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Barnard Baker

Candidate For Mayor

I’m running for Mayor of South Algonquin with a focus on protecting the services our residents rely on, supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and planning responsibly for future growth.

I served for 29 years in the Royal Canadian Air Force and later managed training for Canadarm2 aboard the International Space Station. My family has owned property here for more than 40 years, and today I’m proud to call Whitney home and to have the opportunity to serve the community I love.

About

My connection to South Algonquin began more than 40 years ago when my father and I purchased property here. Today, my wife Merna Hymers and I live in Whitney, where we greatly enjoy our friends, neighbours, and community.

I joined the Royal Canadian Air Force at 17 and served for 29 years in technical and engineering roles. After retiring from the RCAF, I spent nearly 10 years as Training Manager for Canadarm2 aboard the International Space Station. My career has taken me across Canada, but South Algonquin is the place I am proud to call home.

Why I'm Running

I’m running for Mayor because I want to serve the people of South Algonquin and help build a strong and sustainable future for our township.

I believe we can protect the services residents depend on while encouraging responsible growth, supporting our existing businesses, creating employment opportunities, and giving residents a meaningful voice in planning our future.

Key Priorities

Protect Township Services

Maintain the services residents rely on and continue delivering them for the benefit of our communities.

Support Business & Employment

Help existing businesses grow while encouraging new businesses that create local jobs.

Responsible Community Growth

Plan future growth carefully and attract people and businesses that will strengthen the township.

Residents at the Table

Give residents opportunities to participate in identifying and shaping South Algonquin’s future.

Experience & Community Involvment

  • Veteran - Retired as Captain B.G. Baker
  • 29 years of service with the Royal Canadian Air Force
  • Worked with the International Space Station program
  • Nearly 10 years managing training for Canadarm2 on the International Space Station
  • Worked as an Aircraft Engine Technician
  • Worked as an Aircraft Electrician
  • Served as a Flight Simulator Technician
  • Served as an Aerospace Engineering Officer
  • Holds a Bachelor of Science
  • Holds professional engineering technology credentials
  • Lived and worked in communities across Canada
  • Property owner in South Algonquin for more than 40 years
  • Sat on the South Algonquin Economic Development Commitee

Where I Stand

I believe South Algonquin should protect the services residents already value while creating opportunities for responsible growth. Our township should support existing businesses, encourage entrepreneurship, attract appropriate new investment, and create more local employment.

Maintain What Works
Protect existing township services and ensure they continue benefiting residents.

Grow Local Business
Support established businesses and encourage residents who want to start businesses of their own.

Attract Responsible Investment
Welcome new businesses that fit our communities and can create employment and attract new residents.

Plan Growth Together
Give residents a meaningful role in identifying opportunities and developing a vision for the township’s future.

Strengthen Our Communities
Encourage community activities that bring neighbours together and help maintain supportive, connected communities.