So far, the past three weeks of March have been quite busy:
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working with staff and Council on the 2007 budget;
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attending meetings of the Porcupine Health Unit Board, the District of Cochrane Social Services Administration Board, the Kirkland & District Community Development Corporation and some of our local boards and committees such as the Library board;
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meeting with and contacting by phone other Northern Mayors to discuss opportunities and issues of mutual interest or concern;
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attending a presentation from MPAC that was very illuminating;
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communicating with potential developers about possibilities;
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speaking with representatives looking at BR-M as a good place to do business (one new business, in particular, is very serious in their desire to move to Matheson);
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assisting in opening the JHK Princess Pageant;
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attending the Holtyre “Community Fun Day”;
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working with Councillor Tim on the Holtyre water issue along with the Porcupine Health Unit and the Ministry of the Environment regarding water tests initiated by Councillor Tim;
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meeting with Northern College and Contact North executives toward providing BR-M with various assistance and to work on developing more cooperative ventures;
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meeting with the President of ONR in discussing mutually supportive ideas;
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meeting with the OPP to address BR-M policing concerns;
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exchanging views and ideas with various Councillors;
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speaking with and trying to help a number of citizens with specific issues;
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attending the March 19th Council meeting. The Coordinator of the 2009 International Plowing Match committee spoke glowingly to Council about their plans to host this event in Earlton in 2009. Black River-Matheson must take advantage of this opportunity and be prepared to put our “best foot forward” to promote our Agriculture, Mining and Forestry opportunities!
On my “off hours” I think of the things I didn’t have time to do, the things I should have done, and all the things that still have to be done.
This is pretty typical of the kinds of things I do as Mayor. The good part is that I still enjoy being really busy. But the very best part is the direct contact I have with many people in our community. I really appreciate speaking directly with the people of Black River-Matheson, so please keep calling and talking.
March 21, 2007 at 2:04 pm |
Hi Mike,
I know how devoted you are to the people and communities of Black River-Matheson. Your hard work, long hours and the love you put into your job, has not gone unnoticed and is apprectiated. I know the fruits of your labours will benefit all.
Thank-you Cathy
March 21, 2007 at 2:13 pm |
Hi Mke:
Thank you for your outstanding committment to the people in our community. We have waited a long time for a Mayor who can and has given his all for the betterment of all who live here. Being Mayor is not an easy job and I thank you for your dedication!
Sincerely
The Rev. Norma Teigen (deacon)
March 21, 2007 at 3:20 pm |
Hi Mike,
First I would like to second what Rev. Norma Teigen wrote on Mar 21. She could not have said it any better. Thank you for your outstanding work and commitment.
Second, I would like to say that I appreciate the updates you give. It is good to be informed.
Third, I like your quote “Living in the North and Loving It”
Fourth, just want you to know we are praying for you.
God blessing you and your work.
You are much appreciated,
Pastor Dave
March 21, 2007 at 10:55 pm |
Mike, you are doing a job that many others can only dream of doing. We have needed a person of your caliber for a long time. I do hope you can stand the roadblocks that arise from time to time and know that the majority of We, The People who elected you are behind you all the way. You are not alone. Call on us if you need support. It was an honor to serve you and Silvia at the Brunch in Shillington. Keep up the good work!
Bob Barber
March 22, 2007 at 12:09 pm |
Hi Mike
Born leaders are hard to find as they often lead in a very quiet way. your style is different and we can see that you do love the time you spend with the people. it is obvious that your values permeates your actions.
Remember that while you work so hard the Lord is looking down on you and HE might have some special plan for you , and He does work in wonderful and mysterious ways.
the struggles of community members you as your struggles touch them all. There are no place for confort zone when you lead and when there is work to be done. Keep the course. There are good people in this Community well worth a bit of hard work , tears and frustration.
Count on our support and ask for help from them all .
therese
March 22, 2007 at 10:46 pm |
Mike What are you doing.Don’t give up rome wasn’t built in a day and nor will blackriver matheson
March 23, 2007 at 12:45 am |
Mike I obviously didn’t vote for you because my wife was one of your opponents ,both who you soundly beat to become MY mayor. I was impressed by your vision for the community and still am. I am disappointed at the recent course of events you don’t need petitions to stay in office you ARE the elected mayor of the community. Frustration is the curse with most visionaries. Take the advice of the Old Bull! Who walked down the hill and danced with all the cows. I think if you take that approach with your goals you will meet them with success.
March 23, 2007 at 3:04 pm |
Dear Mike,
I am writing to thank you for the excellent service we have received in the community of Wavell since you have become our mayor. We have been ignored for a very long time and had almost given up hope for any improvements. It is so nice to have a mayor that listens to your problems, small as they may seem at times, and actually takes action to eliminate them. You represent us in a dignified and professional manner and make us proud to be a part of Black River- Matheson. I have been an active volunteer in this township for over 25 years and know how many people in this township are dedicated to its improvement and are thrilled to have a mayor that is as enthusiastic as they are. Changes can be frightening to those who prefer to leave things as they are, but once they see that changes can be a good thing, things will turn around. We really hope you reconsider resigning from your position, difficult as it might seem at present. Our township is full of good people who want the best for the community and know you do too.
March 24, 2007 at 8:29 pm |
Hi Mike;
Even though I do not live in Black-River Matheson, I was raised there and still have family there. One day we hope to return there as well. I would love to have something there to return to!
I’ve kept up with the happenings through your blog here, newspapers , and through family there.
I think you are the eptiome of what a “Mayor” should be! You have been doing an amazing amount of promotional work for Black-River Matheson itself, as well as for it’s people.
You have outdone anyone else that I can recall, by trying to include ALL segments of society at every level and talk to them! This action alone speaks very clearly as to your intentions for the community. All “good” actions I might add!
In short I would like to say, I love home; and I pray that home will still be there one day so that we may return.
Best Regards!