about Ingersoll's future,” he added.

Whether I'm supporting community events, spending time with family, or simply enjoying our parks and downtown, I value the sense of community that makes Ingersoll such a great place to live.

Cripps said he made the decision to run because he believes Ingersoll has tremendous potential and wants to help ensure we continue growing in a thoughtful, responsible way.

“My campaign isn't about politics, it's about our community. Over the coming months, I want to hear from as many residents as possible about what matters most to them. My role, if elected, would be to listen, ask good questions, evaluate information carefully, and work collaboratively with fellow members of council, partners and staff to make decisions that serve the long-term interests of our community.”

He said municipal government is responsible for delivering the services people rely on every day, from roads and infrastructure to recreation, planning, and public spaces.

“Those decisions deserve careful governance, transparency, and respect for every taxpayer dollar.”

Like many growing communities, Ingersoll is balancing growth with affordability. Cripps explained residents expect reliable infrastructure, well-maintained roads, quality recreational facilities, strong community services, and responsible financial management.

“As our community continues to grow, we need to ensure those services grow with it while keeping taxes sustainable. Supporting local businesses is equally important. A vibrant downtown and a strong local economy create jobs, attract investment, and contribute to the quality of life that makes people proud to call Ingersoll home.”

Cripps added he believes council must continue to build trust through openness, transparency, collaboration respectful decision-making.

“Residents deserve to understand not only what decisions are being made, but why they're being made.”

When it comes to why residents should vote for him, Cripps he brings a combination of professional leadership experience, community involvement, and a collaborative approach to problem-solving.

“Throughout my career I've developed strategic objectives, managed complex projects, balanced competing priorities, worked with diverse groups, and been accountable for delivering results. Those skills translate well to municipal governance.”

More importantly, he added, he doesn’t believe elected officials should have all the answers before they begin.

“I believe they should have the willingness to listen, learn, ask thoughtful questions, and make informed decisions after hearing from the community. And do so with empathy! My commitment is to represent everyone with professionalism, integrity, and respect, regardless of whether we always agree. I want residents to know they have a potential councillor who is approachable, accessible, and genuinely interested in hearing their perspectives.”

Cripps said he’ll be knocking on doors, attending community events, and having conversations throughout Ingersoll.

“I hope residents will introduce themselves, share their ideas, and tell me what they believe our priorities should be. Building a stronger community starts with listening. I look forward to earning the opportunity to serve the residents of Ingersoll and to help build our town's next chapter together.”