This post is the tenth in a series in which we reached out to municipal candidates to ask their heritage platform. Responses will be posted in the order received.
Andrew George was the tenth candidate to respond. He is running for Council to represent Ward 1 – the catchment area of which is Essex Centre.
- How should Essex address demolition by neglect? Do you see this as a municipal responsibility?
Are there instances at this time where heritage buildings are being neglected? Seems to me we have very good caretakers. To my knowledge, Windsor and Amherstburg councils have struggled with the responsibility of demolition, and there have also been political games played by putting heritage designations on not important properties to prevent demolition. It is my view that municipalities fund museums to preserve our heritage, of which we have a couple neat ones. We should be very reluctant to put any sort of conditions or directions on individual private properties.
- What role should council play in strengthening heritage conservation overall?
I am very environmentally conscious and it pains me that we do basically zero education or conservancy of our native flora and fauna. These activities could be actively described as heritage conservation, and perhaps if so, would get more attention. What is more important – a century home that has been standing for 100 years, or a living species native to this region since time immemorial?
- What is your favourite heritage landmark in Essex?
I have toured The Essex House, owned by Laurie Kowtiuk, which just received full heritage designations, and it’s wonderful the lengths she has gone to preserve it. Commending such efforts is important to encourage more of it.
Featured picture of Andrew George from the Spec.
English (United States) 
English (Canada)
Thank You Andrew, I love the past being saved.