Your township.
Your Voice.
Accountable Leadership.

I’m Carlene Hawley, running for Woolwich Township Council - Ward 1 - Elmira

Woolwich Residents: Details regarding our local municipal election can be found here:

Municipal Election: October 26 

 

"Responsible governance starts with listening to residents, acting transparently and treating everyone with respect."

About Carlene:

• Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA)
• Former CFO 
• Hands-on experience
• Working mom of four
• Community advocate, volunteer and your neighbour

 

I've lived in Elmira for 21 years and other rural communities before that. My husband and I chose this community because we believe in what it offers... real connection, neighbours who show up for each other and a place where heritage is important and family, faith and community come first.

Professionally, I'm a CPA with over 25 years of experience in finance, healthcare, and non-profit work in both the private and public sectors. I currently lead financial planning and capital forecasting for one of Ontario's largest healthcare redevelopment initiatives. This is work that requires careful planning, transparency, and responsible stewardship of public dollars.

Before that, I directed finance at the KW YWCA, managed farm accounting, helped small businesses and farms with accountability and books and worked in daycare financial management. I also recognized the need for community connections and started a local homeschooling co-op, serve on the Board of Directors at Ray of Hope, and volunteered across Elmira and throughout the region.

What drives me is simple: helping people and communities thrive! Not through grand gestures, but through careful listening, good questions, and genuine partnership.

A fantastic region I am proud to call home...

Why I'm Running

Over the past several months, people I respect have encouraged me to consider municipal government. Their confidence in me, combined with many thoughtful conversations about Elmira's future, led me to carefully consider how I could best serve.

I'm not running because I want a political career. That is simply not how I am wired.  I'm running because I believe I can make a meaningful difference right here at home and because I believe in something fundamental: good government requires ongoing conversation between councillors and the people they serve.... Good government doesn't happen only in the council chamber. It happens when elected representatives and the people they serve know one another, listen to one another, and remain accountable to one another.

That's the kind of representation Elmira deserves.

Register Your Support 

Why This Election Matters

Woolwich is at a transition point. We're experiencing growth and change and with that come important questions about our future.

How do we grow without losing what makes Elmira special? How do we plan responsibly for infrastructure, services, and community character while being fiscally thoughtful? Who do we trust to ask good questions and listen carefully before deciding?

The central question many voters are really asking: "Who do I trust to make thoughtful decisions about the future of Woolwich and who will actually listen to me?"

Elections matter because they give us the chance to meet one another, share concerns, ask questions, and build real relationships. When someone enters office through acclamation with no opportunity for a vote, we lose something important: the chance to hear different perspectives, challenge ideas, and begin the accountability that makes democracy work.

I believe an election isn't about finding the best plan... It's about building relationships with the people you'll represent. 

I hope more people will consider running. Both here and in the other wards and townships. Your community benefits when candidates come to your door, listen to your hopes and concerns and remain accountable to you throughout their term.


What I'll Work On

As your councillor, I'll focus on four core commitments:


Thoughtful Growth

Growth can strengthen Elmira but only if we manage it carefully. Before approving major development, we need to ask: Are roads adequate? Are services ready? Will this preserve what makes our community special? Growth should strengthen us, not change who we are.


Responsible Stewardship of Your Tax Dollars

Every tax dollar represents a household decision. Council must be transparent about priorities, distinguish between essential services and desirable improvements, while planning for long-term financial health. You deserve to understand what you're paying for and why.


Strong, Connected Communities

Strong communities don't happen by accident. They're built by volunteers, churches, service organizations, and local businesses. I will actively support the people and institutions that make Elmira thrive and help residents feel heard and valued.


Infrastructure That Keeps Pace

Our roads, parks, services, and recreation opportunities must support the community we're becoming. Investment should be strategic and thoughtful, matching growth with the infrastructure residents depend on every day.

Proud to be Canadian!
Investing in the next generation: Carlene engages at the Youth Summit in Ottawa - Always a fantastic group of students!
Click to view image
Click to view image
Flipping pancakes at the Elmira Maple Syrup Festival (Woolwich) with Harold Albrecht (former MP for Kitchener-Conestoga) and Mark Dotzert

Carlene's proven commitment to Elmira and the region runs deep.

 

Let's Talk

This campaign is built on real conversations. Whether you want to share your thoughts, volunteer, or just stay informed, I'd genuinely love to hear from you.

When I come to your door, please open it. Ask me questions. Tell me what matters most to you... That conversation is the whole point.

Contact:
Phone: (226) 749-1079
Email: votecarlenehawley@gmail.com



 

Carlene's proven commitment to Elmira and the region runs deep.

 

  

Volunteer Tree Planting with Trees for Woolwich

Volunteering

Proud to serve

Carlene seeks your nomination with the authenticity and hard work she has showcased since day one.

In October's municipal election, elect Carlene Hawley for Woolwich, Ward 1 councillor.

Register Your Support

Yes, Carlene, I stand with you! 
Let’s work together to ensure our amazing community and township thrive. Count on my vote.

* Required


If you prefer, feel free to call or text me at:
(226) 749-1079

Or email me at:
XXXX@carlenehawley.ca