LETTER: Former MPs, mayors, councillors endorse Shoemaker

SooToday received the following letter issued on behalf of a number of former MPs, mayors and councillors who are endorsing Matthew Shoemaker for mayor in the upcoming municipal election.

An open letter to Sault Ste. Marie from former MPs, mayors and councillors
 
We’ve been there, we’ve seen how things get done. Collectively, we represent every end of the political spectrum, and have held almost every elected position in this community. We’ve served our community in every decade for the last five decades. Some of us have been the mayor of our community, all of us have worked with various mayors of our community. We’ve seen what it takes to be an effective mayor, and we collectively believe that Matthew Shoemaker is best positioned to be the most effective mayor for Sault Ste. Marie in the next term. As mayor, Matthew will apply the experience and skills necessary to work constructively with council to move the community forward.

Some of us have served on council with Matthew, and have seen him adjust his positions, while at the same time not compromising his beliefs, to achieve the best outcome for his constituents. This is what it will take to lead our community over the next term. His ability to work with others, including the provincial and federal government of the day, regardless of its stripe, is key to having a successful term.

In short, Matthew has what it takes: passion, compassion, knowledge, experience, and commitment to the betterment of our community to get the job done. We are pleased to endorse him in his campaign for mayor of Sault Ste. Marie and encourage you to vote Matthew Shoemaker for mayor on Oct. 24.

Yours sincerely,
 
Debbie Amaroso, former mayor, former city councillor;
Steve Butland, former N.D.P. MP, former mayor, former city councillor
James Caicco, former city councillor;
Paul Christian, outgoing city councillor;
Neil DelBianco, former city councillor;
Bryan Hayes, former Conservative MP, former city councillor;
Judy Hupponen, former city councillor;
Brady Irwin, former city councillor;
Joe Krmpotich, former city councillor; and
Rick Niro, outgoing city councillor.