Council Imformation
Terms on Woolwich Council 2014 – 2022
Woolwich Township, comprised of larger and smaller communities, is truly a unique place with both a rich heritage and bright future.
Representing Ward 3, I want to bring focus and equality to the smaller communities. For example, the 1985 Bloomingdale Community Centre still does not have a paved parking lot. Beyond Ward 3, I want to ensure Woolwich Township does not spend beyond our means, while maintaining current service levels. We must plan carefully for the future to ensure we don’t outrun our spending dollars.
The responsibilities of operating a family school bus business in the past did not allow extra time for local politics. Semi-retired, I now have the time and business leadership experience to offer.
As a new voice to council, I would listen and consult carefully and then move forward to implement clear decisions.
Decisions made at the local level of government have the greatest impact in our daily lives. As your representative, my job will be to make reasoned decisions and bring about thoughtful problem solving on your behalf.
August 22, 2022 Council Meeting Media Release
I’m sure each one of us wishes we had the opportunity of a do-over. I know after reflecting over the past couple of days since the August 22 Woolwich Council Meeting that is the case for me.
I have been criticized for my silence. I have been accused of a number of things since Monday evening but I can live with that because you’re right.
I agree totally with what Councillor McMillan so eloquently said! I knew I couldn’t have said it any better however I should have at least stated my agreement publicly similar to what Councillor Redekop did. We are a welcoming community and I feel I am welcoming as well.
I have very close friends that are part of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. I never meant to be silent for those friends and anyone else in the Township. I realize I should have said something at the time and for that I am truly sorry.
I was going to give some reasons for not speaking but that feels more like excuses and I’m not sure how helpful that would be.
I did support having staff look at different locations for a rainbow crossing in Elmira and I will continue to support that as long as I hold office.
August 22, 2022 Council Meeting Media Release
I’m sure each one of us wishes we had the opportunity of a do-over. I know after reflecting over the past couple of days since the August 22 Woolwich Council Meeting that is the case for me.
I have been criticized for my silence. I have been accused of a number of things since Monday evening but I can live with that because you’re right.
I agree totally with what Councillor McMillan so eloquently said! I knew I couldn’t have said it any better however I should have at least stated my agreement publicly similar to what Councillor Redekop did. We are a welcoming community and I feel I am welcoming as well.
I have very close friends that are part of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. I never meant to be silent for those friends and anyone else in the Township. I realize I should have said something at the time and for that I am truly sorry.
I was going to give some reasons for not speaking but that feels more like excuses and I’m not sure how helpful that would be.
I did support having staff look at different locations for a rainbow crossing in Elmira and I will continue to support that as long as I hold office.
Larry Shantz
Woolwich Councillor Ward 3
Final Decision Election 2022
Media Release | Aug 3, 2022
After sitting on the proverbial fence for some time, and with much discernment, I have finally made the decision not to seek re-election for Woolwich Township Council (Ward 3 Councillor) in the 2022 Municipal election. This was a difficult decision.
It has been a privilege and an honour and I have truly enjoyed my time serving the Woolwich community, constituents and businesses in this capacity. I am proud of some of my accomplishments: spearheaded the free community bus in Elmira (thanks to Mayor Sandy Shantz for convincing Regional Council to allow it to continue), initiated the new top soil standard, finding a solution for West Montrose river access, parking lot paving at the Bloomingdale Community Centre, advocated for a new Fire Station in Maryhill, some behind the scenes improvement at the Breslau Memorial Park, to name a few.
While the past eight years have not been without stress, I can unequivocally say I have never regretted the decision to step into uncharted (political) waters. It was a steep learning curve, and the learning has never stopped.
If I could be so bold as to pass on some unsolicited advice to the incoming elected Council: the time preparing for meetings is time well spent; you will not necessarily agree with every decision made, but at the end of the day support the decision that has been made. Finally, debating is healthy, but do so with civility and respect for your Council colleagues and staff, the Council Chambers and the position to which you were elected. Political leadership includes being a good role model.
I would like to thank my council colleagues, the Woolwich Township staff and administration for their support over the past eight years. I sincerely wish the new council-elect of October 24, 2022 the very best in the deliberations and decisions that await you.
And to everyone, everywhere: Please, stop speeding!
Submitted by Larry Shantz
Woolwich Township Councillor (Ward 3)