Dave Besley
Candidate – Melancthon Township
As a lifelong farmer and local resident with a vested interest in the municipality where I work and live, I have once again put my name forward to run for Melancthon Township Council, this term for the position of Deputy Mayor.
The past four years representing the citizens of Melancthon as Councillor have been immensely rewarding and enlightening, where I served on several Committees, including the Roads, Police Services, Shelburne Library, and the newly formed North Dufferin Community Centre Board of Management.
How your tax dollars are being spent, is a primary concern for all Ratepayers and Residents, and the maintenance and upkeep of our roads and bridges is the Township’s largest capital expenditure. With more kilometres of road, and a smaller tax base than most municipalities, how we proceed with road upgrades is a concern facing council, and a public consultation process would give residents the opportunity to provide their elected officials with direction going forward.
I will spend the next several weeks travelling around the township meeting residents, and asking for their opinions and input on the future of our township.
Agriculture is the heartbeat driving our community, and I believe my passion for farming and its practices is an important perspective as Melancthon grows and moves forward.
My wife and I operate a hog finishing barn, raise Clydesdale horses, beef cattle and sheep here; and we sell property in the community as real estate sales representatives.
I milked cows and cash cropped with my brother for 30 years in neighbouring Amaranth Township, but our roots run deep in Melancthon. My grandfather farmed on the 4th Line SW, and my father, uncles and aunt were born and raised just down the road from where we now live.
I have a history of service in the community and beyond, having served on the following organizations; a Life Member and Past President of the Shelburne Fair Board, a Past President of the Dufferin County Holstein Club, a 4-H Club Leader for 20 years, President of the Ontario Clydesdale Club and Chairman and President of United Breeders and GenCor.
I have enjoyed the past term as a Melancthon Councillor and I ask for your support in continuing the work as Deputy Mayor for another four years. I bring knowledge, experience and a commitment to the community, and ask for your vote on October 22nd.
Thank you.
Phone: (519) 373-1227