Five questions with Louise Severson, candidate for Brockville council in the 2026 municipal election

Editor’s note: To help voters to be better informed, Brockvilleist will be asking the same five questions of all council candidates in advance of the municipal election, which will be held on Monday, Oct. 26, 2026. Questions were sent to all candidates on Sept. 4, 2026. We will publish their responses as we receive them. Below are the responses from candidate Louise Severson. You can view a full roundup of all our Brockville municipal coverage here.

1. Tell us a little bit about your professional background, including any prior municipal or other political participation, as well as about you, personally. What made you want to run for council?

I have been small business for over 40 years. The first business was The Stag Shoppe, which was men’s and ladies’ clothing and was located in downtown Brockville across from New York Restaurant. The last business was opened in 1991, Severson Dry Cleaners in the Plaza on William Street. We ran the business for 32 years and sold it three years ago to my son. I was a councillor in the City of Brockville for 10 years, then ran for mayor and lost a very close race. I ran for a council seat in 2022 and was elected for a four year term.

2. How would you describe your personal political ideology and/or affiliation?

I would describe myself as independent and community focused. I am not linked to any political party, but rather believe in doing what is best for Brockville and residents .

3. What are the three most common issues voters bring up to you as you campaign?

Three issues that citizens bring to me are:

Affordable housing and homelessness.

Trying to maintain services while at same time keeping taxes lower.

The state of our downtown and attracting business and industry to our city.

4. What three issues are most pressing/important to address locally in your opinion?

I believe the City should bring back a strong Finance Committee to work with staff. This will enable the mayor and council to be better engaged in financial decisions.

Affordable housing and homelessness are very important issues.

Accessibility issues are very important to me ,and continuing to address those issues with staff and working toward a future where Brockville can call itself a fully accessible community.

5. What do you feel sets you apart from other candidates?

What sets me apart has always been my ability to work hard for the citizens and address their concerns. I am very honest and caring about the City of Brockville, and have an ability to really listen to and understand their concerns.