Written By Olena Riznyk
Michael “Mike” Sholdice is running for mayor of Southwest Middlesex, bringing years of experience on municipal council to the race.
Born and raised in Southwest Middlesex, Sholdice has lived and worked in all three wards. His municipal experience began as a councillor in Wardsville. He later served as a councillor for Southwest Middlesex and is currently serving as deputy mayor.
Over his years on council, Sholdice has also served on various committees. He said that experience has given him knowledge of municipal government and its procedures and is one of the reasons he decided to run for mayor.
“This is a time when experience counts,” Sholdice said. “I am dedicated to this Municipality and have the time and knowledge to share what I have learned.”
Sholdice said one of the biggest challenges facing Southwest Middlesex is balancing growth and tax rates with aging infrastructure and rising costs.
Replacing aging infrastructure while maintaining a competitive tax rate is the first of his three priorities.
His second is making sure the township maintains strong representation on the Tri-County Water Board as it considers a new board structure. Sholdice currently serves as vice-chair of the committee.
His third priority is bringing industry to Southwest Middlesex through the newly serviced Industrial Park.
As a lifelong ratepayer, Sholdice said he would approach municipal decisions with the interests of ratepayers in mind. At the same time, he said council has to address the municipality’s aging infrastructure.
“Council cannot knowingly turn a blind eye to aging infrastructure, but maintaining a balance is key,” he said.
Sholdice said work already completed by council has put Southwest Middlesex on a “positive trajectory.” If elected mayor, he said he wants to continue that work with fellow council members, municipal staff and the province.
