Mapleton Votes – Candidate

As part of the Ranch’s ongoing municipal election coverage, The Ranch Newsroom reached out to each candidate via email provided in their registered nomination.

Included is candidates, more about them as well as issues and accomplishments locally.

This article could see additions up to election day as candidates return their email to the newsroom.

The municipal election in Mapleton is October 26th.

Mapleton Councilor Candidates
Andy Knetsch

1.) Tell me a bit about yourself, where you grew up, education, work etc. Anything you’d like to share with the public about yourself or the community
Well, I grew up in The Netherlands and, at the age of 11, my parents decided, in 1966, to immigrate to Canada. Moving to another country, learning English, adapting to another culture taught me many valuable lessons that I have carried throughout my life. One of them being to treat people with dignity and respect. Our family moved a lot in the Toronto area and then eventually settled in the Orono, ON., area.

I decided to pursue a degree (Political Science) at Wilfrid Laurier University in 1974 and graduated in 1976. During that time Evelyn and I met, got married and ended up settling in Drayton. While at university I spent a lot of time researching what profession to pursue and settled on policing. To me, policing offered an opportunity to serve and help others. The Waterloo Regional Police Service hired me in 1976 and I served in various capacities until 2002. Even though I was still enjoying “the job” I decided to pursue a teaching position at the Doon Campus, Conestoga College in the what was then known as the Police Foundations Program. I loved my 8 years teaching and believe what motivated me was the mentoring and encouraging students to pursue their dreams. In 2010 I decided to leave my teaching career and “ran” for Councillor for Mapleton Township and was elected by the people. This was my second term as I also served as a Town of Drayton Councillor from 1988-1991. In those days I was very much in the midst of my policing career and had received permission from my Chief as I did not live in the area that I policed.

We are all “wired” differently and I am no exception. For me, I place a lot of importance of serving others. I also realize that, every day, I make mistakes, that I am far from perfect. What I am trying to say to the people of Mapleton Township is this: the only thing that I can promise to you is that I will endeavor to do my best. My goal is that after the next 4 years when another Municipal term has passed is that I have contributed, in some small way, to make Mapleton Township just a little better place to live.

2.) What are some things you’ve been proud to see within Mapleton, whether it the actions in the council chambers or within the community itself such as service clubs/organizations/good news stories?

The first thing I would point out is that regardless of any infrastructure or community project is that success is not based on just one person. Success always hinges on the collective effort. What I mean is that any successful Council has to work effectively with Staff as well with members of the community. Without those three important elements working together then failure is sure to follow. Let me give you two personal examples.

The Drayton Youth Centre was not merely created by one person. Far from it. I merely contacted a number of like minded people and began to dream, plan and organize. That effort took 4 long years (1995-1999). Sometimes we took one step forward and, at other times, we took, what seemed, 3 steps backwards. So, in 1999 the Drayton Youth Centre was opened and still going strong today. By the way, regardless of where you reside in Mapleton Township and if you desire to make an impact on our youth check out the Drayton Youth Centre website! You will personally grow and make a difference in someone’s life! The secret is simply taking the time with our youth and building relationships one person at a time!

Second, I will share with you a story that revolves around a very special 10 year old boy, Jason. During my policing career I was assigned to a number of schools as a Community Relations officer. Anyway, during one class presentation I noticed a young lad wearing a baseball cap. I asked the teacher who the student was and she replied, “Well, his name is Jason. Jason has leukemia and all reports indicate that he is dying. Jason’s mother passed away a couple of years ago and his family now consists of his father and one sister”. As ordinary people, you and I can do extraordinary things! The key is to act and not be complacent. So I did act. I submitted a report asking that Jason become an honorary police officer. My report went all the way “to the top” and the management decision was made to bestow the honorary title of Waterloo Regional Police Service Sergeant upon Jason. When Jason received an official sergeant’s hat, well, he had the brightest smile. He was so proud. Jason also loved wrestling and, in those days, Hulk Hogan, was a wrestling superstar. The Hulk happened to be performing in Toronto and arrangements were made for Jason, his dad and his sister to watch the Hulk. Off the 3 of them went in a stretched limo and Jason was treated like royalty. Hulk Hogan presented Jason with a special wrestling belt and he was proud to receive the belt from the Hulk. After this event, the weeks flew by and, on a whim, I decided one evening to check up on Jason. As soon as I entered the home I heard Jason whimpering in pain while lying on a couch in the living room. One aunt who was present continued to press cold water cloths on Jason forehead. The next day I received a phone call from the aunt indicating that Jason had passed away during the night. She invited me to the funeral which I attended. Jason’s casket was so, so small. On top of the casket were two items proudly on display, the wrestling belt and the sergeant’s hat. I got pretty choked up about that. To conclude this story I will share that I received a letter from the aunt telling me that I had been Jason’s hero. Folks, that was so humbling! In conclusion, just remember this truth: as “ordinary” people we are able to do “extraordinary” things! That kind of attitude is what I will try to bring to the Mapleton Council table.
3.) Over the last 4 years (or more) what are things within Mapleton you’ve seen that need to be addressed that you hope can be if elected/re-elected?

1. Asset Management within any municipal area is key. One of the primary reasons I decided to “run” for Councillor is to, collectively, initiate discussion regarding the future of the Mapleton Health Centre (MHC) in light of the anticipated residential growth within Mapleton, in particular Drayton.

2. Page 4/174 of the Mapleton Township 2026 Budget report points out that one of the future goals is residential as well as commercial industrial development. Page 161/174 of the Budget report states the following: “The Township of Mapleton economic developmental goal is to help businesses succeed and grow”. As well on the same page the report states, “The economic development division for the township operates with lean staffing. This division includes a manager of economic development and student resources. This division is overseen by the manager of community services”. I suggest that the new Council discuss strategies to make this division much more effective and support said economic development managers. On this file, I point out there are many agricultural businesses within Mapleton with overseas agricultural contacts. Let us begin a process where we connect with our and overseas businesses, for example, England, Germany and The Netherlands and tell people that Mapleton Township is open for business.

3. Initiate dialogue with the Grand River Conservation Authority as well as Canadian National Railway regarding the dredging, and building of berms along the east and west banks of the Conestoga River from the north edge of Drayton to the former rail road. Of note is that both the west and especially the east concrete railway towers have and continue to experience incredible erosion. I would like the next Council to be much more proactive in preventing flooding of businesses and homes in the downtown Drayton areas. In addition, the east concrete tower has become a safety hazard and, in my humble opinion, it is just a matter of time before someone falls down this tower and is seriously hurt or killed. Let us collectively work together to eliminate this very real hazard.

4. Mapleton Township experienced a horrendous accident within the past year and, as a result, 5 children and 1 adult died. My recommendation is to work together with the Ontario Provincial Police and identify high risk intersections. Once the roads have been identified to direct Staff and place asphalt “speed bumps” strips across the road. These strips may alert inattentive drivers that a stop sign is ahead.

5. I have spoken, during the 2026 Municipal Election Campaign, to business owners in the Moorefield, Alma and Drayton areas. Basically, the consensus was that Staff and Council are doing well in terms of promoting business within Mapleton Township. However, and this is the “but”, all business owners shared that the process of moving to, and building within Mapleton should be accelerated. So, my question is this,: “Is there any way that Mapleton Township can expedite the process of encouraging economic growth? One comment of one business owner shared with me the following: “Rules should be conducive to growth not businesses going ‘underground’.”

6. At least 2 previous hydrogeological studies indicate that Mapleton Township has been blessed with a large underground aquifer. I strongly suggest that Council and Staff discuss (with public input) the realities of AI Data Centres before an AI Corporation knocks on the door to enquire about building an AI Centre. Simply put, I am opposed to the building of an AI Centre in Mapleton Township for the simple reason that water is a basic human necessity.

7. Approaching Hydro One as well as Bell and hold these 2 corporations accountable for the disrepair of the green coloured hydro boxes as well as the plastic phone covers that are beside our roadways.

8. That Mapleton Township contact our schools and encourage, say all Grade 8’s and collect garbage for half a day. Lunch would be provided by the Township. There are many positive lessons to be learned, for example, the damage that garbage causes the environment; increasing responsibility for a clean and healthy environment. Another benefit is to eliminate these educational “silos” where our kids can interact with each other in a positive way.

9. Develop protection strategy for our parks. For example – create physical barriers thus preventing vehicles from entering public areas where people are able to walk without fear of being hit by a vehicle.

10. History indicates that a large area of Mapleton Township was home to Indigenous people. What about inviting Indiginous people to Mapleton and organize an annual “Pow Wow” filled with a day of stories, song and dance.
11. Initiate program to create exterior steel signs designed for barns throughout Mapleton. The signs could display a bright red laser steel maple leaf with a saying, for example, such as “Lest We Forget” (Honouring and remembering our fallen soldiers) and be installed throughout the Township.
    
    4.) For those who want to contact you, what are the best ways to do so?
    
    My contact information is:
    Andy Knetsch
    Cell #519-897-3341
    Email: andyknetsch@hotmail.com
    —
    Marlene Ottens

    1.) Tell me a bit about yourself, where you grew up, education, work etc. Anything you’d like to share with the public about yourself or the communityI’ve lived in Mapleton my entire life, and live on a farm with my husband. Three of our 4 children live in Mapleton, where they are raising their families, so I have a vested interest in ensuring this is a great place to live. I have experience in the hospitality industry, spent time raising our kids, then worked at the Listowel Banner for 10 years as a copy editor and I had a bi-weekly column.
    
    2.) What are some things you’ve been proud to see within Mapleton, whether it the actions in the council chambers or within the community itself such as service clubs/organizations/good news stories?

    After 3 terms of council, I’m proud of what has been accomplished in Mapleton. We addressed the wastewater capacity issue, which affected our ability to build and develop. An MBBR system was installed, a water tower was built, and the pumping station was moved and enlarged. We’ve added a recreation director position, which enabled Mapleton to offer summer day camps, before and after school daycare, and increased recreation options. The Moorefield Community Centre was completely renovated to add accessibility features, a modern kitchen and bathrooms, and a bright contemporary interior. The Drayton Arena replaced the 50-year-old refrigeration system, boards and glass in the rink, and a further renovation to turn the other half into a modern multi-sport court is planned. By partnering with service clubs, local parks and have been updated, including a splash pad and skate park, and a new park was added in the west end of Drayton. Through all our discussions during those 12 years, our councils have always had mature, fruitful discussions and sometimes we agreed to disagree without any hard feelings.
    
    3.) Over the last 4 years (or more) what are things within Mapleton you’ve seen that need to be addressed that you hope can be if elected/re-elected?

    We have addressed a lot of our major issues, but trying to solve the problem of vandalism in our parks is a tough one. Speeding is always an issue as well. There is some local desire for a pool in Mapleton, so that is something we could look into. I’d also like to form a Mapleton Arts Council. I would like to see more retail investment in downtown Drayton, and see our industrial park filled.
    
    4.) For those who want to contact you, what are the best ways to do so?

    I can be reached at jmottens@live.ca or by texting or calling 226-339-2894.
    —
    Jennifer Goertzen

    1. Tell me a bit about yourself
    

My husband and I were born and raised in Northern Ontario, but we moved to Mapleton in early 2001 to build our lives and careers. We have now lived in Mapleton longer than anywhere else and take great pride in our rural home and property just outside Alma, near Parker.

Professionally, my background spans construction, manufacturing, small business, human resources, and health and safety leadership. I have worked as a trusted advisor to municipal organizations, public-sector boards, and councils, helping them manage their people, meet legislative and regulatory requirements, improve operations, and deliver services more efficiently.

My education includes leadership, occupational health and safety, project management, adult education, and psychological workplace health. I hold a designation as a Canadian Registered Safety Professional, Certification with CMHA as a Psychological Health and Safety Professional, a Canadian Professional Trainer with the Institute of Professional Management, and several management-system auditing certifications including ISO and COR.

As a former Township employee, I understand both the public-facing responsibilities of local government and the work that happens behind the scenes.

My experience with both private and public sector organizations has strengthened my commitment to practical leadership, responsible governance, transparency, and accountability.

On a personal note, you might see me out walking my dog on the country roads, volunteering with Mapleton Safe Communities, and enjoying some of our fun community events.

2. What have you been proud to see within Mapleton?

One of Mapleton’s greatest strengths is its strong sense of community. We have many outstanding service clubs, community organizations, and volunteers who contribute their time and skills to make Mapleton a better place to live.

Their contributions support social and recreational activities, parks, festivals and events, seasonal celebrations, health care, and important community services. Much of this work happens quietly, but it has a meaningful impact on residents of all ages.

I am also proud to see:

• Residents and local organizations coming together when neighbours need support.
• The dedication of volunteers who create opportunities for recreation and community connection.
• Local farms and businesses continuing to contribute to Mapleton’s character and economy.

I commend Township Staff on their efforts in recent years to secure funding and grants for vital infrastructure project recreation facility improvements.

I am especially pleased with Mapleton’s Culture Days. It was a great initiative that celebrated our community’s diverse people, creativity, traditions, experiences, and local businesses while encouraging residents to discover more of what makes Mapleton unique.

3. What needs to be addressed?

Mapleton must continue balancing growth and change with responsible financial planning and the preservation of the qualities that make our township special.

If elected, I would like Council to focus on:

• Infrastructure: Maintaining roads, bridges, facilities, and other essential assets through responsible long-term planning.
• Efficient service delivery: Regularly reviewing programs and processes to identify practical improvements and make the best use of taxpayer dollars.
• Responsible growth: Ensuring development is supported by appropriate infrastructure and reflects the needs of the whole community.
• Transparency and communication: Providing residents with clear, timely, and accessible information about decisions and their impacts.
• Accountability: Establishing clear priorities, measuring results, and following through on commitments.
• Continuous improvement: Asking critical questions rather than maintaining the status quo simply because something has always been done a certain way.

I support measured and sensible change—not change for its own sake. Decisions should be practical, evidence-informed, financially responsible, and focused on improving outcomes for residents.

4. How can residents contact you?

I welcome questions, ideas, and concerns from Mapleton residents. The best ways to reach me are:

• Email: jennifergoertzen1@gmail.com
• Website: jeng4council.my.canva.site
• Social media: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61593842136355

I look forward to listening to residents throughout the campaign and learning more about the priorities of Mapleton residents.
—
Lori Woodham

I live on a farm in Moorefield with my husband, Alwyn, and our youngest son, Conner. I love the small town community and I’m still considered “new” to the area as I’ve only lived here for 24 years. I grew up in many towns and cities; Kitchener, Guelph, Ottawa, Plevena, Richmond and Poole to name a few. I’ve experienced “city” living and by far Mapleton Township feels like home.

I was a councilor for Mapleton Township from 2014 – 2018 and again from 2024 until now. I have chaired the Committee of Adjustment for the Township fom 2018 – 2024. I am a member of the 100 Women Who Care Rural Wellington since inception and now sit on the executive committee. A fantastic group of women making a contribution of $100 quarterly, the donation to a local charity in the amount of $10,000 or more really does make difference. I volunteered at Conner’s school in Moorefield for many years, was the treasurer for Moorefield United Church. I currently work part time as a bookkeeper.

I believe the role of a good councillor should be to provide safe roads, ensure the budget reserves are in place for future infrastructure, and that we all have safe drinking water. The core essentials! This can be achieved by building strong relationships with all council members, staff, Provincial and Federal Governments, along with our Wellington County municipalities. Right now, I feel we have achieved this around our horseshoe council chambers, by respecting each other in their roles, and collaboratively working together. These relationships we have built are in direct correlation to the grants we have been receiving. Mapleton is committed and will continue to apply for funding. We as councilors all live in Mapleton, and want to have the general tax levy as low as possible while achieving our core essential goals.

I respectfully ask for your vote on October 26^th. I can be reached by email at lori.alwyn@gmail.com or by phone 519 504-6284.
—
Michael Martin

1.) Tell me a bit about yourself, where you grew up, education, work etc. Anything you’d like to share with the public about yourself or the community

Carly and I moved to Moorefield in 2011 and we’ve raised our two boys, Ty and Beckett, here. I graduated from the Paramedic Program from Conestoga College in 2001 and entered the field of paramedicine. In 2004, I complete the Advanced Care Paramedic program from Humber College. I’ve worked for the Region of Waterloo Paramedic Services since 2003, and joined the managment team in 2018, where I currently serve as an Operations Commander. Carly and I share this profession and it has helped create a real passion for serving our local community, including here at home. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have served on Mapleton Township Council for the past 12 years and couldn’t be more appreciative of the good dialogues and respect that folks have shown me during this time.

2.) What are some things you’ve been proud to see within Mapleton, whether it the actions in the council chambers or within the community itself such as service clubs/organizations/good news stories?

I’m immensely proud of our Mapleton community. We’ve shown that we’re a vibrant group of people who are sincere about making our towns successful. Real proof is in our local service clubs like the Moorefield Optimist, Moorefield Athletic Association, Drayton Kinsmen and Kinnettes, Drayton Rotary Club and the Alma Optimists. That’s a lot of volunterism in a small community, and thats only the official clubs as many more volunteers exist unofficially.

In my time on Council the past 12 years, municipal staff and Council had put great efforts into modernizing the business of the Township from the financal processes to the plans (master, asset etc) that guide our decisions consistently. We’ve also put time, energy, and finances into our local infrastructure including roads, bridges, and our water/wastewater to allow for increased capacity and efficiences. The Drayton Water Tower and ongoing wastewater buildouts are examples of this. We’ve done our best to plan and stay on top of our amenities, including a recent upgrade/replacement of the ice pad at PMD Arena this summer. We’ve been blessed to have the ongoing efforts of Council and Senior Municipal staff result in large Provincial and Federal grants to assist in these projects. We’ve also shown an ability to develop local solutions to address our own problems without always looking for handouts from higher levels of governments – example being the creation of the North Maple Utilities (Municipal Service Corporation) to provide oversights and governance to our local water/wasterwater system.

3.) Over the last 4 years (or more) what are things within Mapleton you’ve seen that need to be addressed that you hope can be if elected/re-elected?

Moving forward, we need to continue to address our ongoing infrastructre deficit, plan for the future growth and make determinations on the amenities/service levels that our local community needs and wants. This will need to include hard conversations with residents about impacts on taxation levels and the type of growth that needs to happen. This growth absolutely needs to be diverse and include commerical and industrial opportunities to create good paying, value add jobs in our communites all the while taking great pains to preserve our unique Mapleton lifestyle.

4.) For those who want to contact you, what are the best ways to do so?

Anyone looking to contact me further during the municipal election process can contact me here @ mikemartin02@icloud.com, I’m happy to chat further.