While the Town of Osler has made many improvements over the past four years, there’s still work to be done, according to Abe Quiring.
The incumbent Mayor of Osler is hoping to earn a second term following the November 9 municipal election.
Quiring has served on Osler council for a total of 11 years, including two terms as a councillor before being elected Mayor in 2016.
He said his first term in the Mayor’s chair has been a learning experience. But it’s also been rewarding in the sense that the town has made significant progress in upgrading its infrastructure.
“We have a brand new fire hall. We’ve updated the water and sewer lines and done some paving,” said Quiring. “And we’re at the point now where we’re very happy with the drainage system. That was always a concern every year.
“So those things have come to fruition after a lot of hard work.”
Quiring said he’s seeking another term as Mayor because he’s passionate about his community and serving residents and businesses.
“I’ve lived in Osler for 25 years, and was born and raised in the area,” he said. “I’ve been here all my life. I like nothing better than being at the council table and serving my community.
“There are some hard decisions that have to be made, but ultimately, we have to do what is best for the community as a whole. It’s not always easy, but it is rewarding.”
Quiring acknowledged many of the community’s streets are in need of work.
“I’d like to see improvements to streets,” said Quiring. “That’s our number one goal. But ultimately, the decision rests with residents because they are ‘local improvements’ that are paid for by homeowners and business owners on each particular street. It’s the ratepayers themselves who make the call.”
Quiring said the town has improved many of its recreation facilities, and he pledged to continue to work with the community to add more amenities as finances permit.
Quiring said Osler’s involvement in the Partnership for Growth (P4G) regional planning group has been beneficial for the town.
“Working with our neighbouring communities to plan for the future is important,” he said. “Osler is a respected voice at the table.”
Quiring vowed to continue working on behalf of ratepayers if elected.
“I have a real passion for this town, and I want a community that everyone can be proud of,” he said.