Rob Duncan
Why I’m running:
I love Caledonia and want to ensure the long term success of the town I call home. I recognize that Caledonia is at a crossroads and we need to start asking some BIG questions about our future. What does Caledonia need moving forward? In the next 20 years Caledonia’s population is expected to reach 30,000 residents. Right now we don’t have a Traffic Plan (which could include a Bridge at McClung Road), a Business Development & Job Creation Plan to create job opportunities for thousands of residents; A responsible Housing Development Strategy balanced with business development; a long term Health Care Plan to ensure the health services we need are available; or an Infrastructure Plan to ensure new growth happens at a pace we can handle.
I believe our government should be pro-actively planning our future.
About me:
For 28 years I have been a resident of Caledonia with my wife of 32 years.
I have a B.A.Sc. in Consumer Studies, from the University of Guelph, 1993.
Most recently I worked as a Crossing Guard at the intersection of Haddington & McKenzie/Wigton beside McKinnon Park Secondary School from 2020 – 2026.
I am an advocate for this community.
Most people know me as “The Crossing Guard” from the High School, or “Mr. Wavy”, but I am the person you see today thanks to my parents. I am the youngest of four children, and I learned about our great country by living in seven different municipalities across three provinces.
I learned the value of friendship by being challenged throughout my childhood. It is far easier to develop bonds and achieve goals with help and by treating others fairly and with respect.
My Dad was President & CEO of the YM-YWCA in Medicine Hat, Alberta and Guelph, Ontario (not at the same time). My Mom worked in government and for many community service groups, including the YWCA, and combined, my parents taught me the importance and power of cooperation for achieving goals. We can achieve more working together as a community than as individuals.
I have been a lifelong volunteer in nearly every community I’ve lived. From fundraising for the Y, coaching basketball for Haldimand Huskies, to being involved with advocacy and community groups like the Centre for Employable Workers and The Coalition For Comprehensive Health Care in Guelph. When I recognize a community need, I want to be a part of the solution.
I have been to council many times as a delegate on the topics of Municipal Bonusing, planning applications, Transparency, and most recently on the subject of the Nanticoke MZO. I have written more than 20 letters to the editor published in The Grand River Sachem & Gazette, The Haldimand Press and The Regional News This Week.
I’ve had many interesting experiences, all of which made me the person I am today. From being “Mr. Wavy” the crossing guard, a volunteer Basketball Coach, or just a friendly face on the street, I love this town and will work to make Caledonia even better while preserving the characteristics that make this a great place to live.
My experiences across Canada taught me that every municipality has something different to offer, and the best are those that plan for their future. Strong Communities don’t happen by chance. Working together, we can build a community where we all prosper. Our plan will allow people to live, work and play in the community we love.
I believe I can make a difference at council because I know how even small actions can have an enormous impact.
I believe in finding common ground and building from there. We should all be on the same team working toward the same goal.
While we may not agree on everything, I will always hear your side and treat everyone with respect.
Council should have a diversity of opinions and ideas that result in spirited debate because your future IS worth it. I am ready to fight, constructively & figuratively, for you.
Letters to the Editor on local government:
