Meet the Candidates

Two people handshaking while one person holds paperwork

Icon of a magnifying glass and checkmark This page contains information about candidates running in the 2024 municipal by-election for Ward 2. Each candidate running for the office of Ward 2 Councillor was given the opportunity to provide a photo, contact information, website and/or social media links, and a short platform message. This information is intended to help voters find out more about the 2024 municipal by-election candidates in Port Hope. 

Information on this page was provided directly by candidates and has not been altered or edited by municipal staff. Photos were resized for consistency. For additional information about candidates or to ask a candidate questions, please contact them directly. 

Candidates running for the Rural Area (Ward 2) Council

There is one position available as a Ward 2 Councillor for the by-election.
 (Candidates listed in alphabetical order, by last name).

Image of John Bickle

John Bickle

Running for Ward 2 Councillor

Contact, website, and/or social media

Platform message

Why I am Running.

I am passionate about the Community in which I have lived for 37 years, and my family ties go back to 1871 Wesleyville.
As a Ward 2 Councillor for 2018 to 2022 and as a past Councillor for the former Hope Township I believe I have the Commitment & Experience with priorities for the Community to include a responsible Budget, well maintained roads and managing Residential growth responsibly while safeguarding our Community's Heritage and Rural identity.
With today's world fixated on electronic communication I truly believe meeting people in person to resolve any issues at hand is important, when elected I will continue to follow this practice.

Please consider me to be your Ward 2 Councillor.

Image of Louise Ferrie-Blecher

Louise Ferrie-Blecher

Running for Ward 2 Councillor

Contact, website, and/or social media

Platform message

I served as a Ward 2 Port Hope Councillor from 2014 to 2018, and chaired the Planning and Development Portfolio. I was the council representative on the Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority and the Heritage Port Hope Committee. I also served on the Budget Committee, Environmental Committee, and the Rural Action Working Group. I’ve remained involved in municipal government by serving on the Committee of Adjustment from 2018-2024.

I have the experience and skills that enable me to be productive on Day One. My background in law and business give me the analytical skills to listen and competently advocate for rural Port Hope.

Main issues of concern to me: the upcoming Official Plan Review, getting value for our taxes, road maintenance and plowing, and protecting farmland from urban sprawl.

Image of Freyja Jorgensen

Freyja Jorgensen

Running for Ward 2 Councillor

Contact, website, and/or social media

Platform message

I am a big proponent of protecting our natural features. We need to be implementing proactive protections to ensure the Oak Ridges Moraine, Ganaraska Forest, and the Ganny are never stripped of their ecological importance. We should be fighting the affordability/housing crisis by supporting our existing industries and encouraging emerging local talent. I want to ensure a higher standard of communication between the municipality and citizens. Ensuring both that, citizens have easy access to council decision justifications and that council efforts are seen as effective not performative. It’s also my promise to represent my 2SLGBTQIA+ neighbours as we develop and adopt updated diversity policies; among them making sure an adequate diversity/inclusivity advisory committee is established ASAP. 

Image of Darrell Toms

Darrell Toms

Running for Ward 2 Councillor

Contact, website, and/or social media

Platform message

I am running for Council to passionately champion for the rural community.

With deep roots spanning four generations, Port Hope is not just a place to me, but my home.

As a devoted husband, father of two young children, and a lifelong entrepreneur, I bring a wealth of life and business experience to the table. My commitment to responsible planning and prudent fiscal management, ensuring our community's prosperity for generations to come.

I believe in openness and transparency. I believe in empowering every resident to actively participate in shaping our collective voice.

I stand committed to our rural community. Your concerns are my concerns, my voice will be your voice. I earnestly seek not just your support, but your partnership in this journey toward a brighter future for all.

Image of Sarah Turck

Sarah Turck 

Running for Ward 2 Councillor

Contact, website, and/or social media

Platform message

I have been attending our council meetings for a while now, and it is apparent that we need better communication, a clear process, and a way to move forward on many matters. I have over 10 years of progressive financial experience and education. As an individual who works in the financial world on a daily basis I will be a strong addition in helping with the budget. I believe in collecting all the facts and understanding them. I am someone who is proactive and not reactive. I know that change does not happen overnight. It happens through methodical planning and consistency. My roots are planted firmly in this community. I know building a better tomorrow starts with a positive foundation today. Choose me to be the positive foundation for our community. VOTE TURCK FOR COUNCILLOR