Director of Legislative Services/Clerk
Municipality of West Grey
"It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that our efforts help residents feel informed, included, and confident in the decisions that shape their community."
About Me:
Spending time in nature has always been important to me. I’ve been fortunate to have family connections to Northern Ontario, and that influence has shaped my appreciation for quiet landscapes, fresh air, and the kind of stillness you find in the outdoors. Whether it’s walking a trail, sitting by the water, or simply enjoying the change of seasons, being outside helps me stay grounded and brings a sense of calm to my day-to-day life.
Cooking is one of my favourite ways to unwind and express creativity. I enjoy trying new recipes, experimenting with flavours, and preparing meals to share with friends and loved ones. There’s something special about gathering around a table, enjoying good food, and creating memories through shared experiences. It’s a way for me to connect with others and show care through something as simple—and meaningful—as a home-cooked meal.
Spending time with the people I care about is what matters most to me. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a quiet evening catching up, those connections are what keep me balanced and fulfilled.
Why did you get involved with/pursue a career in local government?
In high school, I was struggling to figure out what field I wanted to do my co-op placement in. I had no clear direction at the time, and the idea of working in local government hadn’t even crossed my mind. My co-op teacher—who also happened to be a municipal councillor in my community—suggested I consider doing my placement at a municipality. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I decided to give it a try.
From the moment I started, something just clicked. I knew right away that this was what I wanted to do when I grew up. I was fortunate to work with an incredible CAO and clerk who took the time to mentor me and show me what it truly means to serve your community. Their passion, professionalism, and dedication left a lasting impression on me.
That experience led me to pursue a diploma in public administration – municipal services, which gave me practical, hands-on knowledge of how municipalities operate. I later completed a bachelor of arts in political science to deepen my understanding of the political landscape and enhance my political acuity. Together, those educational experiences helped shape the foundation of my career and reinforced my commitment to public service.
What is one thing members of the public would be surprised to learn about your role?
Many people are surprised to learn that the clerk’s office is involved in nearly every aspect of municipal operations—from preparing council agendas and minutes to managing elections, overseeing records, officiating civil marriage ceremonies, and supporting bylaw enforcement, to name a few things. In a rural municipality, the role is especially diverse and hands-on. We often work directly with residents, which creates a unique opportunity to build strong relationships and foster trust in local government.
For example, one day might involve coordinating a council meeting and ensuring legislative compliance, while the next could include officiating a marriage for a local couple or providing oversight and guidance to bylaw enforcement officers as they carry out their duties. The variety keeps the work engaging and meaningful. It’s not uncommon for residents to be surprised that the same office responsible for maintaining official records is also the one helping them navigate property standards issues or issuing marriage licences.
What do you enjoy most about working in local government?
One of the most rewarding aspects of the job is being a steward of democratic and civic processes. Whether it's ensuring the integrity of a municipal election, making Council decisions accessible to the public, or helping someone understand how to participate in local government, the work we do is rooted in transparency, accountability, and service. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that our efforts help residents feel informed, included, and confident in the decisions that shape their community. That sense of connection—knowing that what we do makes a real difference in people’s lives—is what makes this role so special.