Geraldine R. Robinson is running for Mayor in Elliot Lake.
Geraldine (she/her) is a veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces with 23 years of service. She has a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Manitoba. She was the first woman to be elected to the Beckwith Township Council. She taught English in South Korea from 2008-2009. She has served on two Economic Development Committees and was the Eastern Ontario Representative to the Ontario Economic Development Corporation.
Why are you running for this position?
I believe in an open and transparent operation of council business The public should be aware of all aspects of council’s decisions, the councillor's opinions, and the arguments for and against the issues. Making decisions behind closed doors must cease. As Mayor, I could ensure that the meetings are open. The urgent need to address the problems of the aging infrastructure of the city. I would have an aggressive policy in support of and attract business to Elliot Lake. I would focus on promoting tourism and creating venues that would increase tourism in Elliot Lake.
What innovative projects would enhance life in your municipality?
Exploiting the majestic view from the Fire Tower. Ensure that municipal buildings are safe. Implement a policy that attracts business, not the current practice of placing roadblocks to new businesses.
If you received a $1 million grant to use for your municipality any way you wanted, what would you do with it?
Use it to improve the roads and infrastructure.
What do you think are the greatest challenges your municipality faces?
Aging infrastructure, shortage of medical personnel, aging population.
Other than the official ways of communicating (minutes, municipal notes), how else will you reach out to your constituents to involve them in the decision making process?
Opening council business to the public not conducting business behind closed doors will cause a greater interest.
What is your favourite thing to do in your municipality?
Enjoying the surrounding beauty of Elliot Lake.
Why do you think it’s important for women to be represented in civic leadership, including on committees, boards and municipal councils?
Women generally have a different approach to municipal affairs and different concerns.
What does a ‘feminist city’ mean to you?
I really do not agree with such a term, since the city should be open to all citizens.
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:
There is generally an "old boys club" attitude in this city that prefers the status quo. If elected, I would definitely face this attitude, I have faced this attitude in the forces and in municipal politics before. It is frustrating but with hard work and a clear vision, a woman can gain respect.
Where can people find you?
There are several candidates meeting scheduled and I plan to canvass door to door.
