Gilson retiring from United Way, now seeking role on Woodstock council

Kelly Gilson.

Lee Griffi, Editor

“I am a passionate community champion who has proudly called Woodstock home since 1991. My husband Jeff and I moved here when I accepted the role of manager for the Downtown Woodstock BIA, and we’ve never looked back.”

Those were the first words from Kelly Gilson, who is running to become a Woodstock city councillor.

“Woodstock has been a wonderful place to raise our sons, Connor and Cooper, surrounded by supportive neighbours, caring school environments, great friends, and plenty of opportunities that helped them grow and thrive. We are well-rooted here, and it is heartwarming to see the lasting connections that happen when families have that sense of belonging.”

Among her volunteer roles, Gilson spent eight years on the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce board and 13 years on the Santa Claus Parade Committee. After 12 years with Downtown Woodstock, she joined United Way Oxford and immediately knew she was where she belonged.

Gilson said the opportunity to run for council feels like the natural next step in the work she has been doing throughout her career and volunteer life.

“Throughout my work and volunteer career, I’ve had the privilege of serving the people of Woodstock and Oxford County in many different ways. Those experiences have strengthened my commitment to listening deeply, learning from others, and building respectful relationships. Becoming Woodstock’s City-County Councillor would allow me to continue bringing people together, encouraging thoughtful dialogue, and supporting responsible, community-minded decision-making.”

Gilson said Woodstock is at a turning point, and council’s decisions about people, services, growth and financial responsibility will shape the city for decades to come.

“We require leadership that is informed, collaborative, and prepared to think boldly about the future. Strong, intelligent and creative decision-making will be essential. It must be grounded in a clear understanding of citizens’ needs, a commitment to open and honest communication, and a pledge to responsible spending and making wise financial investments.”

She said there will be many issues requiring decisions during the coming term of council, including homelessness and social service supports. While the municipality is not responsible for delivering housing and health care, Gilson said it must be willing to be part of the solution.

“It is a very complex and complicated social issue that requires the entire village to be involved. We have made strides forward thanks to the support of many, but there is still much to be done. I have been deeply involved in this work for many years and will bring a perspective to both the city and county based on understanding the reality of what is happening in our community.”

Gilson said Woodstock’s housing requirements extend far beyond the need to increase deeply affordable and supportive housing for people experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity.

“Given the high cost of rental units and the fact that we have less than a one per cent vacancy rate, we do not have adequate housing for many working individuals, families, and seniors. Approximately 38 per cent of Woodstock’s households meet the definition of being in core housing need, which is defined as not adequate, suitable, or affordable and the household would have to spend 30 per cent or more of their before-tax housing income to find a unit that meets all three standards.”

She also said the city must reimagine welcoming places and spaces where people feel safe, develop and build a sense of belonging and community connection.

“We have matured from a small city to a medium one, and that requires a shift in thinking as well as in what, and how, we deliver and budget for existing services. Citizens expect, and deserve, more. They require enhancements such as better transit service, more recreation facilities, additional services like arts and culture, a youth facility, more neighbourhood-based options, access to healthcare, and more.”

Gilson said investments drive the economy and bring new opportunities, including housing, employment, diversification of the existing business base and an increased tax base.

“It is equally important to seek to attract new businesses as well as support the retention of our existing ones. That includes plans to encourage tourism, downtown shopping, employment skills development, and the housing and community supports that encourage workers to want to call Woodstock home for themselves and their families.”

She believes she is uniquely positioned to bring a fresh perspective to the role of Woodstock’s City-County Councillor.

“My career and volunteer work have been grounded in action, impact and innovation based on deep community knowledge, ongoing engagement, and a clear understanding of local needs in both Woodstock and across Oxford County.”

Gilson said she has a long record of fostering collaboration, encouraging creative problem-solving, inspiring participation, practising strong and transparent fiscal management and donor stewardship, and making strategic, thoughtful decisions that lead to positive, measurable change.

Gilson said she is new to politics, but not new to many aspects of the work.

“I won’t make promises I can’t keep, or that as a single member of council I can’t deliver on. What I can promise is my dedication to serving Woodstock with honesty, integrity, transparency and a commitment to open communication, thoughtful decision-making and responsible spending.

Authentic leadership. A better tomorrow, together.”