I asked residents what they love about Marathon, what concerns them, which issues deserve more attention and what they expect from the people representing them. Here is what I heard — and what it means to me.
Why I asked
When I decided to run for Marathon Town Council, I didn’t want my campaign to be only about telling people what I think.
I wanted to listen, too.
That’s why I created my Community Conversation questionnaire. I invited residents to tell me what they love about Marathon, what concerns them, which issues deserve more attention and what they expect from the people representing them.
I also wanted to hear about everyday life in our community. What is it like raising a family here? Aging here? Running a business? Accessing healthcare? Participating in recreation? Living with a disability? Do people feel safe, included and heard?
I promised I would read the responses and share what I heard.
Some people celebrated our community’s strengths. Others expressed frustration, identified challenges or questioned the direction Marathon is taking. Some offered practical ideas, while others shared personal experiences that helped me understand the issues more deeply.
And yes, some challenged me and the questions I asked.
I appreciated all of it.
What matters to me isn’t only the numbers. It’s understanding the experiences, concerns and ideas behind them.
Questionnaire results at a glance
When I asked which areas need the greatest attention over the next four years, respondents identified the following priorities.
Community priorities
| Priority | Selected |
|---|---|
| Communication and transparency | 58% |
| Parks, recreation and community spaces | 54% |
| Economic development and local business | 54% |
| Partnerships with neighbouring First Nations | 54% |
| Roads, sidewalks and snow removal | 50% |
| Responsible budgeting and tax dollars | 46% |
| Attracting and retaining residents | 38% |
| Arts, culture and community events | 33% |
| Affordable housing | 29% |
| Healthcare access, recruitment and retention | 25% |
| Tourism | 25% |
| Access to childcare | 25% |
| Water, sewer and municipal infrastructure | 13% |
| Accessibility and inclusion | 8% |
| Public safety and emergency services | 8% |
About the questionnaire: percentages are rounded and based on 24 completed questionnaires as of September 25, 2026. Participants could select multiple priorities, so the percentages do not total 100%. This was a voluntary questionnaire, not a representative survey of Marathon’s population.
The percentages provide a snapshot of the issues participants selected. Their written comments help explain why those issues matter.
One thing became particularly clear as I read through the responses: many of these concerns are connected. Housing affects recruitment. Recreation affects whether families stay. Infrastructure affects accessibility. And communication affects people’s confidence in municipal decisions.
Ten things I heard
-
1 of 10
People want to feel heard
Communication and transparency were selected by 58% of respondents, making them one of the most frequently identified priorities.
This concern also appeared throughout the written responses.
Some participants want more opportunities for public input, town halls, timely responses to correspondence and clearer explanations of municipal decisions. Others expressed frustration with how decisions are made and whether residents’ concerns are genuinely considered.
There was positive feedback, too. One respondent specifically identified the livestreaming of Council meetings as something the Town is doing well and should continue.
The responses revealed different experiences. Some participants felt residents’ voices were being heard reasonably well, while others felt they were not being heard at all.
What that means to me
Listening has been central to my work throughout my career.
But listening isn’t simply allowing someone to speak. It means being willing to consider what they’ve said, ask questions, seek information and explain your reasoning.
It also doesn’t mean agreeing with everyone.
I believe residents should have opportunities to understand municipal decisions, ask questions and know how they can participate.
As a councillor, I would be one voice and one vote at a collective table. I can be accountable for how I prepare, the questions I ask, the perspectives I consider and the decisions I make.
-
2 of 10
Responsible spending and affordability matter
Responsible budgeting and tax dollars were selected by 46% of respondents.
Financial concerns also appeared repeatedly in the written comments.
Participants raised questions about property taxes, major capital projects, municipal infrastructure and the long-term costs of maintaining services and facilities.
The Active Living Centre generated differing opinions.
Some respondents expressed strong support for the project and the opportunities it could create for recreation, families and the broader North Shore. Others questioned its cost, affordability and impact on taxpayers.
There were also concerns about existing facilities, including the library, arena, curling facilities and other municipal assets.
Underlying these comments was a recurring question: how do we balance investing in Marathon’s future with maintaining what we already have?
What that means to me
Fiscal responsibility isn’t simply about spending less. It involves understanding what we’re spending money on, why we’re spending it and what the long-term financial commitments will be.
Major projects deserve careful scrutiny, including capital costs, funding sources, operating expenses, maintenance and the effect on other municipal priorities.
The questionnaire reinforced the importance of looking beyond the immediate cost of a project.
I also believe it’s important to recognize that residents can share the same goal — a healthy, thriving community — while disagreeing about how to achieve it or how much the Town should spend.
-
3 of 10
Recreation is about much more than facilities
Parks, recreation and community spaces were selected by 54% of respondents.
The written responses helped explain why recreation matters so much.
People talked about swimming lessons, curling, playgrounds, activities for children who aren’t interested in hockey, indoor winter recreation, programs for adults and seniors, arts and culture, and places where people can gather.
One respondent described travelling to Terrace Bay so their child could participate in swimming lessons.
Others connected recreation directly to attracting and retaining healthcare professionals, supporting young families and giving residents reasons to stay in Marathon.
Some participants supported the proposed Active Living Centre. Others emphasized the importance of maintaining and supporting existing recreational facilities and organizations.
What that means to me
Recreation isn’t simply something extra that a community offers.
It contributes to physical and mental wellbeing, social connection, family life and a sense of belonging.
For families considering a move to Marathon, opportunities for their children may be an important part of that decision.
For older adults, accessible activities and gathering spaces can help maintain independence and connection.
And for young people, recreation and community programs can provide opportunities to participate and develop friendships.
The Town cannot provide every program itself. Volunteers, community organizations, businesses and partnerships also play important roles.
-
4 of 10
People want economic opportunity without losing Marathon’s identity
Economic development and support for local businesses were selected by 54% of respondents. Attracting and retaining residents was selected by 38%, and tourism by 25%.
Participants shared ideas about attracting businesses, supporting local entrepreneurs, expanding retail and restaurant options, diversifying employment and developing tourism opportunities.
Some specifically identified opportunities associated with Lake Superior, our natural surroundings and outdoor recreation.
One respondent suggested Indigenous-led or Indigenous-guided tourism experiences that could also create opportunities for local businesses.
Another raised concerns about ensuring independent entrepreneurs have opportunities alongside larger economic interests.
There was also recognition of work already underway. Some participants identified the Town’s efforts to promote Marathon, pursue government funding and diversify the economy as positive developments.
But growth came with an important qualification.
People also want to preserve Marathon’s natural beauty, small-town character and sense of community.
What that means to me
Economic development involves more than attracting a single employer or completing one project.
Housing, healthcare, childcare, recreation and local services all influence whether people choose to move here and remain here.
Supporting local businesses and entrepreneurship is another part of building a more diverse economy.
The questionnaire also reminded me that economic opportunity and protecting Marathon’s identity don’t have to be treated as opposing goals. Both deserve consideration in long-term planning.
-
5 of 10
Relationships with our neighbouring First Nations matter
Partnerships with neighbouring First Nations were selected by 54% of questionnaire participants.
The written responses revealed different perspectives about these relationships and the opportunities and challenges associated with them.
Some participants suggested more joint community events, Indigenous involvement and direction in tourism development, and opportunities to strengthen relationships.
Others raised questions about economic development and ensuring that independent local businesses also have opportunities to participate in Marathon’s future.
One respondent pointed to community programs offered by neighbouring First Nations as examples of inclusive approaches that could be learned from.
These responses brought forward important questions about relationships, community participation and economic opportunity.
What that means to me
I believe respectful relationships with our neighbouring First Nations require listening, open dialogue and consistent engagement.
Marathon’s relationships with Biigtigong Nishnaabeg and Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg are important to our shared future.
For me, this means being willing to hear different perspectives, understand concerns and explore opportunities for collaboration while respecting each community’s priorities and decision-making.
These relationships cannot be defined by one questionnaire or one person’s perspective. They require ongoing conversations with the communities themselves.
-
6 of 10
Housing is about people’s everyday lives
Affordable housing was selected by 29% of respondents.
But the written responses showed why percentages alone don’t tell the whole story.
One participant described a family living in a two-bedroom home where the living room had become an additional bedroom because they couldn’t find a suitable three-bedroom home.
Others raised concerns about affordable housing for people earning lower wages, aging housing stock, accessibility and the need for different types of homes.
Some participants identified the importance of housing for older adults who want to remain in Marathon as their needs change.
Housing was also connected to healthcare recruitment, economic development and retaining families.
What that means to me
Housing is not simply about the number of units available.
It’s about whether those homes are affordable, healthy, accessible and appropriate for the people who need them.
My experience working with the Marathon Municipal Non-Profit Housing Corporation taught me the importance of collaboration, long-term planning and persistence.
It also reinforced that housing projects involve many partners.
Municipal government has a role through planning, zoning, infrastructure and partnerships, but no individual councillor can resolve every housing challenge.
The questionnaire reinforced the importance of considering the different housing needs of families, workers, older adults and people living with disabilities.
-
7 of 10
Healthcare is valued, even as people identify challenges
Healthcare access and recruitment or retention were identified by 25% of respondents.
The written responses reflected both appreciation and concern.
Some participants described positive experiences with the Marathon Family Health Team and expressed appreciation for its staff.
One respondent specifically emphasized the importance of retaining the healthcare professionals already serving our community.
Others described difficulty accessing physicians, specialized services or timely care. Concerns were also raised about ambulance coverage and emergency services.
One respondent challenged me on including healthcare and childcare in a municipal questionnaire because these services are primarily provincial responsibilities.
That was a fair question about the role and limits of municipal government.
What that means to me
Council cannot solve every challenge within Ontario’s healthcare system.
But local government can contribute through partnerships, recruitment and retention initiatives, advocacy and municipal decisions that affect quality of life.
Housing, recreation, childcare and community amenities can influence whether healthcare professionals and their families choose to live here.
My approach remains:
Know what we control. Be responsible with what we control. Advocate fiercely for what we don’t.
-
8 of 10
Safety means different things to different people
Several participants described Marathon as a safe community where neighbours look out for one another.
One respondent appreciated being able to let their child play outside and described feeling safer here than in communities where they had previously lived.
Others expressed appreciation for local police officers and the sense of security that comes from living in a smaller community.
But not everyone shared that experience.
Some participants raised concerns about drug use, deteriorating properties, lighting and safety in particular neighbourhoods.
Others identified pedestrian safety, snow removal and accessibility.
One respondent raised concerns about increasing policing costs and the challenge of maintaining services while managing municipal expenses.
What that means to me
Safety involves more than policing alone.
It includes infrastructure, accessibility, property maintenance, community wellbeing, emergency services and the connections people have with their neighbours.
The responses reminded me that two people can live in the same community and experience it very differently.
Understanding those differences matters when considering municipal priorities.
-
9 of 10
Accessibility deserves attention, regardless of percentages
Accessibility and inclusion were selected by 8% of respondents.
Although fewer participants selected this category, some of the written comments described significant everyday barriers.
One respondent shared the challenges experienced by a family member who uses a wheelchair, including sidewalks, snow removal and school transportation.
Their account illustrated how inaccessible infrastructure can affect more than mobility. It can also create transportation expenses, interfere with employment and limit participation in community life.
Other responses raised concerns about accessible recreation, housing and public spaces.
What that means to me
One question I believe is worth asking during municipal discussions is:
Who might we be missing?
A barrier that most people rarely notice can have a significant impact on someone else’s daily life.
Accessibility needs to be considered across municipal planning, infrastructure, recreation and public spaces.
The questionnaire reminded me that an issue doesn’t have to receive the highest percentage to deserve serious consideration.
-
10 of 10
What people love about Marathon — and what we should recognize
One of my favourite questions was also one of the simplest:
What do you love most about Marathon?
People talked about Lake Superior, our forests, our scenery, our location and the outdoor lifestyle that comes with living here.
But they also talked about our people.
Neighbours looking out for one another. Children being able to play outside. Feeling safe. A strong sense of community.
Some respondents recognized the Town’s efforts to promote Marathon, pursue government funding and develop new opportunities.
Others shared positive experiences with local healthcare providers and appreciation for our Family Health Team.
These responses reminded me that there are many things happening in Marathon that people appreciate and want to see continue.
They also revealed an important contrast.
While some people described Marathon as welcoming and connected, others shared experiences of feeling excluded, overlooked or no longer as connected to the community they once knew.
One respondent who was born and raised here described how their feelings about Marathon had changed over time.
That response stayed with me.
What that means to me
I don’t believe every conversation about Marathon needs to begin with what’s wrong.
We have tremendous natural assets, dedicated volunteers, local businesses, community organizations and people who care deeply about this town.
At the same time, appreciating those strengths doesn’t mean overlooking the experiences of people who are struggling or who feel they don’t belong.
Recognizing both perspectives gives us a fuller understanding of our community.
I asked for honest answers — and I got them
One thing I appreciated about the questionnaire was that people didn’t simply tell me what they thought I wanted to hear.
Some participants challenged municipal decisions, financial priorities, administration and the way residents are treated.
Others questioned the direction of particular projects or whether existing facilities are receiving sufficient attention.
And some challenged me.
One respondent questioned why I included healthcare and childcare in a municipal questionnaire when those services are primarily provincial responsibilities.
Another challenged the idea of candidates saying they don’t have an agenda. They wanted to know what I actually hope to accomplish.
Those are important questions.
I believe there is a difference between having priorities and promising outcomes that are beyond the authority of one councillor.
I have priorities. I’ve shared them throughout this campaign. But I also recognize that Council makes decisions collectively, within the Town’s responsibilities, resources and legislative framework.
I appreciated being challenged to explain that distinction more clearly.
The questionnaire also revealed different opinions about Marathon’s future.
Some people expressed excitement about development and new facilities. Others worried about spending, affordability or whether existing services were receiving enough attention.
Some participants felt positive about the community’s direction. Others expressed considerable frustration.
These differences are part of what I wanted to understand.
Listening means being willing to hear perspectives that challenge your own, not only those that reinforce them.
What surprised me?
Three things stood out.
Communication and trust
I expected infrastructure, taxes and economic development to feature prominently. I was struck by how frequently communication, transparency and feeling heard appeared in the written responses.
People want opportunities to participate and clearer explanations of decisions that affect their community.
Recreation and quality of life
I was also struck by how strongly people connected recreation with the broader wellbeing of Marathon.
Their comments weren’t simply about facilities. They were about raising children, retaining families, healthy aging, attracting professionals and having opportunities to connect.
How interconnected everything is
Housing affects recruitment. Recreation affects retention. Infrastructure affects accessibility. Community events affect belonging. Partnerships can create opportunities. And transparency affects trust.
These connections help explain why municipal decisions often affect more than one area of community life.
I was also reminded that the most frequently selected issue isn’t necessarily the issue with the greatest impact on every resident.
Some participants described challenges that may affect relatively few people but have a significant effect on their daily lives.
Those experiences deserve to be heard, too.
What respondents value in a councillor
I asked participants to identify the qualities they value most in the people representing them. The questionnaire results show the following.
Most frequently selected qualities
| Quality | Selected |
|---|---|
| Honest | 58% |
| Accountable | 58% |
| Open-minded | 58% |
| Collaborative | 54% |
| Good listener | 46% |
| Financially responsible | 46% |
| Community-minded | 46% |
| Strong communicator | 38% |
Rounded percentages based on completed questionnaires. Some participants selected more than five qualities.
Participants also identified respect, transparency, advocacy, dependability and approachability.
These findings were meaningful to me because they speak to how residents want their representatives to conduct themselves.
People identified qualities associated with listening, openness, financial responsibility and accountability — not simply positions on individual projects.
How the findings connect to my community compass
Reading the responses helped me reflect on the values I’ve already shared through my Community Compass.
Four of my seven values were particularly relevant to the themes I identified in this questionnaire.
Four values reflected in what I heard
-
Connection
People talked about communication, transparency, opportunities to participate, recreation, belonging and relationships with our neighbouring First Nations.
These findings connect to my belief in listening, building relationships and creating opportunities for people to feel part of their community.
-
Commitment
Respondents identified honesty, accountability, listening and follow-through as important qualities in their representatives.
These findings connect to the importance I place on preparation, asking questions, taking responsibility for my decisions and following through on the commitments I make.
-
Sustainability
Responsible budgeting, maintaining infrastructure, housing, economic development and the long-term costs of municipal projects were recurring concerns.
These findings connect to my belief in responsible stewardship and considering how today’s decisions will affect Marathon in the years ahead.
-
Care
Participants described concerns about accessibility, housing, healthcare, community safety and opportunities for people of different ages, abilities and incomes.
These findings connect to my belief in considering how decisions affect people’s everyday lives, particularly those whose experiences may not always receive the most attention.
These are four of my existing Community Compass values, not new values created by the questionnaire.
The findings helped me see how those values relate to the experiences and concerns participants shared.
Closing the conversation — for now
To everyone who completed my questionnaire: thank you.
Thank you for sharing what you love about Marathon, what concerns you, what you believe deserves attention and what you hope to see in our community.
Thank you to those who recognized the good things happening here.
And thank you to those who challenged municipal decisions, raised difficult questions or challenged me personally.
I asked for honest answers, and I appreciate receiving them.
I won’t agree with every suggestion, and I cannot promise that every concern raised will be resolved.
But the responses have given me a fuller understanding of the experiences and perspectives of those who participated.
This questionnaire is one part of an ongoing conversation about Marathon’s future.
The conversation doesn’t end here.
With gratitude,
Shelley Heavens
Candidate for Marathon Town Council
Community at the centre. Courage at the table.