With the nomination period for the October 26 municipal election having closed on August 21, Haliburton County voters are looking for answers from the now-certified candidates for council.

Residents of the four municipalities that form Haliburton County — Township of Algonquin Highlands, Municipality of Dysart et al, Municipality of Highlands East, and Township of Minden Hills — will be voting for members of their lower-tier councils whose leadership makes up the membership of county council.

In this multi-part series, kawarthaNOW is publishing responses from candidates in each municipality to the question “Why are you running for council and what makes you a unique candidate?” Stories in the series, presented by municipality, will be updated as required to include candidate responses received after initial publication.

Located in southwestern Haliburton County and the seat of the county, the Township of Minden Hills is a rural municipality with a population of around 7,000 permanent residents and up to 16,000 seasonal residents. The village of Minden is the primary residential and commercial centre of the township, with smaller communities including Carnarvon, Gelert, Ingoldsby, Irondale, Lochlin, Miners Bay, and Moore Falls.

The council for the Township of Minden Hills is comprised of a mayor, deputy mayor, and five councillors, with one elected at large, two representing Ward 1 (former Townships of Anson, Hindon, and Minden), one representing Ward 2 (former Township of Lutterworth), and one respresenting Ward 3 (former Township of Snowdon).

Incumbent members seeking re-election are mayor Bob Carter, with incumbent Ward 2 councillor Pam Sayne and incumbent councillor at large Tammy McKelvey both challenging Carter for the mayor’s seat. Incumbent Ward 1 councillor Shirley Johannessen is running again for her seat, while incumbent Ward 1 councillor Ivan Inghram is running for deputy mayor. Incumbent Ward 3 councillor Bob Sisson is running for councillor at-large. Incumbent deputy mayor Lisa Schell did not run for re-election.

New candidates include Pat Kitcheman running for mayor, Richard Bradley for deputy mayor, Ron Nesbitt for councillor at large, Dan Garbutt, Joe McManamy, and Keith Moore for Ward 1 councillor, Brad Griffin, Stephen Hertel, and John McNeil for Ward 2 councillor, and Jeff Hancock and Lisa Mercer for Ward 3 councillor.

Mayor

Bob Carter (incumbent)

kawarthaNOW did not receive a response prior to publication. This story will be updated with any response provided.

Pat Kitcheman

I’m running for mayor in Minden because frankly, I’m sick of short sighted decisions and our town council operating in the same direction and attitude that never changes. There is a lot of discontentment among residents with our town council. Within the community of Haliburton county, Minden Hills seems to be the municipality that can’t get anything right. If Mindens desire for change is true, it’s looking like we could get an entire new council. I think I stand out as a clear choice for change . There is a momentum here that I haven’t seen before. We are at a point in time that we need to look at challenges with a different perspective and mindset. We need to start doing things differently , and if different outcomes are our goal, an entire change in leadership is necessary. I AM the unique candidate running for mayor. I have no municipal experience, but I have lots of practical, real-world and life experience. I don’t view experience in an outdated and unchanging municipal way of thinking as an asset in this election. It’s 2026, and we need to stop acting like it’s 2001 in how we do things. The world is changing, and we need to change with it or be left in its dust.

Tammy McKelvey

My name is Tammy McKelvey and I am running for the position of Mayor for the Township of Minden Hills.

I enjoyed a 40-year career in municipal administration and finance and was the first CAO for the newly amalgamated Township of Minden Hills in 2001. I later served as CAO for the Municipality of Dysart et al in Haliburton and retired in 2020 from my position as Treasurer/Deputy Clerk for the Township of Algonquin Highlands.

I am currently serving as Councillor at Large for Minden Hills and a member of the County of Haliburton Land Division Committee. I have served with dedication, integrity and a strong commitment to the taxpayers.

I am dedicated to using my knowledge and experience to serve our community. I come prepared to every meeting, thoroughly reviewing reports and researching issues before decisions are made.

I will be a strong Mayor, without Strong Mayor Powers, encouraging a collaborative approach to decision-making with all of Council. Council working together ensures the best decisions in the interest of the taxpayers.

I bring practical experience, sound judgment, and strong financial management skills to both the Municipal and County Council table. My experience during the amalgamation in 2001 will provide valuable insight as Haliburton County undertakes its Governance and Sustainability Review.

I intend to hold Town Hall sessions to provide opportunities for the public to engage with Council, in an informal setting, to hear the issues of the ratepayers firsthand.

I will be a MAYOR FOR THE PEOPLE!

Pam Sayne

I am running for Mayor because I care about Minden Hills, my community, and believe our municipality needs steady, accountable leadership that listens first, respects democratic process, and turns community priorities into practical action. Our community faces real challenges: maintaining roads and infrastructure, protecting lakes and natural assets, supporting attainable housing, improving health care access, developing public transportation, expanding broadband, and creating opportunities for residents and local businesses (not roadblocks). As a long-time resident, seasonal property owner, and a Ward 2 Councillor for the last 12 years, I understand both the everyday concerns of residents and the broader pressures facing rural municipalities. What makes me a unique candidate is the breadth of experience I bring to the role. My lifetime commitment to healthy communities includes decades of committee and board service, business ownership, property management, community consultation, environmental and water protection, and eight years on the Rural Ontario Municipal Association Board advocating for a stronger rural voice. My doctoral work focused on housing and the environment, giving me a research-based understanding of issues that matter here. Many benefited from my grounded academic work developing their own leadership abilities. I know how to connect local needs to county, provincial, and federal decision-makers. I offer collaborative, informed leadership, committed to protecting what makes Minden Hills special while helping our community thrive. I am the candidate that will, with your support, build a stronger, resilient community.

Deputy Mayor

Ivan Ingram

I’m running for Council to continue serving the community I’ve called home for most of my life. What makes me unique is my 31 years of hands-on municipal experience, four years on Council, and deep understanding of the people and challenges of Minden Hills.

Richard Bradley

My name is Richard Bradley. I am a candidate for Deputy Mayor of Minden Hills. When I first received my nomination papers, which require 25 endorsing signatures, I invited all four of the candidates for Mayor to sign them. I am proud to have received three of those four signatures. I am committed to working with whoever is elected the Mayor of Minden Hills for the improvement of Minden Hills and the County of Haliburton. Locally I have advocated to Save Our Service Ontario, the Daycare Centre, The Frost centre and more recently took on a leadership role in the campaign to try and Save The Minden Emergency Department. The Minden Emergency campaign started from the grassroots of this community and grew to a story that made national headlines. I have been married for 40 years to my wife Sandra: we have four adult children and two grandchildren. I retired from a career in labour relations in 2020. My family first spent many summers visiting the Minden area before purchasing land and building in 1954. We moved to Minden from Toronto in 2001 because we wanted to raise our children here, a decision we have never regretted. In my work I was required to negotiate and interpret contract language as well as various legislation; a transferable skill to that will help me if I am fortunate enough to be elected as your Deputy Mayor. I have served on the Minden Cemetery Committee which moved ahead with the installation of Columbaria in both the Minden and 12 Mile Lake Cemeteries. My work included a variety of advocacy related work, mediation, alternate dispute resolution and negotiation. I hope to continue to apply these skills on the Minden and County Councils working with individuals and groups that wish to bring issues forward that are within the purview of the Municipality or County. When and if such issues need to be addressed with a Ministry of the Province or Federal Government I hope to share ideas and strategies to help those goals along in the process and provide my voice to advocate when it is requested and to the best of my abilities.

Councillor at Large

Ron Nesbitt

I was councillor at large for 8 yrs then my wife got sick and passed after almost 57yrs of marriage I stepped back for 4 yrs to get grounded again I love my town I was born in Haliburton but love Minden I’m not liking what’s going on in Minden as our town is not where it should be or what it could be so I decided to see if I can bring it back to where it should be I’ve been on a few projects that’s has made a differents in Minden area I’m a lions club member plus for 8yrs I donated to the food bank and the heat bank which I’ll be doing again if elected I’m a 7dan black belt and help kids to learn self worth I’m very easy to talk too and always get back to any and all questions there are a lot of changes that need to be addressed to keep taxes down and services up.

Bob Sisson

My name is Bob Sisson and I currently sit on council for Minden Hills, representing Ward 3. I am hoping to win the seat as Councillor at Large this coming election. Minden has been home to me most of my life, I was born and raised here. Together, with my wife, we carry on the legacy of the family farm. We have raised our children here, and now are lucky enough to watch our grandchildren grow up here as well. Our adult children all live and work in this area.

I have had 10 years’ experience on Council in Minden Hills. I believe that my knowledge gained over the years is a great asset to the ratepayers. I’m a good listener, problem solver and truly care about the future of our community. I believe in using common sense in decision making and working together as a team to find solutions.

I would like to see projects completed that have been started this council. I believe in democracy, transparency and accountability.

Let me be your voice, every vote matters!

Ward 1 (formerly Anson, Hindon, and Minden)

Dan Garbutt

I am running for council because I care deeply about our community and want to be part of making it better. As a lifelong member of Minden, I have a strong connection to this community and want to see it thrive.

I bring a lot of business experience and a practical, common-sense approach to problem solving. I understand the importance of good management, accountability, communication and making decisions that provide value for our residents.

There are areas that need attention, including our planning department and our roads. I want to work toward improving how our municipality operates and finding practical solutions to the challenges we face.

I also want to help bring our community closer together. I believe council should listen to residents, businesses and seasonal residents and make decisions that reflect the needs and priorities of the people we represent.

What makes me unique is my combination of business experience, community roots and a genuine passion for Minden Hills. I’m not running just to have a seat at the table — I want to listen, work with people and help get things moving in the right direction.

Shirley Johannssen (incumbent)

I am seeking re-election as Ward 1 Councillor because I genuinely care about Minden Hills, and the future of our community.

Over the past four years, serving on Council has been a privilege, a responsibility, and an incredible learning experience. I have gained firsthand knowledge of municipal government, the challenges we face, and the importance of making informed decisions that will shape our future.

What sets me apart is the experience I bring to the Council table, combined with my genuine commitment to being accessible, approachable, and involved in our community.

I believe good governance means being prepared, asking questions, listening to different perspectives, and having the confidence to speak up, even when it is not easy.

The Bobcaygeon Road cell tower was one of those challenging issues. I spent approximately eight months listening to concerned residents and understanding their perspectives. Council ultimately did not support the proposal. Although opinions differed and discussions continued afterward, I stood by my decision based on the information available at that time. I believe in respecting the democratic process and being accountable for the decisions we make.

My support for the proposed crosswalk is another example of my willingness to take a position on an issue I believe is important. I understand the concerns surrounding municipal spending, but I also believe pedestrian safety and accessibility are important investments in our community.

Not everyone will agree with every decision, and I respect that. What matters is that decisions are made thoughtfully, fairly, and with the best interests of our municipality in mind.

My commitment extends well beyond Council. Through my involvement with Rotary, local boards, community organizations, and volunteering. I have had the opportunity to work alongside remarkable people who give their time and energy to make Minden Hills a better place. These experiences keep me connected to the community and remind me why public service matters.

Looking ahead, we face important challenges involving aging infrastructure, flooding, financial pressures, housing, and protecting our lakes and natural environment. We must approach these challenges with responsible planning, careful spending and meaningful public engagement.

As conversations about the future of municipal governance continue, I also believe it is important that we protect the identity and character of our individual communities.

I am a wife, a mother of two grown children, a volunteer, and a proud member of this community. These are the parts of my life that keep me grounded and remind me that the decisions made at the Council table affect real people, families, and neighbours.

Four years on Council have made me a stronger, more informed Councillor. I have learned that there is always more to understand, more questions to ask, and different perspectives to consider. I continue to learn because I believe that is part of being an effective representative.

I am not seeking re-election simply to serve another four years. I am seeking re-election because I believe my experience, dedication, and willingness to speak up can continue to make a meaningful difference.

For me, being a Councillor has never been about holding a title. It is about showing up, doing the work, listening to residents, and earning the trust of the people I represent.

I understand the responsibilities of this position; I recognize the challenges ahead, and I am prepared to continue moving Minden Hills forward.

I have listened, I have learned. And I have stood up for what I believe is right. Four years of experience have prepared me to continue representing the people of Ward 1 with confidence, dedication, and a genuine commitment to our community.

My promise remains the same: I will be accessible, I will listen, I will ask questions , and I will continue to be your voice at the Council table.

Joe McManamy

kawarthaNOW did not receive a response prior to publication. This story will be updated with any response provided.

Keith Moore

First and foremost, I would like to see future growth for Minden both in tourism and in commercial enterprises.

To develop stronger employment opportunities for the younger generation who wish to stay within the community, and to attract more young people to raise their families and build a life here.

Secondly, the current policies around the planning and development seem to be somewhat restrictive, thereby hindering the growth within our community. It would be beneficial to develop a friendlier engagement between the constituents and the municipality to work together to streamline the processes to allow future development appropriate to our community.

And thirdly, I would like to grow the community with input from the constituents who live here, and who will be directly affected by council’s decisions. I believe that the people who live in Minden Hills deserve to have a voice in how our community is developed and governed. Let me be that voice.

Minden and Haliburton County have been my home for over 40 years, with the last 20 years living in Minden. I have worked in various fields throughout my life, including being a certified Architectural Designer working both for local businesses and presently as a sole proprietor; being a former part-owner of the Jug City franchises in Minden, Haliburton, Carnarvon with my parents and siblings , Rawn, Brian, Scott; and, a retired senior technician with the TransCanada Pipeline with CET from Seneca. I have worked and interacted with municipal staff, homeowners, various trades workers, customers, and community members for most of my life here in Minden.

I have the experience, knowledge, and expertise to be an asset to the Minden Council both in chambers collaborating on decisions, and as an active member of our community. I wish to give back and be a strong voice for the taxpayer.

Ward 2 (formerly Lutterworth)

Brad Griffin

I have lived in the county for most of my life and for 8 years now in Minden Hills. I have been a self-employed local business owner for over 40 years and now retired. Throughout my career, I have developed a strong understanding of people, the importance of building relationships and the value of following through on commitments. I have volunteered with local organizations and always willing to step up when challenges arise, taking the time to understand the issues, learn the details and find practical solutions. I am a man of my word. I believe in personal accountability, keeping my commitments and the importance of a handshake. If elected, I will bring that same work ethic and sense of responsibility to Minden Hills. I will work collaboratively to make sound, responsible decisions that are in the best interests of our community.

Stephen Hertel

I am running for Ward 2 Councillor because I believe Minden Hills deserves strong, compassionate, accountable leadership that listens to residents, respects their concerns, and works collaboratively to build a community where everyone can thrive.

My vision is simple: Minden Hills should not just be a place to visit, but a place to build a life.

With more than 35 years of experience in law enforcement, municipal public service, customer service, emergency response, and community advocacy, I bring a unique combination of frontline experience, leadership, crisis management, and a genuine understanding of the challenges facing residents.

As a municipal law enforcement officer and volunteer firefighter, I have witnessed firsthand the importance of effective municipal services, responsible decision-making, public safety, and supporting those who serve our communities. My professional background has taught me to remain calm under pressure, listen to different perspectives, make difficult decisions, and stand up for fairness and accountability.

My priorities for Ward 2 and Minden Hills include:

Protecting our lakes and environment: Preserving water quality, protecting shorelines, supporting responsible development, and working with lake associations and residents to safeguard the natural beauty that makes Minden Hills special. As a waterfront resident and lake association member, protecting our environment is both a personal commitment and a community responsibility.

Responsible growth and financial accountability: Supporting thoughtful development, maintaining essential infrastructure, protecting taxpayers, and ensuring municipal spending is transparent, responsible, and focused on community priorities.

Supporting local businesses and economic development: Encouraging year-round economic opportunities, supporting entrepreneurs, attracting investment, and helping create a community where young people and families can build their futures.

Strengthening community services: Advocating for accessible recreation, improved health and mental wellness resources, opportunities for youth and seniors, and exploring the feasibility of facilities such as an indoor community pool.

Public safety and emergency services: Ensuring our firefighters, first responders, and emergency services have the training, equipment, resources, and support necessary to protect our growing community.

Transparency, inclusion, and respectful leadership: Creating a municipal government where residents feel heard, decisions are clearly explained, and everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

What makes me different is not simply my professional experience, but my willingness to listen, ask difficult questions, challenge decisions respectfully when necessary, and work toward practical solutions.

I believe leadership is about service, not status. It requires integrity, compassion, accountability, and the courage to stand up for what is right, even when doing so is difficult.

I also recognize that our permanent residents, seasonal residents, families, seniors, youth and business owners may have different priorities. All deserve meaningful representation and a voice in shaping our future.

I am not running with a personal agenda. I am running because I care deeply about this community, its people, its environment, and the opportunities we can create together.

I want to help build a Minden Hills where our lakes remain healthy, our businesses succeed, our young people have opportunities, our seniors feel supported, and families can afford to live, work, and raise their children.

I am ready to bring my experience, dedication, independence, and commitment to public service to the Council table.

Minden Hills is more than a destination. It is our home, our community, and our future.

I am ready to work for Ward 2 and all of Minden Hills.

John McNeil

I have always wanted to be a council member, I have seen the rise and falls of Minden Hills, I truly believe with my seat and knowledge of the area I could make a difference in making Minden Hills a better place for the future and for the infrastructure of Minden.

Building homes, bring in new businesses, playgrounds and water parks for our children, stop or slow our flooding, building a great waterfront on our river. Rebuilding roads, so much is needed, but it all takes time and money.

I am a man that has helped many of residents from this area and further out, I have listened and it’s my turn to bring action to the table. Working with others gets a greater response, helping others makes a great candidate. That is me.

Ward 3 (formerly Snowdon)

Jeff Hancock

I was born and raised in Irondale, Ward 3 Minden Hills, and attended Archie Stouffer Elementary and Haliburton Highlands Secondary Schools. My engineering career took me across Ontario and around the world, but my roots always brought me back. With retirement approaching, I have returned to Irondale full-time. I want to spend this next chapter giving back to the community that has given me so much. Through my engineering background, I see the role of councillor as an opportunity to help resolve the practical challenges Ward 3 and the larger municipality face. I love this area and am dedicated to improving, protecting, and promoting it. Please Vote Jeff Hancock for Councillor of Ward 3, Minden Hills.

Lisa Mercer

I am running for council because I believe our community deserves a councillor who listens to residents, understands our community and is willing to stand up for local priorities. I want to help ensure that decisions are made with taxpayers in mind and that we remain responsible with municipal spending.

What makes me unique is my combination of previous municipal experience and many years of living, working and raising a family here. I served on Lutterworth Council from 1985 to 2000, giving me firsthand experience in municipal decision making and working with residents on local issues. I have also owned and operated a successful title search company and have been a local Real Estate Broker since 2009.

I have lived in Snowdon for 27 years. I am running because I believe my experience, common sense and willingness to listen can make a positive difference.

kawarthaNOW has reproduced written responses from candidates verbatim. Any errors, factual or otherwise, or any use of AI-generated content originate with the candidate.