First, a bow to anyone who throws their towel into the political arena. You are no longer private property; instead you become a public figure open to the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune. Your decisions are second guessed, your truthfulness questioned, your integrity challenged, your personal past and your present record are the subject of public scrutiny and speculation. And, yes,  it is all in the public interest.

In times past, issues like Swan Lake would be discussed around the campfire, or the knitting circle, or the Town Hall and on the Village Commons. In 2026, the electronic drug of social media can spread a truth or truthiness or outright lie at online speed to millions of people. The discussion and digestion of those issues is muddied at best, but it produced a clear outcome for the Town of Caledon in the 2026 Municipal Elections.

The populace overwhelmingly rejected the campaigns of candidates appearing to advocate for continuing the previous four years of developer influenced Strong Mayor rule – what some have labelled “Groves’ 2.0” policies.

The opposing perspectives of greenspace protectors on the new Council will be met with resistance from monied development powers who have influenced the past council. There will be difficult and expensive decisions if good governance is to be restored to the Town of Caledon staff, many of whom were sole selected under Strong Mayor Powers. Difficult decisions, but necessary for this new Council.

This transition story is far from over. The battle has been won, but the war continues. As my wise old Dad used to say, “The price of freedom is eternal vigilance!” Stay vigilant Caledon. Watch every decision like you would watch for an invasion to make us the 21st Sate. There is no cease and desist. The way I see it.

Skid Crease, Caledon