About Dawn

Rooted in Petrolia. Experienced in getting things done.

Petrolia is home. It’s where I live, work, volunteer and have built relationships with people and organizations throughout our community.

I moved to Petrolia in 1997 and raised my family here. My children attended Queen Elizabeth School, Hillcrest School and LCCVI, and over nearly three decades I’ve watched Petrolia grow and change while still retaining the sense of community that makes it such a special place to live.

I love the vibe of our town — the familiar faces, the conversations that happen when you run into someone downtown, the local businesses and community organizations, and yes, the coffee shops. I really do love coffee.

This community has been home to my family for a long time, and at this stage of my life, I want to give back to Petrolia in a way that is meaningful.

I’m an author and the owner of Mediatopia Inc., a local business through which I’ve worked with businesses, organizations, authors and community groups for many years. Many local residents may also know me from my time at Loco and Company in downtown Petrolia. Running a business has taught me the importance of listening carefully, solving problems, managing competing priorities and following through — skills I believe matter just as much in public service.

I’m also the host of Soul Medicine, a podcast centred on thoughtful conversation, personal growth and the kinds of questions that help people see things differently.

Community involvement has also been an important part of my life. I currently serve as President of Kiddies Korner Co-operative Nursery School, have served on the Lambton County Developmental Services Foundation Board, and am now stepping into the role of Treasurer on the LCDS Board of Directors.

These roles have given me practical experience with governance, budgeting, policy, planning, accountability and collaborative decision-making, along with a clear understanding of the responsibility that comes with making decisions that affect other people.

Leadership, to me, starts with listening.

I don’t believe being elected means suddenly having all the answers.

Good decisions come from asking good questions, listening to the people who will be affected, considering different perspectives and being willing to learn. They also require the ability to make a decision and move forward when the time comes.

That is the approach I’ve brought to my work, my volunteer roles and the boards on which I serve, and it is the approach I would bring to Petrolia Town Council.

Why Council?

I’m running because I believe there is an opportunity to strengthen the connection between Council and the people it represents.

Petrolia has residents with tremendous knowledge, experience, ideas and enthusiasm for this community. I want more people to feel that local government is something they can understand, participate in and talk to — not something happening at a distance.

I want to help create more opportunities for conversation, encourage community participation and make sure residents feel comfortable bringing forward questions, concerns and ideas.

At the same time, Council has a responsibility to make thoughtful, practical decisions about the services, infrastructure and future of our town. I would bring an independent perspective, a willingness to do the homework and a commitment to working constructively with others.

For me, running for Council is also about giving something back. Petrolia has been home to my family since 1997. It is where I raised my children, built my business, volunteered, formed friendships and became part of the community. I would be proud to put my experience and energy to work for the town that has given my family so much.

A Little More About Me

Beyond work and community involvement, I’m a wife, mother and grandmother. I’m an avid gardener, writer and lifelong learner, and I’m usually happiest when I’m creating something, solving a problem, having a good conversation — or enjoying a really good cup of coffee.

I don’t expect everyone in Petrolia to agree with me on everything.

I do promise to listen.

I promise to ask questions.

I promise to do the work.

And if elected, I will never forget that the seat belongs to the people of Petrolia — I would simply have the privilege of occupying it for a while.

Perspective. Connection. Practical Leadership.

Me at Kingwell Golf last October for Downtown Business Merchants event/.