Les ANDREWS

As a graduate of Business Administration from Ryerson University, I have spent my career in the business sector. My first position was as a computer programmer/pre-sale systems analyst for Honeywell. Within two years, I was transferred into sales and had a very successful start selling mainframe computers. For the next 15 years, I held a number of sales and marketing positions within the information technology industry. My last position was in financial leasing of goods and services to Fortune 500 companies.

In 1989, I was approved by McDonald’s Canada to acquire a McDonald’s restaurant on William Street in Cobourg as an owner-operator. Over the course of the next 25 years, I expanded the market and added the Port Hope and Walmart locations. Upon retiring from McDonald’s in 2014, I successfully ran for municipal council in Port Hope. I was re-elected in 2018 and appointed deputy mayor for the full four-year term. I was re-elected in 2022 as a councillor. I have spent my career building businesses, solving problems and working with people. I have spent the past 12 years serving Port Hope. We are facing some very important decisions over the next four years, and I want to continue bringing a practical and independent voice to council.

Issues Council Will Face in the Next Term

1. The Port Hope Area Initiative

The Port Hope Area Initiative (PHAI) cleanup is now focused on residential properties. Council has been appointed to sit on the Community Advisory Committee (CAC). We have been clear that the CAC must establish its own mandate. The CAC will include residential representation and will utilize individuals with experience in legal, mortgage and real estate matters relevant to the cleanup.

2. Ontario Power Generation Proposal

Ontario Power Generation’s proposal for a nuclear reactor at Wesleyville is not a foregone conclusion, and it has not yet been determined that Port Hope will be the chosen site. However, we are organizing ourselves to ensure we have a strong voice in the decisions that will be made. It is imperative that we have the technical and legal support necessary to protect our best interests. Our CAO has identified and recruited the individuals who will assist us moving forward. The costs associated with these new employees will be funded through the $4 million Growth Readiness Fund sourced from OPG.

3. Our Seniors

Unfortunately, we have failed our seniors, specifically in providing a long-term care facility that meets current standards of living. Our seniors deserve access to modern facilities. The municipality needs to find an acceptable site and a competent, certified developer to bring a high-quality long-term care facility to Port Hope.

4. Taxes

We need to provide the services residents expect while making disciplined decisions about what the municipality can afford. Growth should pay its fair share and be properly planned. Let’s grow but let’s grow intelligently. Accomplishments and Goals for the Future I had two goals when I was re-elected in 2022. The first was to re-establish the Port Hope Walk-In Clinic, and the second was to open daycare spaces in Canton. Both objectives have been accomplished. Another long-term goal of mine for 2027 and beyond is to advocate for and build a public-private arena alongside our current Parks and Recreation facilities. This could include a second ice pad coupled with a Port Hope YMCA aquatic facility. When we provide health-focused spaces for individuals of all ages to come together, we demonstrate a strength and philosophy that are imperative to the growth of this exceptional town.

We all belong here.
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Amelia BRAY

I'm Amelia Bray, a businesswoman, community builder and advocate for making Port Hope a place where people can build a good life and afford to stay.

My career has taught me how to turn ideas into reality, navigate complex systems, bring people together, and create opportunities. As a small-business operator and community volunteer, I’ve seen firsthand how municipal decisions affect families, local businesses and our community's vitality.

My vision for Port Hope centres on three connected priorities: walkable streets, affordability through increased municipal revenue, and smart development & creative housing solutions.

I believe walkable, connected neighbourhoods are essential to a healthy community. That means investing in flexible, modern ideas that allow people of all ages and abilities to navigate their neighbourhoods and reach the places they need to go.

I also believe affordability requires us to look beyond simply "keeping taxes low". We need to grow our tax base thoughtfully, attract investment, support local industry and create new economic activity so that the cost of providing municipal services isn't carried increasingly by the same residential taxpayers.

Finally, I believe Port Hope needs to embrace smart development and creative housing. We can add housing, including additional residential units and gentle density, while respecting the character of our historic neighbourhoods. Creative housing can help seniors age in place, allow families to stay together, and help homeowners build equity and financial security.

Growth and preservation don't have to be opposites. Neither do affordability and investment.

I want to help build a Port Hope that is more connected, more financially resilient and more attainable for the people who already call it home—while creating opportunities for the next generation to call it home too.

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Caleb CARISSE

Caleb Carisse was born and raised in Port Hope, and he's running for Ward 1 Councillor.

For 15 years, Caleb has worked in the private sector at Accenture, one of the world's largest consulting firms, the last five as a Managing Director leading complex, multi-year programs for some of Canada's largest public service organizations and financial institutions. That work has meant sitting across the table from senior executives and government leaders, stabilizing high-stakes projects under real pressure, and learning how to break down complicated problems.

Alongside his career, Caleb has spent years doing hands-on work here at home. He serves on the board of Green Wood Coalition, a street-level organization supporting Port Hope residents facing poverty, addiction, and mental illness, and he's Chair of The Rose Quest, a local charity fighting hygiene poverty among youth and seniors. It's a combination he sees as complementary rather than contradictory: the executive experience to manage complex, high-stakes decisions like the budget and Wesleyville, alongside years of hands-on commitment to residents facing real hardship.

Caleb is running on fiscal discipline and closing the infrastructure funding gap; greater transparency between council, staff, and the public; real economic development through Port Hope's heritage downtown; a hard look at municipal service delivery; genuine standing for Port Hope on the Wesleyville nuclear proposal and PHAI; and real support for downtown businesses through years of construction and growth.

Caleb believes Port Hope deserves a councillor who can hold their own on the biggest files coming to council, without ever losing sight of the residents those decisions actually affect. He and his wife are raising their daughters in Port Hope, and he's running because he wants this town to be a place they're proud to grow up in.

Strategic Leadership. Community Values.

Interview with Robert Washburn of Consider This.
https://consider-this.ca/caleb-carisse/

More at calebcarisse.ca
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Claire Holloway Wadhwani. Photo submitted.

Claire HOLLOWAY WADHWANI

I have spent my first term on Port Hope’s Municipal Council doing what I believe local government is for: showing up for people, asking hard questions, and working across boundaries to build a community that is resilient, fair, and ready for the future.

My approach is collaborative and community-centred, rooted in the conviction that good decisions come from genuine engagement, honest accounting, and a willingness to think long-term even when it is not the easy path.

I have worked to make Council more transparent and responsive: leveling the playing field for councillor-led motions, embedding equity questions into how decisions are made, and pushing for budgets that tell residents the truth about the real cost of maintaining our community.

Sustainability has been at the heart of my work. As Chair of the Environmental Advisory Committee, I helped guide Port Hope’s Sustainable Future community climate action plan from consultation to adoption, and I am appointed as Ontario municipal representative on the Green Municipal Fund.

I have advocated for honest infrastructure funding, greener stormwater and street design, and safer roads for everyone.

Housing has been just as central, and I co-chair the Intermunicipal Taskforce on Housing Solutions, because these challenges do not stop at municipal borders.

After more than 20 years in community development in Canada and abroad, including as an Executive Director and running my own practice, I bring a deep commitment to asset-based approaches, collaborative governance, and the belief that the best outcomes happen when communities lead alongside their elected officials.

Democratic accountability and genuine community voice are the foundation of how I approach this role.

My husband and I are raising our three children in Port Hope, and that makes every decision personal.

I look forward to continuing to work together for the community we share.

Interview with Robert Washburn of Consider This.
https://consider-this.ca/claire-holloway-whadhwani/

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Miranda LUKANIUK

I’m running for Port Hope Council because I believe what makes Port Hope special is worth protecting and worth investing in.

I’m a local business owner of Local Bg Talent Agency, a film-industry professional, artist, community volunteer and long-time advocate for the creative and cultural life of our community. Through my work, I’ve helped connect local people with film productions, support local businesses and artists, and created opportunities for our community to benefit from Port Hope’s growing reputation as a destination for film, culture and tourism.

I founded the Port Horror Festival, a community-driven celebration of film, art and creativity that brings filmmakers, artists, audiences and businesses together while creating opportunities for local economic and cultural participation. I’m also involved with the Port Hope Lions Club,

My record is about showing up, networking, negotiating, creating things, taking risks and finding ways to make ideas happen.

My Platform

Protect Port Hope’s Character.
Growth is coming. We should welcome thoughtful development without allowing growth to erase our heritage, architecture, waterfront, natural spaces, farmland or community identity.

Support Local Business & Culture.
Our independent businesses, artists, festivals, filmmakers and community organizations are economic and cultural assets. I want municipal policy to help them succeed.

Make Growth Work for Residents.
Housing, infrastructure and economic development matter but growth should strengthen the community that already exists, not simply serve outside interests.

Protect Our Environment & Quality of Life.
Our waterfront, parks, trees, agricultural lands and natural spaces are part of Port Hope’s identity and must be considered in long-term planning.

Keep Council Open, Honest & Human.
I have opinions. I will ask difficult questions. But I also believe in listening, working with people who disagree with me, and finding solutions even if I have to be a devil's advocate.

Port Hope doesn't need to become something else to have a future.

Consider This With Robert Washburn Interview:
https://consider-this.ca/miranda-lukaniuk/

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Vicki MINK

I believe Port Hope can prepare for the future while protecting what makes our community special. What I bring is experience, a steady and practical approach, and a commitment to listening, learning and working with others to move Port Hope forward.

I was first elected to Council in 2018 and have served on a wide range of committees and boards, including the Library Board, Accessibility and Environmental committees. I have also served for eight years on the Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority Board, including Vice-Chair and Chair roles. These experiences have given me a broad understanding of municipal government, infrastructure, planning, environmental stewardship and the importance of making thoughtful, informed decisions.

My priorities for the next term include: managing change and growth while protecting Port Hope’s character, heritage and natural environment; building a fairer and more sustainable tax base; improving accountability and customer response; prioritizing heritage, tourism and local business; providing meaningful leadership on the Port Hope Area Initiative (PHAI); addressing housing, traffic and transportation, accessibility and inclusion, and environmental stewardship.

I believe we can welcome thoughtful growth while strengthening our local economy, protecting our heritage and natural landscapes, and improving accessibility. We also need to support both our urban and rural neighbourhoods as places where people want to live, work, visit and build their future.

My approach is to look beyond individual issues, and understand how decisions affect the broader community; and, find practical solutions that respect taxpayers while planning for the long term. Port Hope has tremendous strengths, but the choices we make now will shape our community for decades. I am committed to bringing experience, independence, common sense and collaboration to those decisions by continuing to listen to residents throughout the process and remain accountable to the community.

Consider This With Robert Washburn Interview:
https://consider-this.ca/vicki-mink/
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Norm ORVISS

My name is Norm Orviss, and I am proud to be running for Ward 1 Councillor in Port Hope. As a father and grandfather with roots in the area, I care deeply about the people, neighbourhoods, and rural communities that make Port Hope such a meaningful place to call home. For me, public service begins with listening, showing up, and earning trust through steady, practical work.

Over a 30-year career in corporate and operational management, including work with several Fortune 500 companies, I gained experience managing budgets, overseeing resources, guiding teams, and helping complex projects move forward. Those years taught me the value of careful planning, clear communication, and responsible decision-making. They also reinforced my belief that good results come from bringing people together, asking the right questions, and staying focused on the long-term interests of those we serve.

Now recently retired, I can commit myself to serving Port Hope full time with dedication, accessibility, and accountability. I am recognized as someone who follows through, works respectfully with others, and is prepared to ask diƯicult questions. Residents deserve a Councillor who is approachable, thoughtful, and willing to do the homework before important decisions are made.

The choices before Port Hope will help shape our community for decades. Major proposals such as the Wesleyville Nuclear project and the long-term PHAI/CNL agreement deserve careful attention, transparency, and strong local representation. At the same time, everyday priorities matter deeply: reliable cell service, neighbourhood parks, housing initiatives, senior healthcare, and keeping the Archives in Port Hope. I also want to help grow our tax base not your tax bill by supporting small business, manufacturing, responsible growth, tourism, filming opportunities, and agri-tourism possibilities for our rural community. My goal is to serve with a calm voice, a practical mind, and a genuine commitment to Towns future.

Interview with Robert Washburn of Consider This.
https://consider-this.ca/norm-orvis/

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Adam PEARSON

I’m a lifelong community-minded volunteer, local business owner, and current Deputy Mayor of Port Hope. I’m seeking re-election because I believe in the community we’ve built together and in the opportunities ahead.

As the owner of Queenies Bake Shop, I understand the importance of supporting local businesses, creating opportunities, and building a strong local economy. But my commitment to Port Hope goes far beyond my business. Over decades, I’ve volunteered countless hours supporting local organizations, community events, charitable initiatives, and projects that bring people together.

I’ve been honoured to receive the Port Hope Civic Award for Philanthropy twice, the Paul Harris Fellow, the Chief of Police Outstanding Citizen Award, and the YMCA Peace Medal.

I’ve also had the opportunity to bring major community events to Port Hope, including Jurassic Park celebrations during the Toronto Raptors’ championship run and Blue Jays World Series watch parties. I believe events like these create community spirit while supporting local businesses and organizations.

My vision for Port Hope is built around five pillars: Community, Innovation, Prosperity, Environment, and Heritage.

Whether I’m serving on Council, running my business, or volunteering in our community, I believe leadership is about showing up, listening, finding solutions, and getting things done.

I’m a lifelong community-minded volunteer, local business owner, and current Deputy Mayor of Port Hope. I’m seeking re-election because I believe in the community we’ve built together and in the opportunities ahead.

As the owner of Queenies Bake Shop, I understand the importance of supporting local businesses, creating opportunities, and building a strong local economy. But my commitment to Port Hope goes far beyond my business. Over decades, I’ve volunteered countless hours supporting local organizations, community events, charitable initiatives, and projects that bring people together.

I’ve been honoured to receive the Port Hope Civic Award for Philanthropy twice, the Paul Harris Fellow, the Chief of Police Outstanding Citizen Award, and the YMCA Peace Medal.

I’ve also had the opportunity to bring major community events to Port Hope, including Jurassic Park celebrations during the Toronto Raptors’ championship run and Blue Jays World Series watch parties. I believe events like these create community spirit while supporting local businesses and organizations.

My vision for Port Hope is built around five pillars: Community, Innovation, Prosperity, Environment, and Heritage.

Whether I’m serving on Council, running my business, or volunteering in our community, I believe leadership is about showing up, listening, finding solutions, and getting things done.

OFFICE OF COUNCILLOR – WARD 1

Mayor: Ian West

OFFICE OF COUNCILLOR – WARD 2