My philosophy is rooted in the belief that true leadership is defined by transparency and a relentless commitment to community service. I believe in empowering every voice, ensuring that our collective future is built on a foundation of integrity, shared responsibility, and a vision that prioritizes the well-being of every citizen.
Leadership for Our Future
The Future of Centre Wellington
Good government should always strive to make it easy for citizens and taxpayers to be good, healthy, prosperous, successful, and happy.
We have rapidly grown into the opposite. Taxes in Centre Wellington have increased by 47.5% over the past 12 years and by more than 18% in the last four years.
Affordable housing has stalled or is non-existent, while talking, hand-wringing, and more meetings have become the norm. The over-regulation of projects causes increased delays, and every transaction involved in doing business or living in Centre Wellington is burdened by an expensive array of fees and tolls designed to satisfy an ever-growing and increasingly costly bureaucracy.
We appear to be divided into two groups: a connected stakeholder class that is being paid and awarded contracts, and taxpayers who are left to bear all the costs. It is time for real change.
The world is in transition. Canada is undergoing a major transition, while Ontario’s economy remains stuck, with growth having stalled. Centre Wellington needs leadership that will get back to the basics of financial accountability, restart economic growth and development, promote democratic reform and accountability, and address the status quo at the County, where 55% of our taxes go.
Too many people remain comfortably conformist and unwilling to have the serious and difficult conversations required to address the county an institution stuck in the 19th century and thwarting Centre Wellington’s growth.
We must enhance and preserve our community and cultural heritage while promoting rural economic opportunities through deregulation that supports housing and economic development.
I am Stephen Kitras, and I have the experience, fortitude, and leadership abilities to be the change Centre Wellington needs.
The Journey to Public Service
Stephen has been living in Centre Wellington for almost four-decades, developing a deep-rooted appreciation for the community’s heritage and values.
With over three decades of experience as a local business owner, Stephen has a proven track record of leadership and organizational management. He understands the economic challenges facing our town and has consistently worked to foster sustainable growth while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
His transition to public service is driven by a commitment to transparency and a desire to give back to the community that has supported him. Stephen believes in a government that listens to its citizens and acts with integrity to ensure a prosperous future for all residents.