Editor's note: OrilliaMatters has asked council candidates in neighbouring Oro-Medonte, Ramara and Severn townships to provide a synopsis of why they are running in the Oct. 24 municipal election. The following was submitted by Keith Bell, who is running as a candidate as deputy mayor of Ramara Township. For more election coverage — including candidate profiles and other election news — visit our 2022 municipal election page by clicking here.
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I was born and raised in Orillia prior to our family moving to a farm outside of Warminster in Medonte township where we operated a dairy farm. In 2015, I moved Washago area with my wife, son and daughter.
In my work history I have managed waste and recycling companies. Some that were smaller family-owned operations to larger, publicly-traded corporations. In both settings I worked very closely with several municipalities.
I have also spent many years volunteering for different organizations including The Community Foundation of Orillia & Area, coaching for Mariposa Wrestling Club and the Huronia Stallions Football, founder of the Orillia Dragon Boat Festival, organized the first Snowbird Airshow in Orillia and was a member of the Orillia Kinsmen Club for several years. Currently I am the vice president of the Orillia Slo-Pitch League.
I intend to bring my experiences and expertise to help Ramara Township continue to grow and prosper while protecting the history and agriculture in our beautiful township.
There are several improvements I would like to see within our township and I believe I can assist with the ongoing challenges all municipalities are struggling with including reliable internet, road improvements and accessibility for our aging population.
