Sutherland running for Woodstock City Council spot

Kurt Sutherland. (Contributed Photo)

Lee Griffi, Editor

Kurt Sutherland was born and raised in Woodstock and works as a Quality Assurance & Fleet Specialist at Execulink Telecom, a local Internet Service Provider. On the home front, he is blessed with a wonderful blended family of five children and eight grandchildren—all of whom live in Oxford County.

“Giving back to the community has always been a core part of who I am. I proudly serve as Treasurer and League Web and Schedule Coordinator for the Woodstock Men's Old Timers League and volunteer with the Woodstock Minor Basketball Association as a Director, League Registrar, and Web and Schedule Coordinator. I am a member of the Woodstock Navy Club, and when I’m not working or volunteering, you can usually find me designing and printing 3D files as a hobby,” he said.

Sutherland said he is running because he believes it’s time for some fresh perspectives and new energy on city council.

“Woodstock is becoming far too expensive for people to live comfortably, and I want to ensure my children and grandchildren have genuine opportunities to build their futures right here at home. For that to happen, things need to change.”

He added he cares deeply about our vulnerable community members.

“I feel strongly for our unhoused population and am committed to working toward compassionate solutions that restore their dignity and respect. Finally, I want to ensure that as our city grows, our infrastructure is managed responsibly and taxpayer money is spent wisely.”

He explained the most pressing issues facing Woodstock right now are rising property taxes, overall affordability, and homelessness.

“Affordability is hitting households hard, and the dream of homeownership is slipping out of reach for too many working families and young people—a problem heavily compounded by rising property taxes. Everyone deserves affordable housing options and proper access to the support services they need, including mental health care. When our residents are squeezed financially and vulnerable neighbours are left behind, the whole community feels the strain.”

Sutherland said the city needs a fresh breath of life on council, paired with true accountability and transparency.

“I am committed to delivering that accountability. I ask for your vote so we can work together to build a more sustainable, affordable future for our city.”

He explained he brings decades of lived experience as a long-time homeowner and property tax-paying resident who has watched the city evolve.

“I’ve seen our taxes and garbage bag tag fees rise consistently without a proportional increase in value for residents. We need fresh leadership that will look for creative, new avenues for economic growth—growth that doesn’t automatically place the heaviest burden on the backs of local taxpayers.”

Sutherland said he wanted to remind everyone this election features online voting, making it easier than ever to make your voice heard.

“Please exercise your democratic right, vote for positive change, and support Kurt Sutherland for Woodstock City Council.”