Christine McKenzie For Ward 5 Councillor
About Christine
Christine and her family put down roots in Uxbridge 15 years ago when deciding where to raise their children.
Christine’s heart and strengths lie in stewardship and service to others. She is experienced and effective.
Christine is a mediator, a former human resources manager and labour negotiator, and a passionate community volunteer. She holds a degree in Zoology and a Master of Laws in Dispute Resolution.
Christine chairs the Uxbridge Environmental and Sustainability Advisory Committee and sits on the Uxbridge Library Board and Fence Viewers Committee. She is also a scout leader with 1st Uxbridge Scouts, and the Drum Major of Uxbridge Legion Pipes and Drums.
Good governance, committed leadership, and respect: for every individual, for our history, and for our bright future.
Good Governance
Is about making the most informed, responsible, and best decisions to achieve clear objectives. It requires accountability, transparency, integrity, and commitment. It means being proactive, and holding a higher standard than politics.
STRATEGIC
ACTION
As we look to our future, strong and responsible voices in leadership are critical to protect what we cherish and embrace what will make us stronger.
EXPERTISE IN OUR COMMUNITY
Our community holds a wealth of experience and expertise, and the best leaders surround themselves with smart people. We can do this better; a well-advised and inclusive Council means a healthy and sustainable Uxbridge.
UNITED LEADERSHIP
Our Council needs more leaders who bring a broader range of perspectives and expertise, and a solid commitment to each other and to the effort it takes to get the job done.
A New and Experienced Voice on Council
Here’s what I offer to support the good governance of Uxbridge:
I'M A HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER.
I come to the table as a strategic business partner responsible for managing an organization's most valuable asset. I understand the importance of balancing a multitude of individual concerns and voices with fair processes and a cohesive plan to achieve the organization's goals. Managing policy and legal risk is an important part of my job, but even more important is open and effective communication, and forward-thinking strategy. Being an HR Manager in these turbulent times requires adaptability, and the ability to see ahead of the curve. Our Council will benefit from my experience and perspective.
I'M A KIDS HELP PHONE CRISIS RESPONDER.
I talk to people in their hardest moments, and help them move from a place of fear, to a calmer state. I understand how to build rapport, explore tough issues, and focus on next steps. I don't tell people what to do- I empower them to take ownership of their wellbeing, and focus on what is within their control. The ability to remain calm and focused in moments of crisis is an essential skill in leadership.
I'M A SCOUT LEADER.
I believe in teaching our youth the values of community service, independence, and teamwork. I am immensely proud of the contributions our scouting groups in Uxbridge make to our community, and I feel privileged to help youth discover what they are capable of with the support of leaders who empower them. I am passionate about encouraging a sense of civic responsibility in our community's next generation of leaders.
I'M RESOLUTION-DRIVEN.
I have a deep background in negotiation, mediation, and conflict resolution. I believe that people in disputes often share more common ground than they realize, and good agreements are not zero-sum equations. In my experience, the best way to encourage goodwill and reciprocity is to meet people at a human level, and work hard to understand and appreciate their values, experiences, pressures, and worldview. I have found that most people have more in common than not: we want to feel heard and understood, we want to be treated with respect, and we want to contribute to something bigger than ourselves.
I BRING A SCIENCE-BASED PERSPECTIVE.
I spent a decade at the Toronto Zoo working on conservation efforts with some of Canada's most endangered species. I also chaired the Uxbridge Environmental (Watershed) Committee for four years and still serve on it. I understand the environmental pressures that face our Town and Region, and believe the most responsible way to address them is by understanding the science, and building strategic relationships to achieve the best possible solutions.
