Tillsonburg council candidates speak about themselves

Jeff Helsdon, Editor

Why do you want to run for council?

This basic question was posed to council candidates this week, as well as another, on if they live in town, and how long they have lived in town. They were given an 18-word limit on the first question to discuss their background, and 75 words to explain why they are running for council.

Here’s what they had to say, in alphabetical order:

Mayoral candidates

Deb Gilvesy – Yes, raised on local farm, in town since 2012, deep roots as my grandparents built Hillcrest Motel in 1950. I am not done giving back to the community. I have truly enjoyed this journey and want to continue serving Tillsonburg. I want to see the next phase of our industrial park come to fruition and continue the momentum we have built in industrial growth. There is still important work ahead, and I believe my experience, commitment and knowledge of our community can help move these priorities forward.

Kelly Spencer - Yes, I have lived in Tillsonburg for over 50 years, building my business, family, and community life here. I’m running because Tillsonburg deserves experienced, accessible and collaborative leadership that listens to residents and gets things done. I’m rooted in this community, having spent my life serving it as a business owner, volunteer, former nurse and council member. I want to build on that experience to support responsible growth, a strong local economy and effective municipal services. I believe everyone deserves to feel welcomed, safe and included in our downtown and proud to call Tillsonburg home.

Councillor candidates

Lindsay Ambrus-Mejaski - Yes. I was born and raised in Tillsonburg, moved away for university in early adulthood, and returned to raise my family here. I am running because I love Tillsonburg and want to help protect what makes our community such a special place to live. As a mother of three young children, I would bring a perspective currently missing at council. I believe young families deserve a voice at the table. Through my very-involved family, small business and community volunteer experience, I want to bring a practical, collaborative perspective focused on responsible spending, safe streets, recreation, thoughtful growth and the services our community needs.

Dave Beres – Yes, I moved here in 1976 where I owned what is now called Beres Butchery and Catering on Broadway. Tillsonburg is entering a new chapter. Fresh ideas matter and so does continuity. When first elected several years ago, our grandkids were yet to be born but I was looking ahead and now, they appreciate the decisions I made. These are big picture items like roads, infrastructure and jobs. No one has certainty on what the future brings but experience helps when tough decisions arise.

Clayton Curtis – Yes, my family tree is rooted in this town, and has been for the better part of two centuries. I am running for town council to take action that will affect positive change in our community. I need to represent the future of our town and act in the long-term best interest of our whole community. I have the tools, the drive, and the commitment to offer my time and a crucial perspective/purpose to this town council. I feel that I must take action, and I know I can make a difference to better this community for us all.

Katherine Englander – Yes, I moved to Tillsonburg in 1985. I’m running because I love Tillsonburg. I’ve been involved in this community for many years, and I believe I have experience that can contribute at the council table. I’m a listener, a problem-solver and someone who believes in bringing people together. I want to see Tillsonburg grow, but grow thoughtfully and responsibly. I want to be a strong voice for residents, businesses, families and seniors, and I want council to focus on practical solutions, fiscal responsibility and a positive vision for our future.

Ron Gasparetto - Yes, I have lived in Tillsonburg for 23 years but have been active in the community since 1993 (33 years). I am running for council because I believe in giving back to the community that has provided so much to my family and me. Vibrant communities are built by people who care and are willing to contribute their time, experience, and energy. After 33 years in public service, I would be honoured to bring my knowledge and experience to council. I love Tillsonburg and want to help ensure it continues to flourish as a community we are proud to call home.

John Gilvesy – No, we live on Potters Road, but our businesses and rental properties are in Tillsonburg. We were born in Tillsonburg hospital, went to schools and church in Tillsonburg, shop in Tillsonburg, and have our doctor, lawyer and accountant in Tillsonburg. My interests are in promoting the best interests of Tillsonburg.

Stephen Molnar – Yes, I was born, raised and consider it a privilege to live in Tillsonburg with my wife Colleen. My decision to seek election to the position of Councillor is based on my personal commitment to every resident of Tillsonburg that I will once again accept the responsibility with all the time and energy I have demonstrated in the past, including four terms as Mayor. Tillsonburg deserves experienced commitment for sustainable results. By working together, we can ensure that Tillsonburg can be the “Place to Build Your Future.”

Felix Nzemeka – Yes, I have lived in Tillsonburg for approximately six years, working in housing support and operating Fex Health Care Inc. I believe public service begins with listening, caring, and working together. I want to contribute my community service, pastoral care, and business experience to help build a healthy, safe, caring, and economically strong community. My focus is responsible growth, supporting seniors and families, strengthening local businesses and agriculture, protecting taxpayers, and ensuring residents have a strong voice in decisions affecting our town.

Chris Parker - Yes, born and raised in Tillsonburg. Tillsonburg is my home, and I care deeply about its future. I am running for town council because I want to continue serving residents, being their voice, and helping shape the decisions that impact our community. I believe strong infrastructure and well-maintained recreation facilities are essential to Tillsonburg. My goal is to help ensure Tillsonburg remains a great place to live, work, play, and raise a family.

Chris Rosehart – Yes, I have lived in town for 55 years but have always lived in the area and called Tillsonburg home. I feel I have lots to offer as a business owner and a long-time resident. Tillsonburg needs all kinds of business, small and large, to support everything that we have and want to have. It takes tax dollars to do that but it needs to be done carefully as a business owner for over 48 years I have experience doing just that. I care deeply about Tillsonburg and the people and families in it.

Kim Sage - Yes, I live at the North end of Tillsonburg, and was born and raised on a tobacco farm in Guysborough. I am running for council to give back to a community that has given so much to me. I want to be sure Tillsonburg stays amazing enough for my grandchildren and their children.

Dee Tosto - Yes, my family lives in Tillsonburg, and moved here in 2023. What started as a move, has quickly become home. I got involved, met people, joined local organizations, and started listening to what matters to the people who live here. Many of the people who call Tillsonburg home were once new to town too. Fresh ideas and new perspectives deserve a place at the table. At the same time, I have a deep respect for the history, traditions and people who have built this town. I want to bring both perspectives to council and help shape where Tillsonburg goes next.