Council Candidate Nathaniel Suitor Talks Chatham-Kent Sports

CKSN asked all candidates running for Chatham-Kent council and mayor, to give us their backgrounds in sports and recreation, and describe their goals and views for not only sports and recreation in Chatham-Kent, but making Chatham-Kent a healthier, and more active place to live.

The Chatham-Kent Municipal election day is October 27, 2014.

Here are council candidate Nathaniel Suitor’s responses. Suitor is running for council in Ward 2 – South Kent.

1. Background in sports and recreation:

Honestly, I have not been involved in local sports or any recreation programs. I understand the importance of physical activity and getting ourselves and our children involved. Growing up, my parents, relied on my help on the farm as we were growing and harvesting numerous vegetable crops which didn’t leave me with a lot of extra time for organized sports. Like any child, I played my fair share of pond hockey and baseball with friends – but never played organized sports. I ended up getting most of my physical needs through work. I have in the past supported these programs by watching or helping when my friends were playing hockey either in rec leagues or all the way up to Junior B.

2. What specific ideas or goals do you have for Chatham-Kent, to improve or maintain recreational programs and facilities, and support our athletes and sports organizations? Or to help build opportunities for future growth in these areas?

I firmly believe that all the stake holders (ie. community, user groups, etc.) need to involved in and all decision making in regards to our current and future recreation facilities. I also believe that the improvements to recreation facilities should be take place in the rural communities as well as the urban ones.

3. How will you work to make Chatham-Kent a healthier, more active place to live?

I believe keeping the costs of recreation programs in check would help make Chatham-Kent a healthier, more active place to live. To do so, council may have to look at streamlining some of the operation of it’s facilities, when future recreation facilities are considered – build them next to existing ones.

4. Anything else you’d like to add?

Chatham-Kent is a wonderful place to live and raise a family. We have so many amenities right at our back door. We’re surrounded by water, some of the best sport fishing is right here, water skiing, kayaking and canoeing. We have Rondeau Provincial Park to wander through a true Carolinian Forest. We have Soccer Pitches, Ball Diamonds, Arena’s and Pools – not always enough field or ice time available; but it’s something we can work on! As of lately, there have been numerous walking trails and bike lanes opening up! I believe the future is bright in Chatham -Kent when it comes to physical activity, and there truly is something for everyone!

What did you think of Council Candidate Nathaniel Suitor’s responses? Let us know in the comments below!