Thanks for your support!

Thank you Stratford! So appreciate your support. Your input and ideas energized this campaign. Keep the conversation going, share your thoughts here, Facebook, Twitter or at kerry.mcmanus@hotmail.com

http://www.stratfordcanada.ca/en/elections/resources/Election-Results2014-Official.pdf

Endorsement by Karen Schulman Dupuis

Kerry McManus is one of the most conscientious people I've ever had the pleasure to work alongside.

While she actively listens to all sides of an issue, she thoroughly researches the subject matter to ensure that she has a good understanding before rendering a decision, regardless of whether or not the impact is large or small.

Kerry brings a great sense of social accountability, passion and justice to her work as an educator, a representative of the people in her community and as an activist. She empowers her students, engages her constituents and enlightens those around her with her innate intelligence, and her breadth of knowledge and creativity.

I look forward to watching Kerry's career and the positive impact that she'll ignite for years to come

Endorsement by Stewart Reynolds

Kerry McManus wears her heart on her sleeve. She wants the world to be a better place and, unlike most of us, is motivated to do something about it.

Kerry welcomes and encourages conversation and dialogue. She is one those rare breeds of educators and politicians who is open about her desire to learn more about a subject and seek differing perspectives.

I wholeheartedly recommend Kerry McManus for any task that Kerry deems worthy of her remarkable intellect and abilities.

Endorsement by Phil Buxton

Kerry always brings dedication, integrity, curiosity, determination, preparedness and consideration in her role as City Councillor.

Endorsement by Geoff Love

I have known and worked with Kerry on several issues and committees since moving to stratford 5 years ago.I am impressed by her knowledge and commitment to issues that matter in our community and by her integrity in all that she does. She is a positive, collaborative leader in our community and I fully recommend and endorse her candidacy to run again for city council.

Endorsement by Lisa Wilde

Kerry is the kind of city counsellor that is well informed about all the issues her city is facing. She is in touch with what's happening and genuinely cares about her constituents and their situations.

Endorsement by Susan Moffatt

Kerry's love for and commitment to the City of Stratford makes her a top pick to represent the people of this city on Council for another term. I am grateful that she is taking up the challenge for another round. I will be happily voting for Kerry.

Endorsement from Sherry Mason

Kerry makes sure she understands an issue thoroughly before voting or making recommendations. If she doesn't know something, she is not afraid to ask questions! She seeks advice and input from city staff, specialists, fellow councillors, and the citizens of Stratford.

Endorsement from Terry Hastings

Kerry is a highly committed individual with a strong sense of justice for those in need within our community. Her willingness to be a proactive voice for those who have little voice within society is an essential quality of her political integrity.

Endorsement from Helen Orr

Kerry is a dedicated educator and advocate for the environment and well-rounded citizens in our community. She is actively engaged in learning and improving; she listens and speaks up for what she believes in.

Endorsement from Rena Spevack

Kerry is passionately committed to Stratford and all those who live or visit here. She has strong values but is always pragmatic when working with city counsellors and staff. She is happy to hear from her constituents regardless of their stand on issues.

Endorsement from Carol Mitchell

Kerry is a well informed, professional and hard working city councillor. Keep up the great work Kerry!

Endorsement from Jenn Mezei

Kerry is an inspirational and determined member of the Stratford community who pours her efforts into the most worthy causes. I am particularly grateful for the example she has set in her work surrounding environmental issues. She is a leader on many fronts and we are lucky to have such a compassionate ambassador for the city.

Endorsement from Tim Veal

Kerry brings a whole new approach to Stratford City Council, engaging members of her community on topics, and keeping them informed with relevant information. Her leadership and decision making is tempered by a very thoughtful and sober approach - one of those rare people who can put their own bias aside to consider another persons perspective. It has been such a pleasure working together with Kerry on topics such as Energy and Bicycling Transportation issues in Stratford; I can't imagine how she finds the time! I often find a note from Kerry in my inbox... "here's something you might be interested in", or "what are your thoughts on this issue".... this is the true role of a councillor: provide leadership and guidance, and facilitate communication between council and the community. Thirty-thousand people in this town - and the one person I would call on with a community issue is Kerry McManus.

Endorsement from Elizabeth Anderson

For the past four years, Kerry has proved to be an outstanding member of Stratford City Council. She is approachable, often initiating community conversation with diverse subsets of the population. She uses community feedback and information gleaned from city staff to make informed decisions that benefit the residents of Stratford. Her knowledge of legislation and budgetary details are precise and she balances her approach to municipal matters with fiscal, social, and environmental considerations. Her leadership and innovation are commendable.

Endorsement from Irene Miller

I've know Kerry for about 3 years now, during which time she was a hard working, results oriented Councillor at City of Stratford as well as a respected high school teacher and librarian. She carried out all 3 jobs with a sense of responsibility and a great sense of humour. She is deeply committed to making Stratford even more livable and enjoyable by the whole community. Kerry is a great listener, very approachable and empathetic; and she has that rare knack of explaining the complex machinations of City Hall while working with both sides of any discussion.

Endorsement from Dr. Miriam Mann

I have known Kerry for the past 3 years though conversations regarding caring for certain patients in the ED and the importance of the Local Comm.Food C. Kerry is compassionate, thoughtful, articulate and dedicated. She seeks out information when dealing with a problem so that she can make and informed decision. She shows great dedication and enthusiasm for our community.

Endorsement from Steve Sauder

Kerry is a pleasure to work with on environmental projects. Kerry knows how to connect with the right people to get positive results. Thanks for being a great project partner!

Endorsement from Jane McKelvie

I am very pleased to support Kerry as she seeks another term on Stratford City Council.

Kerry is a dedicated and effective councillor who is strongly committed to this city and its citizens. She is also a passionate and hardworking advocate for our environment who leads by example.

Endorsement from Nadine Hayes

I've worked with Kerry in a number of capacities, and in each I would say she is prepared, engaged, forward-thinking, balanced, reasonable, and thoughtful. That is what I want in a leader - of our next generation, in our politics, of our community players. I am a fan - strong supporter.

Endorsement from Gary Wreford

Kerry has communicated the many challenges facing the City of Stratford though social media increasing the awareness and participation in important decisions impacting the quality of life in this city.

Endorsement from Ed Pass

Kerry cares enough to engage and listen to other people's points of view, without jumping to conclusions. She encourages others to get involved and get their voices heard. In her thoughtful way, She embodies true democratic principles.

Endorsement from Katey Kneider

Kerry is a person who cares deeply for others. She has strong leadership skills in many areas of her life. When I think of Kerry, the following words come to mind - the environment, politics, education, leader.

Endorsement from Jason Jackson

Kerry is an amazing listener. She works hard for Stratford and, as my councillor, has given me information any time I have asked. She is kind, prompt and very skilled.

Commemorating Stratford's Railway Heritage

Curious about my thoughts on the Cooper Site?

Here is a note I published on Facebook on January 25th, 2014.
I wish Rogers had televised the Finance meeting as the discussion took many turns and is difficult to capture in an article. In the meantime, I would appreciate your input.

First, some context to Tuesday's discussion:
http://bit.ly/1d2iSRS
http://bit.ly/1hWrrTM

Background reports:
http://bit.ly/19Us5km 
http://bit.ly/1axYWflhttp://bit.ly/1boTdTI

My key concern is that we make an informed decision. Here is some of what I'm considering:

Lac-Mégantic
Given the Lac-Mégantic derailment in Quebec on July 4th, 2013, in my estimation, the buffer required between rail and buildings will only increase in the foreseeable future from the standards that were put forward in May 2013.

Here's an article from this week discussing the Transportation Safety Board's conclusions from the disaster: http://bit.ly/1aSr9ex

Heritage
One of the proponents of saving a portion of the structure mentioned the experience of standing in the space. I am not committed to saving a portion or demolishing the entire structure, I just want a plan that aims to honour our heritage, strengthen our future and respect our financial reality.                                                                    


Blank Slate
We don't need a physical blank slate to begin planning, we need a piece of paper or a Facebook note and ideas. This is where you come in. What does Stratford need? What can we afford? Dream a little, be practical, together let's help shape the next chapter of our history.

Note the settings on this note are public. All are welcome to comment. I tagged a range of people who are connected to Stratford and if you share, I may remove your tag and tag someone else to generate more input - it won't be a reflection on your idea(s). One of Stratford's strengths is that we not only have residents who will want to share ideas but that we are blessed to have many who have a great affection for Stratford who may  participate as well.

Endorsement from Valerie O'Flynn

Kerry is a hardworking, dedicated representative on council for the people of Stratford. She has exhibited her desire and ability to represent us on council as a concerned voice for the environment, practical improvements to the city infrastructure, and responsible government that does not waste our tax resources. It would be a real loss to the city if Kerry is not returned to council.

Endorsement from Matthew Maynard

Kerry demonstrates Conscious Leadership with her works and words in community development, planning and with the business of Stratford Council. I most recently accepted Kerry’s invitation to attend Council. I was impressed by her leadership, compassion and understanding brought to the Council. Kerry engages the community through listening, organizing and ensuring she and others are able to make informed conscious decisions.

Campaign Information all in one Place

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Share the link below for details for reading material on my campaign:

Campaign Info all in one Place

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Endorsement from Scott Spillane

Kerry is a remarkably driven and passionate person. I admire her idealism that is tempered with mature pragmatism. To me, Kerry is a person that works well with others, sets goals and gets results.

Endorsement from Cheryl Nickel

Voting McManus makes sense because she listens and follows through.
Cheryl Nickel

Endorsement from David Bean

Thanks for your kind words, David.

It is becoming increasingly difficult in this day and age to find people willing to enter politics, at any level, who come with the genuine goal of public service, with no other agenda. Even rarer, for that person, to have served and shown that they actually "walk the walk". Voting McManus just makes sense! David V Bean 

Endorsement from Martha Holmes

I look for integrity. Kerry McManus has that. Martha Holmes

Labour Council Questions & Kerry's Responses

1. If elected, what are your priorities for our community?

1. My priorities: increasing the effectiveness of transit in Stratford; addressing the infrastructure deficit; developing a plan for the Cooper Site; engaging the community in decision-making and implementing the Bike & Pedestrian Master Plan.

2. How do you view the role of public services in our community? Where do you stand on contracting out, and the privatization of public services?

2. I am thankful that the City of Stratford provides many good jobs. Where expertise or equipment is needed for a short term or where the needs cannot be effectively met by staff due to a range of issues, I support utilizing outside agencies. I am thankful that the City of Stratford's services are being used by adjacent municipalities to provide Household Hazardous Waste services.

3. If elected, what would you do to promote local services and good jobs in our community?

3. I believe that through stronger communication, opportunities will both be developed and highlighted that will allow for business to grow in the City. I will continue to do and to share research that will spark new ideas and approaches. I will work to address infrastructure needs to meet the needs of local business and to help workers to thrive. I will work to see the development of the Cooper site as a key contributor to Stratford's economic development.

4. What would you do to improve the lives of residents in our community?

4. I will continue to work to advance social, environmental and economic goals. I will continue to work at implementing the Housing & Homelessness plan for Perth County. I will continue to work on the Multi-residential composting pilot program with a goal to facilitate neighbourhood
composting. I will work to implement the Bike & Pedestrian Master Plan to encourage our community to realize the benefits both personally and as a whole of active transportation. I will continue to research opportunities and engage diverse stakeholders in conversations on what would benefit Stratford. I will be a voice addressing both short and long term goals in the budget process. I will work to build a plan on the Cooper Site to further drive economic development in the core.

Q & A with Kerry

As election day approaches, I would appreciate knowing what concerns you have or you hear for Stratford. Post your concerns and/or questions. I will share my thoughts and ask you to join in the conversations as they unfold.

When Jeff Heuchert commented that my first term has been characterized by a desire for accountability, it made me reflect. While some hear accountability and picture someone searching for someone missing the mark in their capacity, I see transparency as an invitation for those who care about Stratford to share their ideas and expertise in the decision-making and visioning processes for Stratford. In the words of Helen Keller, "Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much."

I invite you to join me in thinking about Stratford. Identifying our strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. Stretching our perspectives by entertaining divergent views while sharing our own even as they may be evolving.

To my fellow candidates, you are welcome and encouraged to share your thoughts as well. My hope is that we will capitalize on the campaign period and its ability to foster ideas that will shape Council's deliberations in the next year and term.

Thanks for your support!

To all who volunteered to deliver flyers, thank you! Over half of the homes in Stratford received information on my re-election campaign today. Thank you so much for your help and support.

Leaf & Yard Waste Bags Arrive this Week!

Leaf & Yard Waste Signs Arriving this Week. Sign up to order yours

here: http://bit.ly/KerryMcManusLeafYardWasteSigns

Endorsements

Kerry cares enough to engage and listen to other people's points of view, without jumping to conclusions. She encourages others to get involved and get their voices heard. In her thoughtful way, She embodies true democratic principles. Ed Pass (Sales at Energy Controls & Mechanical Services Inc., posted on LinkedIn)

Endorsements

Voting McManus makes sense because she is deeply committed to the environment of this place and its people. Lynda Weston

Voting McManus makes sense because she listens and follows through. Cheryl Nickel

I look for integrity. Kerry McManus has that. Martha Holmes

Voting McManus makes sense because...she has that rare quality: common sense...and so much more. Irene Miller

Voting McManus makes sense because ... she takes the time to listen, and then follows through, for a city she loves. Vicki-Lyn Gatschene

Voting McManus makes sense....integrity, commitment, experience Nanci McFadden Fair

Voting McManus makes sense because of the fact that you are reading this right now. Kerry always finds a way to connect with her community on issues - just the way she's doing on Facebook right now! I want to be involved in the decision making process - not just read about it the next day in the newspaper! McManus makes sense to me. Tim Veal

Voting for McManus makes sense because Kerry is a caring, committed and connected leader with the courage and smarts to do right. Katie Wreford

Voting McManus makes sense because Kerry is smart, works very hard for her community and makes sound wise decisions. Jane Eligh-Feryn

because we want reasoned, thoughtful, courageous leaders. Nadine Hayes

....Kerry McManus listens and questions in a fiscally responsible manner. Susan Young

Voting McManus makes sense because she will research when necessary to understand issues. As an added bonus, she has 4 years of experience; she knows the ropes! Susan Young

Voting McManus makes sense because Kerry is not falsely proud of this beautiful city of Stratford; nor is she falsely humble as a representative of the people who really care about the well-being of a beautiful vibrant community. Kerry truly legitimately cares about Stratford and it's people. She has consistently been pro-active in her approach to embracing and involving the community in all it's most crucial issues. In short, Kerry is the real deal. She is one who truly cares and is willing to invest as much of her life into our wellness as she possibly can. Besides that, she is just a very real and sweet down-to-earth smart person! Kerry has my vote. Period. Here's hoping some other people who are running can take note. Rick Francis

Voting McManus makes sense because she has a solid sensible way of looking at ALL sides of the issue..she has proved herself extremely valuable to our city council in the last term and deseves to keep her seat so she can continue her great work...VOTE McMANUS. Marlene E McNamara

Voting McManus makes sense because she takes the time talk to others and gain as much information as possible before making an informed decision. Miriam Mann

Voting McManus makes sense because in addition to being a knowledgeable, progressive and caring member of council, she shows special leadership in environmental and sustainability matters for the city. Mike Jorna

Kerry McManus makes sense, which saves us $. Sorry for the cheap pun, okay, sorry for the play on words, and the cheap pun. Philomena Hamberg

Voting Kerry McManus makes sense because we need informed, broad, critical thinking on council from people that are open to be engaged, informed and respectful. #StratfordON #getyourvoteon - Karen Schulman Dupuis

Kerry cares enough to engage and listen to other people's points of view, without jumping to conclusions. She encourages others to get involved and get their voices heard. In her thoughtful way, She embodies true democratic principles. Ed Pass (Sales at Energy Controls & Mechanical Services Inc., posted on LinkedIn)

Endorsements

Voting Kerry McManus makes sense because we need informed, broad, critical thinking on council from people that are open to be engaged, informed and respectful. #StratfordON #getyourvoteon - Karen Schulman Dupuis

Thought of the Day

No man was ever wise by chance. ~ Seneca

Thought of the Day

Things start out as hopes and end up as habits. ~ Lillian Hellman, American writer

Thought of the Day

Spoon feeding in the long run teaches us nothing but the shape of the spoon. ~ E.M. Forster, British writer

Thought of the Day

If there is anything in the universe that can't stand discussion, let it crack. ~ Wendell Phillips, American abolitionist

Thought of the Day

Be regular and orderly in your life ... so that you may be violent and original in your work. ~Gustave Flaubert, French writer