Candidate for Orillia Ward 2
Vote Mason for Ward 2
Orillia needs councillors who understand how government works, know how to navigate it to get results, and are not afraid to speak up for what is right.
“I am running because Orillia needs leadership that delivers. Things are getting harder for a lot of people, and we need councillors who understand how government works.”
— Mason Ainsworth
About Mason
Homegrown experience. Fresh perspective.
Mason has lived in Orillia for more than 30 years and in Ward 2 for more than 20. His family has called the city home for more than five generations. He and his wife are raising two sons, Seth and Lincoln.
He served two terms on city council from 2014 to 2022, with committee work in physician recruitment, transit, and waste management. He also founded the city's affordable housing committee and represented Orillia with the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and Ontario Small Urban Municipalities.
After an unsuccessful bid for mayor, Mason has been working in economic development with the Ontario Business Improvement Area Association, Ontario Chamber of Commerce, and the provincial Ministry of Colleges and Universities. He holds a master's degree in economic development and innovation from the University of Waterloo.
His campaign is also informed by lived experience: he grew up in affordable housing, relied on public transit, lived in a shelter, and used a food bank. “I know what it feels like to struggle,” he says. “I also know it can get better.”
Priorities
Focused on what matters to Ward 2
Economic development
Supporting local businesses, good jobs, and smart growth that strengthens our tax base.
Infrastructure
Roads, transit, utilities, and public spaces that keep Ward 2 moving and connected.
Community safety
Working with first responders and neighbourhoods to keep Orillia a safe place to live.
Environment
Protecting our lakes, greenspaces, and environment for the next generation.
Fiscal responsibility
Making sure tax dollars are spent wisely and deliver real value to residents.
Communication
Regular ward meetings and clear, honest updates so residents are never left guessing.
Key issues
Straight answers on big decisions
Ward meetings
Accountability starts with showing up.
Ward 2 has not had a ward meeting this term of council. Mason wants ward meetings mandated as part of councillors' responsibilities and would hold multiple meetings each year if elected.
New hospital & Lakehead expansion
A no-brainer for Orillia.
Mason supports the new Orillia Soldiers' Memorial Hospital and Lakehead University expansion. Council's job is to help the project move forward, not risk it being built elsewhere.
Samuel de Champlain Monument
Let residents decide.
On this divisive issue, Mason wants residents presented with clear information on options, costs, timelines, and outcomes before a citywide vote.
A different tone at council
Mason has also spoken out about the tone around the current council table, saying some members have been “extremely disrespectful” toward colleagues, democracy, and the community. He believes Orillians deserve a council that debates ideas forcefully but treats people respectfully.
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Show your support
Put a sign on your lawn
One of the best ways to help the campaign is to show neighbours you're voting for Mason. Request a lawn sign below and a team member will drop one off.
Request a signVote for qualifications, not familiarity
With six candidates seeking Ward 2's two seats, Mason is urging residents to base their decision on who is most qualified to do the job — not who knocked on your door or whose name you already know.
“We need to work together, support each other, get involved, and vote if we want to make a real difference.”
Get involved
Mason canvassing in Ward 2.
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Join Mason's campaign
Sign up to volunteer, request a lawn sign, or share your ideas for Ward 2.