Terry Teather, Ward 3, Lincoln 2022

Terry Teather, Ward 3, Lincoln 2022

Lincoln is where I grew up, graduated from Beamsville District Secondary and worked in my early adult life. I was thrilled to return to this beautiful community seven years ago.

The growth and development I saw were welcome but also concerning. Growth can indicate progress, but it must be accompanied by improved infrastructure, local amenities and additional businesses which provide much-needed employment. In Jordan Station, where I was raised, I remember the sign on the border of town which declared ‘Population: 264’. That memory brings nostalgia and apprehension.

Currently, there are five developments proposed or implemented within three kilometers of my home. How we manage projects and development must include addressing community concerns such as increasing height of buildings, elevated noise, lack of parking and the failure to protect recreational facilities. As development and rapid change continues in the name of progress, now is the time when Lincoln council and staff will play an important role.

There are things that the local government in Lincoln can do to ensure our community remains a great place to live. Here are a few:
The town could develop a Municipal Energy Plan that converts heating and cooling systems in government-owned buildings from fossil fuels to a variety of alternative options such as geothermal and heat pumps. These conversions would provide jobs and long-term savings for the municipality.
We need to recognize and consider the benefits of infill housing within existing neighbourhoods. This will require innovative approaches to planning. Meaningful engagement with current and prospective residents around zoning changes and new developments is paramount to ensure transparency and best practices.
We must ensure approved plans for new developments include a significant land allocation for green spaces. New developments contribute to tax revenues, but developers have a role to play in addressing climate change. Developers who arbitrarily remove trees against the wishes of citizens and the local government should be penalized. Actions like these, by developers, negate town mitigation efforts and local residents lose faith in government at all levels.

Council has done a great job promoting Lincoln as a tourist destination as evidenced by the significant increase in traffic on the Q.E.W. and Highway 8. We are blessed to live in a well-known agricultural area where wineries and restaurants continue to contribute significantly to the region. Traffic congestion will be an issue that must continually be addressed to ensure the citizens of Lincoln are not negatively impacted.

I will offer a collaborative and balanced approach to these and other issues by providing responsive and respectful communication with Town staff and residents. I ask for your vote in Ward 3 on Oct. 24th