A longtime volunteer, community advocate, and supply chain professional is ready to make the leap into municipal politics.

Casey Billing, who moved to Clarence-Rockland in 2020, is running to be the next City Councillor for Ward 4.

As of press time, Billing is the only candidate registered in the ward that is current served by Samuel Cardarelli.

“I grew up in a small town with good people and good neighbours,” he said. “I think with my life experience, I can be a strong voice for our residents.”

Since moving to Clarence-Rockland, Billing has wanted to be part of his community in any shape, way or form. He served for four years as the Chair of the City’s Community Development Advisory Committee, a role that exposed him directly to the ideas and struggles of residents regarding local parks, arts, culture, and recreation. Through his committee work, Billing realized that many taxpayer concerns and great ideas fell outside the advisory group’s narrow mandate. He is running for council to address these broader municipal infrastructure and community needs.

“I have had a chance to see the work that City and many of its partners have been doing has been an eye-opening experience,” added Billing. “Our city is growing rapidly, and we need to keep up with the residential and infrastructure growth and try and find ways for the city to develop in a sustainable way while meeting our needs.”

After working across Europe, Billing chose Clarence-Rockland because of its tight-knit, small-town atmosphere and its rich Franco-Ontarian culture.

“My partner grew up here, and it really reminded me of where I grew up,” he said. “There is something special about being in a place that has that small town feel.”

With over 20 years of experience in industrial and manufacturing supply chain management – all with the same company- with roles in finance, data analytics, project management, and Six Sigma change management, the Ward 4 candidate wants to bring a practical and collaborative approach to managing municipal growth.

If he’s elected, Billing wants to focus on community development, economic growth, sustainable infrastructure, and ensuring taxpayer dollars are invested in projects that residents want the most.

“I have the willingness to get involved and inform our residents what is happening in their community,” said Billing. “I am that person that is first to volunteer for something and help. I want to make a difference, and I want our residents to live in a city that is affordable, welcoming, and a place where they are proud to call home.”

Billing said as a neighbour first person, he is eager and excited to get out there, knock on doors, and hear what people have to say.

“I love this community, and I want to see it strive and succeed,” he said. “I am ready to get to work for our residents and our city.”