Cody Pierce is challenging two-term incumbent Jamie MacDonald for the role in the October 26 municipal election.

Pierce, 28, owns and operates a custom computer business in Alexandria. He said he feels like he has what he needs materially in life and is looking for further fulfillment. Pierce said he wants to bring a new perspective to municipal politics and address greater issues like housing and affordability on a local level. He said lower taxes would allow more people to have the opportunity to participate in the economy.

Pierce said leadership is more than bylaws, budgets, and photo-ops. He said more marketing of local business success stories and direct understanding of challenges facing local business owners are needed. He said business owners have told him they would appreciate a yearly visit from their mayor as a check-in to see how things are going.

Being mayor would not be a part-time job for Pierce.

“I want to treat it as full-time,” he said.

Pierce believes the best opportunity for change is at the local level. To complement that belief, he wants to encourage people to show up on election day to vote and attend council meetings.

“We need to encourage community participation,” he said.

Efficient operations and fiscal management are a priority for Pierce. He said an assessment of what expenditures are necessary and potential new sources of revenue are needed.

“Why does it cost $100,000 a year to host their website?” Pierce alleged, claiming that is the cost to the township for website hosting.

He said three to four per cent savings could likely be achieved by doing a thorough, line-by-line examination of the township’s budget. Pierce said he wants to do whatever it takes to prevent tax increases.

“People need immediate relief,” he said.

Pierce has no previous experience in politics. When asked why he decided to run for mayor instead of easing into politics by instead running for a council seat, he said it is about setting an agenda for the township.

“The mayor sets the tone. There’s power in the symbol of mayor,” Pierce said.

That said, Pierce acknowledged collaboration with others is essential.

“I want to work in collaboration with the experienced council members,” he said.

“It’s not a one-man show,” Pierce added.