A Small Win for a Quieter Port Perry 🚛

Sometimes, advocacy starts with simply listening.

On July 24, I met with a resident who wanted to get to know me and talk about our community. During our conversation, she mentioned an ongoing issue with large trucks using engine brakes along Simcoe Street.

I didn’t tell her I would fix it. Quite honestly, I wasn’t sure there was anything I could do, and I didn’t want to make a promise I might not be able to keep - but I went home, and I looked into it.

The following Monday, I contacted the Region of Durham to ask whether an “Avoid Engine Brake Noise” sign could be installed for trucks entering Port Perry. A ticket was opened, but a week later I received a response saying the request would not be approved.

I didn’t stop there.

I used my experience and contacts from my 9 years working for the Region of Durham to connect with the right people. I provided examples of similar signage on other Regional roads and information demonstrating the higher residential density in Port Perry compared to Utica, Coppins Corners, Goodwood, and Clermont where similar signs are posted. Then I followed up again the following week.

Last week, I received the answer I was hoping for: the Region has approved the installation of an “AVOID ENGINE BRAKE NOISE” sign for northbound traffic on Simcoe Street. The implementation process has already begun, with installation anticipated within approximately 6 to 8 weeks.

The Region explained that engine brakes are an important safety feature on heavy trucks and cannot simply be prohibited. The sign will instead encourage voluntary compliance and increase awareness among truck operators travelling through the area.

I immediately messaged the resident and gave her the good news.

She was very happy. 

And this is a great example of why I believe experience in municipal government matters.

Municipal government can be complicated. I know how the system works. I know who to contact, how to make the case, where to find the information to support a request, and - perhaps most importantly - when an initial “no” means “no,” and when it means “keep asking the right questions.” This experience is what can make a real difference.

But most importantly, I believe that when a resident takes the time to raise a concern, they deserve to be heard.

This wasn’t a major policy decision or a huge project. It was one resident, one neighbourhood concern, one small change that can make a difference, and someone taking the time to listen and follow it through.

That’s the kind of Councillor I want to be.

I didn’t promise her I could make it happen. I just listened - and then I tried.

Listen. Advocate. Follow through.

And sometimes, make Port Perry just a little bit quieter. 💚💙