Donnalee Morettin is running for Councillor At Large in Thunder Bay.
On the surface, Donnalee Morettin (she/her) is an active, busy mother of two teenage daughters Isabella and Angelina. With her husband Dennis by her side, she is able to become the woman she has always wanted to be. Her career in the Hospitality Industry spans thirty years, but that is only the beginning. Donnalee has successfully been involved and helped organize and present world, national, and locally run events over the past 25 years. Her involvement with the Chamber of Commerce, Waterfront District BIA, and various organizations has given her the ability to adapt well to any situation. Motivation is key in Donnalee’s world, and running for council is her way to help ensure our community is well-placed moving forward.
Why are you running for this position?
I want to inspire the citizens of Thunder Bay to get involved as they can everyone and anyone can make a difference, but we must come together as a community to do it.
I want to encourage the community to get involved, and to provide a voice to those who may be discouraged from speaking up.
I am motivated to run for council to help ensure our community is well placed to move forward.
I love people! I know that the future of Thunder Bay depends on unity and planning, I want to be part of it.
What innovative projects would enhance life in your municipality?
- Sportsplex for all youth wanting to be active all year round.
- Help for those who are homeless.
- future of Thunder Bay - unity
If you received a $1 million grant to use for your municipality any way you wanted, what would you do with it?
That question could only be answered with the help of everyone involved...the city!
What do you think are the greatest challenges your municipality faces?
Unity. I feel it is of the upmost importance that we need a game plan. We need the councillors, mayor and city administration dealing with challenges and opportunities together, doing what is best for the future of Thunder Bay.
Other than the official communication methods (minutes, municipal notes), how else will you reach out to your constituents to involve them in the decision making process?
I believe that social media is a great tool to be used in getting people involved. But the real way is hard work. I want to do this the old fashioned way: talking to them! Hard work, blood, sweat & tears… (and maybe some honest networking).
What is your favourite thing to do in your municipality?
I love the conservation areas and going for walks! The Marina and watching the boats is near and dear to my heart.
Why do you think it’s important for women to be represented in civic leadership, including on committees, boards and municipal councils?
Women bring a lot to the table.We have very different life experiences that lead to different priorities and needs. I read once, "Girls and women have a right to engage in civil society, vote in elections, be elected to government office, serve on boards, and make their voices heard in any process that will ultimately affect them, their families, and their communities." Which I agree wholeheartedly.
What does a ‘feminist city’ mean to you?
Feminism, by definition, is the belief that men and women should have equal rights and opportunities. I truly believe that each city needs to provide this for each member of their community.
Please identify the most critical policy, project, or initiative in your platform that addresses systemic barriers faced by women in your municipality, and describe why:
I would need more time, and information on each of systemic barriers facing not only women but a community as well.
Social Media Handles
Where can people find you?
I'll keep you posted! But mostly on my Facebook page.
