Liberals hoping Hilderley can win Oxford on second try

(Contributed photo)

Lee Griffi, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Well-known public figure David Hilderley finished second in the 2023 Oxford by-election by about 2500 votes. He’s running again for the federal Liberals on April 28.

A long-time resident of Oxford County, he is well known for his community involvement and engagement. He spent 34 years as a teacher, consultant, vice-principal and principal in the Oxford County and Thames Valley District School Boards, supporting children and families in his home community.

Since retiring from education, his passion to serve families has not disappeared. As chair of the Golden Gala, co-chair of the South Gate Centre, and previous board member of the Woodstock Art Gallery, he has played a role in many local initiatives that benefit the residents of Oxford.

“I have always been involved in my community, providing leadership and commitment to several charities and initiatives,” explained Hilderley. “I was encouraged by friends and community leaders to let my name stand as the Liberal candidate. This election is the most important one in recent years, as US tariffs and Mr. Trump have created great uncertainty that needs to be properly addressed by a government that is strong in its tariff response and capable of uniting Canadians.”

Hilderley said the number one issue in the campaign is the chaos coming from south of the border.

“These actions have the potential to have a significant/serious impact on the jobs and lives of people in Oxford. From agriculture and food production to automotive parts and assembly, our residents deserve a calm and disciplined Member of Parliament who will Stand Up For Oxford. Protecting our robust economy is a top priority for me as a candidate, as it is for Prime Minister Carney.”

He added the protection of the natural environment and prime agricultural land in Oxford is something he is passionate about.

“Climate change is real and the Liberal Party is committed to a cleaner, greener future. I also stand fully behind our supply management sector which supports family farms in Oxford. Protecting the prime land they cultivate is essential to ensuring we remain food secure.”

Hilderley said his third top issue is housing, specifically density and intensification within urban centres, which will reduce the need to sprawl out into agricultural land.

“Housing starts need to be accelerated to balance out the supply of homes to meet the pressing needs in Oxford.”

He added Canadians cherish the universal, publicly funded health care system we have and instead of allowing wealthy people to cut the line, he is committed to improving and expanding the system in Oxford. He is also encouraged by the recently approved Homelessness Response Strategy that has just been approved by Oxford County.

“This robust plan is a multifaceted approach among numerous community groups. If we are going to address encampments in our community, we will need a coordinated approach. I am excited about the opportunity to work at the federal level to support this housing policy.”

Hilderley added elections are divisive by nature but is encouraging people in Oxford to focus on the collective goals of protecting the economy, protecting jobs, and supporting local businesses.

“Division won’t win a trade war. Division won’t pay the mortgage. Division won’t make Canada strong.”