Perry seeks re-election with focus on affordability, infrastructure, constituent service

Since he was elected Ward 3 councillor in 2022, Mike Perry says his favourite part of the job has been building relationships with his constituents and helping them resolve issues – and says that desire to help people was what led him into municipal politics. 

“Building relationships is always so important to me; we need that more in political work these days,” Perry told Kawartha Lakes Weekly. “The times that are my favourite are when I can actually make a difference and help someone with the issue they’ve brought forward.” 

Perry said his desire to serve the community and have a “real, direct impact” on improving Ward 3 is why he’s running for re-election on Oct. 26. 

A lifelong resident of Fenelon Falls, Perry is a lawyer and social worker by profession and serves as executive director of the City of Kawartha Lakes Family Health Team. 

Perry said listening to residents is the most important part of his role as councillor, noting that he has been knocking on doors throughout Ward 3 every year, not just during election campaigns. 

“There are a lot of issues facing Ward 3, which is one of the reasons I am running again,” he said. He points to infrastructure issues and says there are several major projects coming over the next few years. 

That includes getting more roads repaired, as well as preparing for a new wastewater treatment plant, repairing the bridge in Fenelon Falls and potentially building a second crossing. 

He also pointed to a proposed bypass north of Fenelon Falls that would improve connections for people travelling through the area. 

“Those are all in the next few years, and they are coming up fast,” Perry said. 

Asked what he thinks is the biggest issue facing Kawartha Lakes residents, Perry doesn’t skip a beat. 

“Affordability and cost of living,” he said. 

Perry said he has pushed for cost-cutting measures at the council table and closely examined the budget to find ways to keep costs down. 

He has also brought forward motions to encourage the city to buy goods and services locally, saying that keeps tax dollars circulating in the community and supports local businesses and jobs.

Improving public transport is another important issue, Perry said, adding that extending bus service to rural areas and establishing a connection to GO Transit would help keep transportation affordable for residents outside Lindsay. 

He said local survey data shows affordable and public transit are seen as important ways for residents to maintain employment, but underscored that any expansion would have to be costed out carefully. 

Perry said his approach to the job comes down to two priorities: putting people first and putting in the work. 

“I always wake up to do my best for my constituents, and I will always treat everyone with kindness and respect – like a neighbour, not just a vote,” he said.