Hello, my name is Ernie Margetson, and I am seeking support to be your next Mayor.
I was born in Picton and raised in Prince Edward County, growing up on a farm on Melville Road in Hillier township. After travelling, working away, and university, I returned to Prince Edward County to build my life here. Today I still live with my family in Hillier on the farm that my parents bought nearly 80 years ago. I have built my life here because this will always be home to me.
Hello, my name is Ernie Margetson, and I am seeking support to be your next Mayor.
I was born in Picton and raised in Prince Edward County, growing up on a farm on Melville Road in Hillier township. After travelling, working away, and university, I returned to Prince Edward County to build my life here. Today I still live with my family in Hillier on the farm that my parents bought nearly 80 years ago. I have built my life here because this will always be home to me.
My working background is engineering and architecture. I have more than 35 years experience as a professional engineer working in construction, building design, and project management in both the private and public sectors. I also have an intimate knowledge of the County through my work and interests, with a continuity of understanding of past municipal affairs and issues through being active in the community. I served as the Councillor for Ward 7 from 2019-2022, providing experience and insight regarding the challenges and potential of municipal governance. These are valuable assets that I will bring to my work with councillors, staff teams and the public.
I am a strong believer in protecting our natural and cultural heritage, while ensuring compatible and responsible development that sustains the community without compromising existing residents, or the essential character of the County. I also believe in ensuring Municipal services are delivered in an efficient and effective manner to support the local economy, including small business and agriculture, and ensuring public health and safety.
I am committed to conservation and recognition of the rich heritage we share in the County. In my spare time, I host walking tours and public speeches to share my knowledge and enthusiasm regarding our sense of place. I recognize the importance of supporting our thriving arts community which is part of the fabric of County life. I have worked as a volunteer with many community groups including Quinte Educational Museum, Hillier Hall renovation team, Heritage Advisory Committee, local branch of Architectural Conservancy of Ontario, and Friends of Millennium Trail.
I am running for mayor because I believe my experience, insight and knowledge of Prince Edward County will make a positive contribution to Shire Hall. I see the role of Mayor as a natural progression that builds on my municipal, professional and volunteer experience. I can bring strong leadership to local government along with a proven ability to build consensus. I will play a positive role in community-building alongside our councillors and the people we serve. We have a wealth of engaged, talented, and thoughtful residents, whether recent arrivals or multi-generational, and I am committed to serving all with respect and understanding.
I am proud to be a citizen of the County. I feel truly privileged to have grown up here and continue to live here. I want to protect what we have and make informed reasoned decisions for the future as the needs of the community evolve. You can count on me to hear your ideas and concerns and work hard to advocate for what is best for Prince Edward County.
