David MacDonald seeks council seat back
Served as councillor for residents in Ward 6 for two terms before losing in 2014
David MacDonald has decided to take another run at a council seat he once held.
MacDonald represented the residents in Ward 6 Stonepark twice before, as well as three terms on council for the former community of Sherwood.
MacDonald was defeated in the 2014 election by incumbent Coun. Bob Doiron.
Voters head to the polls on Monday, Nov. 5, in the municipal election.
MacDonald said he’s received encouragement from family, friends and residents in the ward to jump back into municipal politics.
“I enjoy municipal politics. It is grassroots politics,’’ he said. “Decisions taken by city council affect our neighbours on a day-to-day basis. I have had opportunities to get involved in political life at the provincial and federal levels, but those levels of government hold no interest for me. In my opinion, municipal government is much more exciting, fulfilling and rewarding because our decisions most often impact us directly and take effect immediately.’’
In order for council to work effectively, MacDonald said councillors and the mayor must work together while also responding to and addressing the concerns of the residents in their respective wards.
“The reality is that every councillor needs to get the support of a majority of councillors to get projects or incentives implemented. Councillors are part of a team. They can’t work alone and there is no room for personal agendas.’’
MacDonald and his wife, Cheryl, have lived in Ward 6 for more than 35 years. Their three adult children, Craig, Brady and Marlee went to Sherwood Elementary School, Stonepark Intermediate School and Charlottetown Rural High School.
In addition to his experience on the city and community councils, MacDonald has served three terms as a school board trustee and on the provincial Home and School’s Sherwood executive. MacDonald is retired from his job with Veterans’ Affairs Canada after 30 years and is now self-employed.
“I . . . have the flexibility and time required to devote the hours necessary to handle the responsibilities associated with being a city councillor and I am also readily accessible to residents.’’