Sidhu seeking a second term on Wilmot council

Wilmot Township Ward 3 Coun. Harvir Sidhu has announced he will seek re-election. Contributed photo

By Lee Griffi

Wilmot Township Coun. Harvir Sidhu said after nearly four years on council, one thing is clear – the work isn’t done.

As a result, the first-time politician will run for a second term in Ward 3.

“I’ve worked to push for line-by-line budgets, requested reporting on past spending and helped open up the process so residents have more opportunities to be heard at council. This even includes on items not listed on agendas.”

Sidhu said he’s consistently pressed for a more open and transparent budget process and stronger long-term financial planning.

“Residents deserve to know not just where their money is going today, but where we’re headed tomorrow. And as part of a two-tier system, I haven’t hesitated to ask tough questions and push for more transparency from the region when decisions impact our community. That’s something I will continue to do.”

He explained his candidacy is about respecting residents’ hard-earned tax dollars and making sure decisions are made openly, responsibly and with taxpayers at the forefront.

“The number one issue I’m hearing from residents is still our financial position and the need to get our budgets under control. People want confidence that we’re on the right path and that their tax dollars are being managed responsibly. In this past term, I was a part of a council that really started to push back, ask tougher questions and shine a brighter light on our finances. That work has started, but residents are clear they want to see it continue and they want to see it done right.”

Sidhu explained the most satisfying part of his time on council has been being a voice for the residents who elected him to bring their concerns to the council table.

“It’s also the trust residents place in us to manage their tax dollars responsibly. Being able to push for accountability and represent the community in that way has been incredibly meaningful.”

Sidhu, who grew up in Tavistock, said when the all-rookie council was elected three and a half years ago, there was a clear need to refocus on the basics of municipal governance particularly around transparency, financial oversight and long-term planning.

“I worked with members of council to push for more openness in our budgeting process and to start charting a more responsible path forward, including strengthening our reserves and working toward a proper long-term financial plan.”

He claimed progress has been made, including improvements in staff leadership and a shift toward greater accountability. He cautioned there is more work to be done.

“That includes continuing to build a culture of transparency, strengthening financial planning and ensuring council is consistently providing strong oversight on behalf of residents.”

He added that with the support of his constituents, he will run again to continue working hard to make Wilmot a better place to live.

“I will continue to ask the tough questions, push for better and stand up for the residents of Baden. As always, you can reach out to me at harvir.sidhu@wilmot.ca with any questions or concerns or to discuss any issues in our community.”