Why did you decide to run for council?

I believe a healthy community, in spirit, has multiple voices at the table. The rural charm, environment, and appeal are drawing many people to East Ferris, particularity young families. We need to preserve the legacies of the past and include new voices and experiences to the future. East Ferris needs to become more than just a place to live, but a place where people want to come visit.

What innovative projects would enhance life in your community?

I'd like to see festivals and events that draw people from North Bay, Powassan, Callander and Bonfield to East Ferris.

What do you think are the greatest challenges your city faces?

East Ferris is a tight knit community that thrives on historical, existing, deep family connections. I am able to see the opportunities this provides for those who've lived here, as well as the gaps it creates for anyone new to the area. I see it as a community in transition. Nuzzled between other municipalities, East Ferris is becoming a place to live, not necessarily a place to visit. We need to put ourselves on the map, become an innovative and exciting community to visit, and realize that there is an upward swing of new families moving to the area.

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?

Social media is the easiest, most convenient way to include constituents in a conversation. Keeping people informed and engaging in a two-way conversation. Then conversations with the public are met with a willingness to engage and less suspicion and frustration of feeling out of the loop. We need to be asking questions on social media, not just pushing information out.

What is your favourite thing to do in your city?

I walk. Every single day I walk kilometers throughout the municipality, deep in the forest, with my Chesapeake Bay Retriever named Agatha. I have a few chickens, operate a rural yoga studio, and spend an incredible amount of time making tracks throughout East Ferris. It's hard to beat this place.

Where can people find you?

@erika4council - on Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter.

Are you a woman who is running for council or school board trustee in Northern Ontario, and would like to be featured on our blog? Let us know.