Christopher Cummings for Mayor

10/19/2026

THE CASE FOR MAYOR CUMMINGS

Experience. Leadership. A Plan for Smiths Falls.

By Christopher Cummings

Over the past several months, I’ve knocked on doors, visited businesses, attended community events, and spoken with hundreds of Smiths Falls residents.

I’ve heard concerns about property taxes, water rates, rising costs, vacant storefronts, infrastructure, healthcare, and the future of our community.

One word has come up repeatedly:

CHANGE.

I understand that feeling. But I believe the important question is not simply whether we need change. It’s what needs to change, what is working well, and how we can make meaningful progress.

That’s what this election means to me.

EXPERIENCE THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE

I bring 12 years of experience on Smiths Falls Town Council, 40 years in financial services, and extensive leadership experience in education, healthcare, business, and community organizations.

During my municipal service, I worked with three different councils. We didn’t always agree, but we accomplished important things because we listened, respected different opinions, and found ways to move forward.

I’ve taken that same approach into other leadership roles.

My fellow trustees elected me Chair of the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario, and my fellow directors selected me to chair Rideau Community Health Services.

I’ve also served on our Police Services Board, Library Board, Museum Boards, and Economic Development Boards.

These experiences taught me that effective leadership isn’t about winning arguments. It’s about building relationships, understanding complex issues, making responsible decisions, and getting things done.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT MUST BE A PRIORITY

I believe a stronger local economy is fundamental to addressing many of the concerns residents have raised.

In 2007 and 2008, Smiths Falls lost approximately 1,700 jobs. I was on council during that difficult period and helped initiate an economic development approach involving local businesses, community leaders, and other levels of government.

We worked to restore confidence, attract investment, and create employment opportunities. Over time, businesses returned, jobs were created, and optimism grew.

Today, we face different economic challenges, including inflation, trade uncertainty, vacant commercial properties, and pressure on household finances.

My plan includes renewed business outreach, supporting existing employers, attracting investment, strengthening our downtown, and bringing underused commercial and industrial properties back into productive use.

My business banking career gave me firsthand experience working with entrepreneurs, investors, and companies considering where to locate or expand.

I understand what businesses look for when making investment decisions.

Economic growth creates opportunities. Economic prosperity helps sustain our
Community.

RESPONSIBLE FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

Residents have been clear that municipal spending and future tax increases are major concerns.

My financial background includes helping families, businesses, and organizations prepare long-term financial plans.

I believe the Town needs a comprehensive municipal service review to examine spending, identify efficiencies, and ensure taxpayers receive value for their money.

We must distinguish between what we have to have and what would be nice to have.

Essential infrastructure, public safety, and core services must remain priorities. Desirable improvements also have value, but their timing must reflect our financial capacity.

I also recognize that previous councils have completed worthwhile projects. We should build on those accomplishments while learning from projects that exceeded their budgets.

My goal is responsible financial planning that reduces unnecessary pressure on taxpayers without compromising essential services.

A COMMUNITY THAT WORKS TOGETHER

Smiths Falls cannot address every challenge alone.

We need strong relationships with neighbouring municipalities, businesses, community organizations, and provincial and federal governments.

I’ve seen what collaboration can accomplish, from municipal infrastructure projects to securing provincial funding for new schools and school additions.

I also believe residents deserve accessible, responsive local government.

That’s why I’ve proposed strengthening the Office of the Mayor as a place where residents can seek help navigating services and connecting with organizations that may assist them.

Whether someone is looking for healthcare, housing support, food assistance, or other community resources, we should help them find the right people and programs.

I also support continued doctor recruitment, responsible planning for recreational facilities, and examining opportunities to control rising policing costs while maintaining community safety.

These priorities require cooperation, sound financial decisions, and realistic planning.

WHAT RISE AT THE FALLS MEANS TO ME

In 2017, our council adopted the motto Rise at the Falls.

It reflected the optimism returning to Smiths Falls after years of economic hardship.

But those words have always meant something more personal to me.

Years ago, I attended a county meeting where I heard elected officials from outside Smiths Falls suggest that people experiencing economic hardship were being directed toward our community.

I later discussed those comments with then-Mayor Dennis Staples.

Dennis told me he was aware of that attitude, but he was proud that Smiths Falls had always been a community that looked after people.

His words stayed with me.

I grew up with a single mother who immigrated to Canada and raised four children. We lived in a trailer, and there were times when putting food on the table was difficult.

I started volunteering when I was just ten years old. Those early experiences helped shape my belief in community service and the importance of giving people opportunities to succeed.

To me, Rise at the Falls means more than economic recovery.

It means helping people rise, too.

LOOKING AHEAD

I live in Smiths Falls. I’ve raised my family here, worked here, volunteered here, and served this community for decades.

I respect what previous councils have accomplished, but I also recognize that changing circumstances require new priorities and approaches.

My commitment is to listen carefully, work collaboratively, make informed financial decisions, and place renewed emphasis on economic development.

I believe Smiths Falls has tremendous potential, and I believe my experience can help turn that potential into progress.

Because when Smiths Falls rises, we should all have the opportunity to rise with it.

Christopher Cummings

Candidate for Mayor of Smiths Falls

Listen. Collaborate. Advocate. Act.

Public figure

10/19/2026

💉 Flu Vaccine Clinics

Flu season is upon us, and we’re offering flu vaccine clinics for our Primary Care clients and Registered Community Clinic clients!

📅 Dates: October 28 and November 4, 2026
🕓 Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 Locations: Smiths Falls and Merrickville

To schedule your appointment, please call:

📞 Smiths Falls: 613-283-1952
📞 Merrickville: 613-269-3400

Help protect yourself this flu season! We look forward to seeing you.

10/18/2026

NEARLY 1,500 DOORS. 560 SURVEY RESPONSES. MORE THAN 200 CAMPAIGN SIGNS. AND COUNTLESS CONVERSATIONS.

But behind every number is a person, and that's what this campaign has always been about.

As we enter the final stretch of this municipal election, I've been reflecting on everything that has happened since I registered as a candidate on May 1st.

And before anything else, I want to say THANK YOU, SMITHS FALLS!

When I officially announced my candidacy, more than 75 people stepped forward within hours to offer their help. I was overwhelmed by that response, and the support has continued to grow ever since.

Since May 1st, I've knocked on close to 1,500 doors throughout our community.

I've documented hundreds upon hundreds of conversations at kitchen tables, on front porches, in driveways, on sidewalks and at doorsteps.

560 residents took the time to complete my online survey, providing valuable insight into what people love about Smiths Falls, what concerns them, and what they hope to see in the future.

I've had the opportunity to meet with major employers, small business owners, service clubs and business organizations. I've been invited into apartment buildings to sit with residents, listen to their concerns and hear their ideas.

I've spoken with people who have called Smiths Falls home their entire lives and others who moved here less than a year ago.

Some conversations were about taxes, water rates, employment opportunities and the cost of living. Others were about our beautiful parks, our downtown, our history and the many reasons people are proud to call Smiths Falls home.

Every conversation mattered. Every opinion was appreciated.

And then there are the people who made this campaign possible.

Volunteers have knocked on doors alongside me, documented conversations, delivered thousands of pieces of campaign literature, designed and maintained my website, helped with social media and spread the word throughout our community.

They've walked with me through hot, humid summer afternoons, rainy days and chilly fall evenings. Not once did I hear a complaint.

More than 200 residents and business owners welcomed my campaign signs onto their lawns and into their windows.

Others proudly wore campaign shirts, hats and buttons. They spoke with family members, friends, neighbours and coworkers. They encouraged conversations about the future of our town.

I can't begin to tell you how much that means to me.

Something else has been especially meaningful.

Over the past 30 years, I've had the privilege of volunteering and working alongside some remarkable people in this community. Many of those same people have reached out during this campaign to offer encouragement, advice, support and friendship.

Some have known me for decades. Others I've only recently met.

To have earned their confidence and encouragement is something I will never take for granted.

And of course, I owe an enormous thank-you to my family.

My wife, my children, my brothers and my sister have been there every step of the way. They have offered their time, patience, encouragement and unconditional support through what has been a very busy six months.

I couldn't have done this without them.

When I began this campaign, I made a commitment to listen before developing my platform.

I wanted to understand what residents were thinking, what challenges they were facing and what they believed our community needed.

Thanks to all of you, I believe I've been able to do exactly that.

The conversations, survey responses, meetings and countless exchanges have helped shape a platform built around the priorities of the people who live and work here.

But perhaps the most important thing I've taken away from this experience is a renewed appreciation for the people of Smiths Falls.

There is an incredible amount of pride in this community. There are people who care deeply about its future, who want to see it succeed and who are willing to give their time and energy to make that happen.

That is the greatest strength Smiths Falls has. Its people.

As we approach Election Day on October 26th, I am humbled by the encouragement, generosity and friendship that so many of you have shown me.

Whether you volunteered, completed a survey, displayed a sign, attended an event, shared a social media post, offered advice or simply stopped to have a conversation, please know that I am sincerely grateful.

And to those who took the time to challenge my thinking or share a different perspective, thank you as well. Listening means hearing everyone, not just those who agree with you.

Whatever happens on Election Day, the experiences and friendships of these past six months are something I will always treasure.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for believing in me, for sharing your ideas and for caring so deeply about the future of Smiths Falls.

We have a wonderful community, and I believe its best days can still be ahead of us.

Christopher Cummings
Candidate for Mayor of Smiths Falls

Listen. Collaborate. Advocate. Act.

10/17/2026

I was so humbled and touched to receive this water colour painting from the Smiths Falls Public Library Board earlier this year. The board had this commissioned to honour me for the 30+ years of volunteer work. When I was transferred to the area by the bank I was working for at the time, Smiths Falls was where my family and I chose to live. One of the first places I visited with my family was the library. The bank told me I could live in Perth, Carleton Place or Kemptville...I chose Smiths Falls for many reasons but the library was at the top of the list. I definitely have never regretted my decision and volunteering over all of these years has been my pleasure.

10/14/2026

10/11/2026

The People Who Make Smiths Falls a Better Place

Over the past several months, I’ve spent a lot of time talking about my experience, my ideas for Smiths Falls, and what I believe I can contribute as Mayor.

But there’s another part of my life that I haven’t talked about nearly enough. And that’s volunteering.

For more than 32 years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some remarkable people who give their time, energy and talents to make Smiths Falls a better place to live.

Over those years, I’ve given hundreds and hundreds of hours alongside other community volunteers. Together, we’ve raised money for recreational facilities, sports fields, parks, our hospital and local museums. I’ve also been involved in downtown business improvement projects, mentored young entrepreneurs and volunteered at local schools.

Sometimes the work meant organizing an event or helping someone get started. Other times, it meant working through difficult decisions around a boardroom table or helping an organization plan for the future. In every case, it brought me together with people who cared about our town and wanted to make it better.

One of the things I’m most proud of is my involvement with the Smiths Falls Public Library. Over three decades, I’ve served as a trustee, volunteer, fundraiser and leader, working with the Friends of the Library and the Board of Trustees. I’ve been fortunate to play a leadership role during a period of tremendous change for an institution that means so much to our community.

For the past six years, I’ve also devoted considerable time to providing leadership and governance at Rideau Community Health Services, helping ensure that this important organization continues to thrive and provide much-needed health care services to residents.

I’ve also had the honour of serving as a provincial appointee, helping award grants to municipalities and non-profit organizations that improve people’s lives.

But here’s what I really want to say.

Not one of those accomplishments happened because of one person.

Behind every successful fundraiser, every community project, every improved facility and every organization that continues to serve our residents, there are people who quietly give their time without expecting anything in return.

Smiths Falls is fortunate to have service clubs, community organizations, dedicated boards and committees, and countless individual volunteers who have been doing this work for generations.

I’ve worked beside many of them. I’ve learned from them. And I’ve developed friendships that have lasted decades.

Some of these people are well known in our community. Many aren’t. They don’t seek recognition. They simply see something that needs doing and roll up their sleeves.

Those are the people who deserve our thanks.

My years of volunteering have also taught me something about leadership. You don’t accomplish much by working alone. You need people who care, people who bring different ideas to the table, and people who are willing to work together.

That’s a lesson I learned long before deciding to run for Mayor, and it’s one I would bring to the job every day.

I’m proud of the part I’ve played in helping our community over the years. But I’m even prouder of the people I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside.

To everyone who has ever volunteered their time to make Smiths Falls a better place, thank you. Our community is stronger because of you.

Is there a volunteer in Smiths Falls who you believe deserves a little recognition?

Please mention them in the comments. I’d love to see us celebrate some of the people who have quietly made such a difference in our town.

Christopher Cummings

10/07/2026

NICE TO HAVE vs. HAVE TO HAVE

During this campaign, I have heard a lot of concern about municipal spending.

Some residents believe the Town has been spending too much. I understand that concern. At the same time, I think we need to be fair. This council has completed some good and necessary infrastructure projects.

But there have also been projects where costs increased significantly from the original estimates. That raises a fair question:

When the price changes dramatically, should we simply keep going—or should we stop, reassess the project, and ask whether there is a better or more affordable way?

My answer is that we should reassess.

One of my former economics professors used to say:

“Proper Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance.”

I have never forgotten it.

That principle followed me throughout my career in financial services.

For years, part of my job was helping families, businesses and organizations create long-term financial plans. You started by understanding what they needed, what they wanted, what they could afford, and what they needed to prepare for down the road.

In simple terms, we often had to separate the “Have to Haves” from the “Nice to Haves.”

But there is another important part of that conversation.

There is nothing wrong with a “Nice to Have” when you are in a financial position to afford it.

Families understand that. Businesses understand it. Municipalities should too.

Investments that aren't absolutely necessary can still make our community a better place to live. They can improve our parks and public spaces, support recreation, beautify our community and strengthen the pride residents have in the place they call home.

Those things have value.

The question is whether we can afford them after we have properly planned for the things we have to have.

That is why long-term financial and infrastructure planning matters.

Good planning doesn't guarantee that a project will never run into problems. Construction costs change. Unexpected issues come up. But good planning can reduce surprises. And when circumstances change, good management means being willing to change the plan too.

The same applies to consultants and studies.

I have heard residents say the Town spends too much money on consultants for work that could be done by existing staff. In some cases, I think that criticism is fair.

But consultants and studies are sometimes necessary. Certain grant applications require professional studies or specialized expertise that the Town simply doesn't have in-house. Spending money on a study that helps secure significant outside funding for an essential infrastructure project can be money well spent.

Again, it comes down to asking the right questions:

Do we have the expertise on staff?
Is the study actually required?
Will it help us secure outside funding?
Do we need the project now?
Can we afford it?
Is it a “have to have” or a “nice to have”?

That is where Priority #2 and Priority #4 of my platform come together.

I want a thorough review of municipal services and spending to identify efficiencies and reduce pressure on taxpayers. And I want better long-term planning for our infrastructure so we understand what needs to be done, when it needs to be done, and what we can realistically afford.

Smiths Falls will always have limited resources. We can't do everything at once.

Sometimes leadership means saying yes.

Sometimes it means saying not yet.

And sometimes it means saying no.

After years of helping families, businesses and organizations build financial plans, I learned that good financial management isn't about never spending money on things you want.

It's about taking care of what you need, planning for what you know is coming, and then deciding what you can afford to make life better.

I believe the same principle should apply to Smiths Falls.

We need to take care of the “have to haves.”

And when our finances allow it, we should never be afraid to invest in some of the “nice to haves” that make people proud to call Smiths Falls home.

Listen. Collaborate. Advocate. Act.

10/06/2026

PROPERTY TAXES — WHY I ANSWERED “NO”

At the Mayoral Candidates night, I was asked an important question about property taxes.

The question stated that a property assessed at $400,000 would pay:

Carleton Place — $5,520
Perth — $6,596
Smiths Falls — $8,452

I was then asked: “Is this a concern for you?”

My answer was No.

Since the debate, a few people have told me they didn't understand that answer or questioned whether I heard the question correctly. That's fair. The sound was off and I had 90 seconds, and this is not an easy subject to explain in that amount of time.

So let me explain why I answered the way I did.

I understood the premise of the question to be that property taxes are substantially higher if you choose to live in Smiths Falls rather than Perth or Carleton Place.

Based on my experience, I don't believe that is a fair comparison.

My background probably caused me to hear that question a little differently.

I spent several decades in financial services, including providing financing to people buying homes throughout Smiths Falls, Perth and Carleton Place. I had conversations with homebuyers about purchase prices, assessments and property taxes over and over again.

My education is in finance and municipal taxation. I also worked for MPAC and for some of Canada's largest financial institutions.

So when I heard the question, I didn't just think about three properties with the same assessment.

I thought about the question a homebuyer would actually ask:

“If I buy a similar house, what will I actually pay in property taxes in each community?”

That's a very different comparison.

The original question assumes a $400,000 assessment in all three communities.

But a $400,000 assessment in Smiths Falls does not necessarily buy or represent the same type of property as a $400,000 assessment in Perth or Carleton Place.

The average residential assessments help demonstrate this.

Smiths Falls — $172,983
Perth — $229,000
Carleton Place — $293,000

That means the average residential assessment is about 32% higher in Perth and about 69% higher in Carleton Place than in Smiths Falls.

So let's use the figures from the original debate question but adjust the assessments using those average differences.

If a similar home were assessed at $400,000 in Smiths Falls, the illustrative comparable assessments would be approximately:

Smiths Falls — $400,000
Perth — $529,500
Carleton Place — $677,500

Using the tax figures presented in the debate question, the estimated annual property taxes become:

🏠 Smiths Falls — $8,452

🏠 Perth — $8,731

🏠 Carleton Place — $9,350

That's why I answered No.

I was not saying property taxes don't matter. Of course they do.

I was saying that I don't accept the premise that someone choosing a similar home in Smiths Falls necessarily faces a substantially higher property tax bill simply because our tax rate is higher.

The tax rate is only one part of the calculation. The assessment that rate is applied to matters just as much.

And I want to be clear about something else.

The example above is an illustration using average assessment differences. It is not an individual MPAC appraisal. Every property is different.

So am I concerned about keeping taxes affordable? Absolutely.

Families are dealing with increases in groceries, utilities, insurance, housing and almost every other household expense.

Municipal government should not add unnecessary pressure.

My goal is to find ways to limit future tax increases as much as reasonably possible and, wherever we can, keep increases from exceeding the normal growth in the cost of living.

That means reviewing municipal services and spending to make sure taxpayers are getting value for their money.

It means growing our commercial and industrial assessment base.

It means attracting investment, supporting existing businesses and putting vacant and underused properties back to productive use.

And it means encouraging responsible development so that the cost of municipal services is shared across a larger assessment base.

So I stand behind the answer I gave at the debate.

No — I don't believe the comparison presented proves that choosing Smiths Falls means paying substantially higher property taxes for a similar home.

But yes — keeping taxes affordable and reducing the pressure for future increases will absolutely be a priority for me as Mayor.

Those are two very different things.

And after 40 years working with financial decisions, I believe we serve taxpayers best when we look beyond the headline number and understand the whole picture.

Listen. Collaborate. Advocate. Act.