Leatherbarrow seeking second term on Woodstock City Council

Kate Leatherbarrow. (Contributed Photo)

Lee Griffi, Editor

Kate Leatherbarrow was born in Woodstock but grew up picking eggs on a chicken farm in Haldimand County.

“One of the best parts about Woodstock (aside from the people) is living in a smaller urban centre with amenities and having gorgeous agricultural lands surrounding us. Living in Woodstock for the last 13 years, we've grown our family and opened a coffee roasting business. I’ve been involved with hospitality for over a decade.”

Aside from being a busy mom of four, Leatherbarrow said being a councillor is her other full-time job.

“Within my role as a councillor, I also serve on six committees. My hobbies include family time, eating at local establishments, and I am a big music lover.”

She explained she is seeking a second term on Woodstock City Council to build on progress and invest in our future.

“Two particular topics that I consistently hear about are the need for more child care spaces and recreational pressures impacting our community. There are other topics, of course, but these two I mention. Progress has been made, and I’d like to be at the table to continue to advocate for these needs.”

She added she has been committed to community engagement over the last four years and has provided Councillor Corner Recap videos that residents follow.

“These can be found on social media, but I am hoping to start uploading them on YouTube as well for extra accessibility. These videos highlight outcomes from council meetings, policies, processes and planning applications, as well as how to connect with city hall.”

Leatherbarrow said one of the biggest issues facing the city is aligning the needs for service improvements with the population increase.

“While the current council (and councils before me) have the great responsibility of balancing projects and service levels through the budget process, Woodstock has several large capital projects on the horizon. Not just next year, but throughout the next term of council, some of which have been identified prior to my term on council.”

She added the fate of those projects requires experience, engaging with residents, following the strategic plan, and heavy advocacy to different levels of government for continued partnership.

“Woodstock has felt these growing pains, and the pressure to deliver more ice, more gym space, more transit, and more amenities is abundantly clear. Residents and families are living in a time where everything costs more. The longer we wait, the higher these price tags will go.”

Leatherbarrow explained it is important to continue to advance the needs of residents to build a community where everyone feels they belong and has equal opportunity to thrive.

“The city’s two largest budget lines are police and fire, critical services, but there are other departments that also need attention to keep up with the demand for service. To name one or two specific projects: North Woodstock Recreational Facility, a third fire hall, and the StreetScape project that started in 2024.”

She added identifying projects and budgets as an issue facing the City of Woodstock is important because the community has so much potential ahead.

“Commitment and advancing these projects are a priority of mine. We are the largest urban centre in the region and positioned next to two major commuter corridors. We want the residents of Woodstock to work, play, dine, and stay in the city for their needs.”

Leatherbarrow said she is respectfully asking residents for their support to serve for a second term because she cares deeply for the community.

“I have consistently come to meetings prepared and been held accountable for all of my votes. I believe in community engagement, and my decision-making process is based on the voices of residents. I work hard and put many hours into this role. I am a team player and have had the good fortune of building relationships with other municipal councillors to “share notes” and see what works best across the province.”

She added there are 444 municipalities in Ontario and most, if not all, are facing similar challenges.

“Higher taxes, vulnerable populations, aging facilities, etc. Connecting with municipal staff and elected officials across the region and province has only added knowledge and understanding to my role. It’s been an honour of a lifetime to serve the citizens of Woodstock.”

Leatherbarrow added anyone can follow her campaign on social media and her website.

“Campaigning in your community is not only a privilege, but it is an excellent way to meet new people and listen to what residents desire. See you on the trail!”