Meet Ward 1 candidate Michele McCleave-Kennedy

SooToday asked each of the candidates to submit a bio to introduce themselves to the voters. Meet Ward 1 candidate Michele McCleave-Kennedy:

Michele boasts a full list of volunteer accomplishments and titles: a former small business owner, an active leader within the Ontario Secondary School Teachers Federation, the current President of the local Labour Council, Vice-President of the Ontario Federation of Labour, and participant in the Community Adjustment Committee ‘Future SSM’. Michele is an active supporter of community organizations, serving as a member of Lakeshore Kiwanis, Rotary Club and on the United Way Board of Directors. For the past 30 years, Michele has also coached our local youth in both baseball and figure skating.

Through these experiences, and a lifetime lived in the Sault, Michele has seen first-hand the day-to-day struggles of many Saultites, and has fought to change them. She has worked and lobbied on behalf of many groups, including special needs students, teachers, injured workers, and local businesses. She has presented submissions to the Minister of Finance about the Sault’s economy, and had a seat at the table when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau came to the Sault to speak on the topic of steel tariffs.

Michele wants to bring a new perspective to council, and to discuss issues that she’s is hearing, from fellow Ward One members: food insecurity, safety in our neighbourhoods, the mental health of our citizens, and the struggles around addiction. Michele has a proven track record of public service and leadership, of building and motivating teams, and listening to the voices of others. In advocating for Ward One, Michele will bring her devotion and consideration to the benefit and betterment of all.