Lucas Cleveland is seeking re-election as Mayor of Cobourg, saying he is running for a second term to finish work he began during his first term. He says his experience as a downtown business owner, father and longtime resident has shaped his approach to the role.
Cleveland says his reasons for originally seeking the position remain the same, including concerns about the direction of the community. He says he believes another term would give him an opportunity to continue work on safety, services and Cobourg’s longer-term future.
Priorities
Cleveland says his main priority remains the safety and security of Cobourg. He outlines several measures he would continue pursuing, including opposing certain proposed drug-related facilities and continuing enforcement of municipal bylaws.
He also supports a 24-hour warming and respite centre where people experiencing a crisis could be connected with services. Cleveland says such a facility should have rules and consequences, while giving police and bylaw officers another option when responding to people in crisis.
What Sets Him Apart
Cleveland says personal integrity and being willing to acknowledge mistakes are central to how he approaches leadership. He points to his professional background and his experience during his first term as examples of how he believes he handles difficult situations.
Cleveland says he believes leadership involves taking responsibility when something does not go as planned. He also says his previous careers, including work in the restaurant and oil and gas industries, gave him experience dealing with difficult problems and bringing people together to complete a task.
Why He Loves Cobourg
Cleveland says Cobourg’s history, heritage and small-town character are among the things that first attracted him to the community. He remembers arriving in town with his young family and being struck by the tree-lined streets and historic homes.
Cleveland says his connection to Cobourg has grown over the years, including through his involvement with the Cobourg Historical Society. He says his family has put down roots in the community and that his children will grow up there, which he says is a major reason he remains committed to its future.
In closing, Cleveland thanked residents who became involved in community discussions during his first term, saying he believes the changes that followed were the result of residents coming together.
