Councillor: Norm Orviss – Ward 1
Candidate name: Norm Orviss
Occupation: Operations
Position on council: Ward 1 Councillor
Contact information: orvissn@bell.net
Social Media:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085002493106
Campaign Website: Vote Norm Orviss for Ward 1 (normorvissward1.ca)
Biography
I grew up in Cobourg and it has always been my plan to return to the area at this stage in my life. Growing up I played many sports and was actively involved in my community. My parents were active members of their church and volunteered in many community settings including the hospital and the Golden Plough. This helped to foster in me an understanding and respect for community involvement.
My work history has been in operations and I have always built strong functioning teams and have prided myself on empathetic and inclusive leadership. I have been described as an approachable and caring leader who is also efficient with creative problem solving to ensure the completion of tasks.
I have been married for over 40 years and have two children and 7 wonderful grandchildren ranging in age from 3 to 14. My interests represent many generations not just my own. My children played competitive sports growing up and I was involved with coaching as well as serving on the executive committees of their sports. I believe my history of building successful teams and recognizing the importance of working collaboratively with others has provided me the tools to be a successful community leader.
I have lived many places throughout my life and have interacted with many people, I believe this has offered me the insight to recognize that needs are often different across different variations of peoples and that there can be a way to ensure that everyone’s voices are heard.
I left the area in my early 20’s to pursue work opportunities within the city which eventually led to my successful career in sales and operations and its where I met my wife. I do not regret any part of my journey however I do believe that more infrastructure is needed within our community and surrounding area so that others do not have to travel or move to other communities in order to seek adequate, sustainable employment.
Identify one hobby or guilty pleasure you do that is not related to your profession or politics:
I like to Golf when I get a chance, I manage a league of golfers and we play weekly, that is my guilty pleasure
Please answer each question clearly and concisely in no more than 500 words.
1.Why are you running for council?
I am running for council because I love this area and Port Hope is my home. I believe that my expertise in Operations will help the council and the Town move forward on some of the projects that should be a priority. Such as:
· Fair and equitable tax system
· Town Plan that was written but not all areas completed
· Facility and Services for all – which means flexible service models so that all groups can be accommodated
· Affordable housing
· Attract new business to keep the town thriving and keep our youth in the area
· Moving forward with LTC and Senior resources that are lacking in all of Ontario
2. What is the single, primary reason you are running?
To help in service delivery of projects and plans that will be the responsibility of the next council. I know I can assist and be part of the writing of a continued direction for the town to offer the community the services and the facilities it needs, while maintaining the Town identity. We need open minds and a continued sense of belonging that I can bring to the table.
3. What will you do to address this issue?
One of the main issues is the follow through on plans already in place but not implemented. I would bring the items forward and put a plan in place to get them done.
4. Identify one success of the previous council?
Each previous council has had successes in some of what they have tackled. The area around the beach and the Riverwalk has been well done and will need to be continued by the next council.
5. Identify one criticism of the previous council?
The outright voting down of the proposal for a Long Term Care unit in Town is a disappointment and somewhat in my estimation short sighted. Along with this type of unit comes Jobs/Taxes and opportunity for the business people in town to present and offer service to this new community group. Whether we like it or not we are all getting older and these services we will need in the future.
6. How will you address the one issue you identified from the previous council?
I would ask the Council and the Mayor to reconsider this project and try and work with the developer. If there are questions about the plan, to assist them in helping track this to meet the needs of the community.
7. Why should voters select you over others?
I had to leave the area for more opportunity. I believe we can bring that opportunity home. Even though I left the area for work I still maintained close ties here with my parents and a family member living in Cobourg a family member in Baltimore and another in Port Hope.
I have a track record of success in my work life that can be translated to community service. I am passionate on following through on plans that have been started and I have a “do what I say” approach. My operations background which included being a Director of Operations gives me a unique experience that will help in delivering the services that our various groups need.
About the Author
