Monique Antoine-Hartley joins Leeds and Thousand Islands council

A new face will represent Ward 2 on the Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands council.

Monique Antoine-Hartley was appointed to the seat vacated by Mark Jamison’s retirement at the end of December.

Antoine-Hartley, a lifelong resident of Seeley’s Bay, brings 38 years of experience in education and strong community involvement to the role.

“I’ve been a close observer of township activity and appreciate the efforts of both Coun. (Angela) Kelman and Coun. Jamison, as they represent and represented Ward 2 with integrity,” she told council during her interview.

“I was born here, but it was my choice to stay, work, marry, raise my daughter, give back, and love this community and all that it offers.”

She adds that her connections to the community and her professional skills make her a strong choice to represent the ward. Antoine-Hartley was one of five candidates considered for the position, alongside former councillor John Paul Jackson, Sara Jean Meurling, Todd Robertson, and Brian Woodford.

A vote was held, with Antoine-Hartley securing a majority at 4-1-1.

Mayor Corinna Smith-Gatcke, Deputy Mayor Terry Fodey, Coun. Angela Kelman and Coun. Brian Mabee voted for Antoine-Hartley. Coun. Brock Gorrell voted for John Paul Jackson. Coun. Jeff Lackie voted for Todd Robertson.

Antoine-Hartley expressed her eagerness to serve.

“My motivation is to work collaboratively and respectfully with council and staff, to give a voice to our residents and help them make sense of the new realities as they navigate the changing world we’re all faced with,” she said.

Council members welcomed her appointment, with Smith-Gatcke saying: “On behalf of council, I wish to welcome Councillor Antoine-Hartley and am looking forward to working with her.”

However, the voting process sparked an issue with Coun. Gorrell, who raised concerns about the transparency of the procedure. The votes were read aloud to the councillors and public, so all involved knew who voted for whom.

Gorrell called it “unfair” and suggested the matter be discussed privately.

Chief administrative officer Stephen Donachey and township clerk, Michelle Hannah clarified that the Municipal Act did not allow for in-camera discussions on the matter, reinforcing that the appointment process followed council-approved guidelines.