Early voting opens today for the Greater Napanee Ward 3 by-election, and runs through election day on Jan. 19, with ballots available online and by telephone.
Candidates laid out their priorities during a public meeting at Selby Community Hall Wednesday evening.
The event, hosted by the Lennox and Addington Chamber of Commerce, brought together all four candidates: Jeff Chestnut, Shawn Davey, Robert Dorey and Dave McRae. The format included opening statements, submitted questions and closing remarks.
Before the discussion began, chamber president Ken Shurtliffe acknowledged the late councillor Dave Pinnell Jr., whose passing in July created the vacancy. He highlighted Pinnell’s dedication to representing Ward 3 and contributing to the town’s long-term growth.
The most debated topic of the evening was the future of the former CN rail bed, which has been discussed as a possible walking trail. Dorey spoke in favour of preserving trails and planning for active transportation, while recognizing concerns from landowners whose properties border the corridor.
McRae said the town should pause any decision on selling the land until more information is available, citing the need for transparency. Chestnut said he opposes selling the land and argued the town is not doing enough to expand accessible walking trails. Davey, who disclosed that he owns property along the rail bed, said ongoing issues with trespassing and encampments influenced his position. He said selling the land could help fund an in-town trail that could be built sooner.
Bag tags also drew differing views. McRae said the program provides important revenue for the municipality. Chestnut called for eliminating bag tags and replacing them with a free weekly bag. Davey supported reviewing the program now that years of data are available. Dorey said the system should be revised to better reduce waste, not eliminated.
In-person voting assistance will be available at the Best and Bash Arena on Jan. 19. The winner will serve the remaining 10 months of the current council term, with a full municipal election set for Oct. 26.
Written by Emily Chatwood
