Goderich Council Candidate: Kate Krouskie

By: Kate Smith

Many stepping stones, experiences and hard work led Kate Krouskie to a lengthy career at Allstate Insurance. As a Senior Litigation Specialist, Krouskie managed, assessed and negotiated complex files with authority to make significant monetary decisions.

During her career, Krouskie was also a single mother, determined to ensure her son had what he needed.

Concurrently, Krouskie also ran a small horse boarding stable.

Daily chores and ongoing maintenance on a farm can be challenging, and Krouskie says she met those challenges and learned what she is truly capable of.

Now, Krouskie is running for a position on Goderich Council in the upcoming municipal election.

“I’m running for council for many reasons, but certainly not for power, title or attention,” stressed Krouskie.

“I’m doing it for everyone who needs to be heard. I prefer to be a quiet helper behind the scenes, and there is nothing in it for me, but representing the residents of Goderich.”

Over the years, following and attending council meetings, Krouskie wants to have a position to represent the residents and their concerns.

During her career, Krouskie also spent time helping in many positions with several organisations. That list includes coaching minor hockey, a part of Guelph Women’s Hockey Administration, Eden Mills Writers’ Festival, and volunteered with Celtic Festival and United Way.

With high ethical standards, no conflicts of interest, independent of any group, business or outside pressure, Krouskie believes she is a strong candidate to represent the voices of residents in this community.

“My focus will be ensuring I put everything I have into the position,” vowed Krouskie.

“True to my principles and values, I’m open minded and prefer to hear people’s perspectives to learn, grow and make a fully inclusive and informed decision.”

Krouskie believes she is a strong candidate for Goderich Council because she is willing to speak up for the underdog, for those afraid to come forward or those who have lost hope.

According to Krouskie, it’s time to put citizens, infrastructure and core services first.

“If you want transparency and accountability, I’m your best bet,” said Krouskie.

“I can’t promise results, but I will fight to make a difference.”

If elected to council, Krouskie believes communication and transparency are a top priority.

She believes there should be no time limit for public forums. There should be an open discussion following a public presentation during the council meeting.

Krouskie also believes meeting times should be changed to accommodate working people so more citizens can attend and have their voices or concerns heard.

“Council is employed by the people and ought to be treated with respect,” explained Krouskie.

“This will create inclusivity instead of limiting who can run for council.”

Krouskie would like to have quarterly meet and greets to discuss issues and concerns with residents. She also believes notices for meetings, Charettes, and information sessions should be provided well in advance so people are award and can adjust their schedules to attend.

Another change Krouskie would like to see if elected, is that votes for and against agenda items should be recorded and closed-door sessions only be done, when necessary, as per legislation.

Key issues facing the community, according to Krouskie, include communication and transparency, affordability, accountability and prioritisation of infrastructure and community wellbeing.

Krouskie aims to strive for a thriving community.

“Everyone deserves a decent quality of life,” she added.

“Safety, inclusion, accessibility and food or shelter are high on my list of priorities. Roads and infrastructure must be prioritised. Let’s restore the beauty on the surface and for everyone who has chosen Goderich to be their home.”

From the waterfront, to riding the G2G or dining at favourites spots and spending time at the library, Krouskie understands that Goderich is a beautiful town to live in and wants to help it continue develop and grow.

“I’m running because I care, because you matter, because I have no agenda but to improve the quality of life for all by doing what needs to be done to make Goderich more affordable and improve the wellbeing of this community,” concluded Krouskie.

Each candidate was presented with the same interview questions. What is presented in these profiles, is a result of the responses received.