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One of the highlights of recently moving back to Ontario to Thornbury has been reconnecting with Rachel Gilliland, who I am proud to call both a friend and a passionate community builder. Rachel is a thoughtful, smart and approachable person, who is always energized when discussing how our community can continue to grow and thrive.
She brings a rare combination of real municipal experience, strong instincts, and the ability to navigate complex issues while still keeping people at the center of decision-making. Rachel is not someone who seeks attention for the sake of politics — she genuinely cares about the long-term success and character of the communities she serves.
As The Blue Mountains continues to evolve, I believe Rachel’s balanced approach, leadership experience, and ability to build relationships across different perspectives would make her a tremendous asset to our community.”
_Kristina Schaefer, Blue Mountain Resident

Rachel Gilliland has built a reputation as a strong and engaged municipal leader who genuinely cares about the communities she serves.
Throughout her time in public office, she has demonstrated a deep understanding of governance, fiscal responsibility, community planning, and local economic development. She brings energy, professionalism, and a practical approach to decision-making while remaining approachable and connected to residents.
Her experience as an elected official, combined with her passion for community-building, would make her a valuable asset to the Town of Blue Mountains Council.
Christine Bisanz, Municipal Councillor, 12 yrs, Former Fire Services Chair, CHATS Fundraising Committee

I have known Rachel for over 25 years now, and here are a few words I would use to describe Rachel - intelligent, studious, hard working, honest. She cares about others before herself, which I believe is part of her motivation to offer herself to a life of service via public office. She is always willing to have a discussion, on any issue, so as to appreciate other people’s points of view. Trust me, we have had a number of those other the years!! I am positive that Rachel will be an incredible advocate for the people of The Blue Mountains.
We moved to The Blue Mountains last summer, and are thrilled to know that will can have people like Rachel looking out for our interests with the challenges of a growing area, while wanting to preserve the unique nature of the small towns that make up The Blue Mountains. Rachel’s municipal government experience, her stellar relationship skills, and keen interest in what’s best for the community and its citizens is what I am in complete support of. Rachel will prove to be a great asset to the people of The Blue Mountains!
- Dave Bedford, Blue Mountain Resident

Rachel Gilliand has impressed me with her understanding of municipal issues facing the Blue Mountains. She is personable and takes time to listen. She is a results-oriented individual and a excellent record of public service. She understands governance, economic development, emergency services and constituent relations. I believe Rachel will help move the town forward on many critical issues including cost management, infrastructure and housing while being attuned to the need to grow our community while maintaining its charm.
_ Bob Welling, Blue Mountain Resident

Rachel is one of the very few people that I have had the privilege of interacting with in politics that means what they say, and says what they mean. She is incredibly genuine and she operates with integrity, which we know how rare that is.
Rachel is incredibly invested in community and she cares about every single member. She takes her responsibility very seriously and I know considers it a privilege to be at the decision-making table and does her very best to represent those who have elected her.
So I’m very proud to know Rachel, very grateful to Rachel for her leadership with respect to this non-partisan call for government legislation to hold municipally elected representatives accountable and adhering to an appropriate code of conduct. And I truly feel that community is a better place with her at the decision-making table.
Emily MacIntosh - Founder of Ontario Women Say No. Bill 5: Stopping Harrassment & Abuse by Local Leaders Act. Bill 207: Municipal Accountability & Integrity Act

“The Blue Mountains—especially Thornbury—is at a turning point. We need leadership that looks beyond the status quo and focuses on where this community needs to be 10–20 years from now.
Rachel Gilliland brings that vision—along with the experience to actually make it happen. She understands how municipal government works, listens to the community, and delivers real results.
As a Thornbury resident I’m concerned with the towns future. I believe Rachel is exactly the kind of leader we need to ensure the town grows in a smart, sustainable, and relevant way. This community deserves better and I’m happy to support her.”
— David Totten, Blue Mountain Resident

I first came to know Rachel Gilliland through her work and involvement in Aurora and now we have reconnected in Thornbury,. What always stood out to me was how engaged, accessible, and hardworking she was for her community. Rachel has never been afraid to ask difficult questions, challenge the status quo when needed, and advocate for balanced decision-making.
For many years, I can see how valuable that kind of experience and leadership would be in this region as it continues to grow and evolve. Rachel understands both the opportunities and the pressures that come with growth, and she brings a practical, community-focused perspective to the table.
She cares deeply about preserving the character of a community, ensuring there is ample recreation all while planning responsibly for the future. I believe she would be a strong voice for residents in The Blue Mountains.
-Anne Ross, Blue Mountains Resident

As both a neighbour and someone who encouraged Rachel to join our condo board, I’ve had the opportunity to see her leadership, professionalism, and commitment firsthand.
What became clear very quickly is that Rachel does not simply attend meetings — she contributes meaningfully. She brings structure, accountability, sound judgment, and a thoughtful approach to addressing complex issues. She asks important questions, listens carefully, and consistently works toward practical, balanced solutions that benefit the broader community.
Rachel’s background in municipal government has been an incredible asset. She understands governance, budgeting, infrastructure, and the long-term impact decisions can have on residents. Just as importantly, she is willing to put in the time and effort behind the scenes to fully understand issues and contribute in a constructive way.
As The Blue Mountains continues to grow and face increasingly important decisions, I believe Rachel’s experience, professionalism, and community-minded approach would make her a strong and valuable representative for our town.
- Vickey Gibson, Blue Mountains Resident

I have had the privilege of getting to know Rachel personally over the past several years, both as a local councillor and in her pursuit of higher office. I can confidently say that she is a leader we need right now. Her intelligence and deep understanding of our challenges allow her to make informed decisions. However, it is her ability to listen that truly sets her apart — she responds to and genuinely understands the community she serves.
Rachel is a relationship builder who brings people together, fostering partnerships that create meaningful change. She is a compassionate leader who ensures that every decision considers the community’s well-being. Her ability to communicate a clear and inspiring vision motivates others to work towards a shared goal. Whether navigating complex issues or seeking common ground in difficult conversations, Rachel leads with integrity, purpose, and a genuine commitment to making a lasting impact.
I wholeheartedly support Rachel. She possesses the skills, passion, and vision needed to unite people and advance a community.
I am honoured to endorse Rachel and proudly call her my friend.
Chris Campbell
President, Elite Brain Coach

I’ve only known Rachel for about a year and a half, but it did not take long to recognize that she brings a very unique level of leadership experience and political understanding to the Blue Mountains. Having grown up around public service through my mother’s work as an MP, I understand the difference between someone who simply holds a title and someone who truly understands leadership, governance, and people. Rachel has that instinct naturally.
What impressed me most is her ability to connect with people, understand complex issues quickly, and communicate with both confidence and authenticity. She brings real municipal experience, strong community awareness, and the kind of practical leadership that growing communities genuinely need. I believe Rachel has a tremendous amount to offer the Town of Blue Mountains.
_ Caroline Brown, Born and raised Grey County

Rachel Gilliland is very involved in small communities. She understands all the aspects of how to balance taxation with the service levels, how to deal with homelessness, and truly understands the residents of the community she represents. Blue Mountains would be lucky to have her."
Bob Kwapis, Councillor and Vice Chair of OSUM Ontario Small Urban Municipalities

Rachel is a value based leader that always puts the needs of her community first, including the needs of the community’s most vulnerable. Good luck in the Blue Mountains!
President & CEO of Jack.org, Former CEO of Blue Door, Inn From the Cold Leader

I am proud to support Rachel for Town Council. What stands out to me is that she brings not only experience, but perspective. She understands the realities people face during periods of change, uncertainty, and growth because she has lived it herself. At the same time, she brings years of municipal leadership experience, strong communication skills, and a deep understanding of governance and community-building.
- S. Henderson, Thornbury resident.

I’ve known Rachel as both an active community member and a friend, and the person showing up for this community is exactly who she is in real life - genuine, grounded, and truly invested in the people around her.
What sets her apart is that she actually listens, and she follows through. The town of Blue Mountains needs someone at the table who understands both the mechanics of governance and the soul of a small town. Rachel gets both.
- Pam G., Thornbury

I first met Rachel when we moved to town and our children got involved in organized sports. Even before her leadership role she was well informed about our community, its history, opportunities to enhance it and had a keen ear for what events mattered to people. She was listening and engaging as a citizen first in a very Ernest and sincere way.
We became fast friends. As her political work began I became particularly impressed with the positive changes she championed and continued openness to engage and listen to issues that mattered across the many individuals and groups she met.
She has proven to be a true leader in sustainable living initiatives, a great citizen with a strong and compassionate voice on Council. I see her supporting so many cultural and festive events each and every week. I suspect she does this to continue to engage, listen and act. It’s in her nature - A true leader and asset on Council.
I endorse Rachel Gilliland.
- Melanie McClagen, President
Impetus3 Inc

It is with much pleasure and am very proud to endorse Rachel Gilliland.
Rachel has always been dedicated to our community, with commitment and support for local businesses. Rachel and husband Brad have supported our family business for many years, through good times, and as well through the pandemic with food to go.
We have been in business in this incredible town of Aurora for over 30 years, and we cannot thank Rachel and her followers enough for all their support and assistance over the years.
David Myers, Filly & Co. Owner

Hi, I'm Tyler Barker. I stand with Rachel Gilliland.
She is independent, a free thinker, and stands for positive change!
She will have my vote and she should have yours too!
- Tyler Barker, Aurora Resident, Federal Accessibility Committee contributor, Past Member of the Town of Aurora Accessibility Committee

As President of Aurora King baseball , I would like to throw my support behind and endorse Rachel Gilliland for Council
Rachel has always had an ear for our concerns when it comes to AKBA. Rachel was available on a whim to help us facilitate a food drive for the Aurora pantry. Just an upstanding person that is there for local sports and the greater good of the Town.
- Shaun McGuire, AKBA President

Theatre Aurora is greatly appreciative of the consistent support we have received from Councillor Rachel Gilliland. She has demonstrated her understanding of the importance and quality of the arts and culture opportunities in the community and the need for disseminating this information to Aurorans.
Rachel attends each of our productions every year, stays after the performances to meet the cast, and offers her congratulations. She has always made an effort to help promote the production details on social media outlets and continues to support the arts and culture sector.
Thank you, Rachel!
Judi Cragg
VP Productions
Theatre Aurora

I've known Rachel for the past 7 years and she's been a wonderful person to deal with. Rachel has consistently proven herself to be a dedicated and loyal councillor for the residents and businesses.
I can indeed say that with all the dealings I've had with Rachel, she leads by example. Rachel, is a leader that communicates with both younger and older people alike, and always stays cheerful and friendly.
She is very approachable and always willing to attend any event and cheer on our local teams.
Rachel will represent our Town with integrity and passionately, and will alway go that extra mile!
- Joe Bentolila, President
Aurora Minor Hockey Association

Having lived in Town for almost 50 years and absolutely love where we live, it's important for me to feel like things are getting done by our representatives. Rachel does just that, gets it done.
Rachel and I first met during the pandemic through the restaurant coupon book campaign. Through our conversation it became very apparent that our town means just as much to her as it does to my family and I.
I find Rachel genuinely engaging, real and willing to listen. I'm not political on any level and don't buy into any agenda other than the greater good for our town, that includes hard decisions. We look for real people to be our voice in chambers and people with a backbone, we feel Rachel is a perfect representative.
We are more than happy to endorse Rachel for council!
Ray McDonald, Life Long Aurora Resident

Our restaurant Wicked Eats Kitchen & Bar is centrally located in Aurora. Therefore, the continuity of the Ward with strong consistent leadership is paramount considering all the uncertainty of the last few years. It is within this context, that WE endorse the incumbent Councillor Rachel Gilliland to remain in Office and represent our concerns and interests within the trade area.
WE had the pleasure of having Rachel engage with our staff and the community during numerous visits on our Friday evening get togethers. She also dropped by to officially open Wicked Eats on June 27th, 2022 for our 1year anniversary. Rachel is very active in her Ward and the Town of Aurora supporting local initiatives and business interests.
I had the pleasure of speaking with her at great lengths about her and her family history in the hospitality business and the empathy she shares with the local restaurants during the pandemic.
It is a comfort to know that there is someone out there that visits the local businesses throughout their elected term listening to their concerns; not just on the weeks that proceed and election!
Sincerely,
Robert Stewart, Owner
Wicket Eats Kitchen & Bar

I’m writing this letter for my recommendation for Ms.Rachel Gilliland to be the next councillor!
Rachel has been a great community builder in the past term on council. She has done an enormous amount of work moving our Arts and Culture movement forward in Town.
Rachel is a consensus team builder and is of sound character, fit to continue in her role as a leader in our community. I have full trust in Rachel and her abilities to do what is best for the residents!
It is with great pleasure that my Endorsement of Rachel will continue to move our Town forward.
Yours truly
Ron Kellman

My career within a few global companies has taken our family throughout several communities in Ontario and New York. When our family was moving back to the GTA from New York 14 years ago, we had a blank canvas to choose a great community to raise our young family. Through our research and conversations with local friends, we chose Aurora for its balance of city amenities and recreational opportunities coupled with its small-town charm. It was a community with spirit and balanced approach to growth and a safe place to raise our kids.
Jennifer and I have known Rachel and her family for most of our time living in Aurora. We have watched Rachel and her family grow and enjoy all that Aurora has to offer. With both of her daughters off to university, I applaud Rachel making the choice to give back to our community by choosing to enter the race for Aurora Town Council. I know that Rachel can be counted on to listen to our community questions, concerns and ideas for the responsible growth of our community – ensuring that Aurora continues to be a place of opportunity with a small-town feel. I look forward to voting for Rachel and would welcome anyone in the community to get to know Rachel and her views and how she can have your voice heard on our Town Council.
- Bulmer Family

Rachel is a loyal and dedicated town councillor.
She consistently takes the time to get to know local residents and hear what’s important to them.
Rachel leads with heart and passion and I am happy to endorse Rachel for town councillor.
- Jamie Ferrante
Athletic Club Owner

I would like to take this time to endorse Rachel Gilliland. I met Rachel over coffee to discuss some important issues. She was very concerned about the financial situation at Country Lane Townhomes, where the condo corporation imposed a whopping $17k+, in the form of a “Special Assessment Fee”, which was shocking to the owners. Upon hearing about the situation, she was quick to provide info from the Community Legal Clinic and pointed to government grant opportunities that the cooperation could choose to take part in to help minimize the fee. She also collaborated with the Associate Minister of Housing MPP Michael Parsa who provided contacts to free legal aid services, rights related to Condominium Authority of Ontario, and Condominium Management Regulatory Authority of Ontario information. She is very active in and around the community, listens and acts on her promises. I support Rachel Gilliland for Council!
- Eddie Lewis, Life Insurance Agent for World Financial Group and fellow Country Lane Townhome Neighbour

I started following politics after the last election. Through watching the council meetings through zoom I really started to notice one councillor ask a lot of sensible questions and was thinking for herself and that was Rachel Gilliland. She really cares about everybody in this town, even us renters! I am so happy that she is running for council. I met with Rachel last week and she was really truly listening to my concerns, most of which are accessibility issues. I usually get out around town in my wheelchair and there a lot of issues. She has taken me up on my challenge to try to get around town in my wheelchair (You don’t really know how difficult it is until you actually need a wheelchair). She was very attentive, caring and understanding of my issues that’s why I am endorsing Rachel Gilliland for Council!
Theresa Saveall McGuire, Aurora Resident

Your is lucky to have Rachel Gilliland as a candidate in this election. Rachel is truly one of a kind! She is insightful, genuine and hardworking, (among many other amazing things). I have known Rachel for several years and she has always stood up for what she believes in. Her incredible energy and motivation to make positive changes in the community make her the perfect addition to Council. I have no doubt that Rachel will do amazing things. Vote Gilliland!
- Rachel Katz, Paralegal

I highly endorse Rachel Gilliland in her run for member of the Municipal Council. Over the past 8 years she has been an incredible asset and resource for our school community. Rachel has continuously offered her time and support which is a strong reflection of her incredible dedication and work ethic. During this time, the culture & spirit of our school has flourished and grown, much to the continued work that Rachel has put forth. Furthermore she is exceptionally passionate! My students leave her workshops feeling pumped and prepared! It is through this balance of drive and compassion that makes Rachel the perfect candidate as a member of public office. Although I am not a resident of Aurora, I would absolutely offer her my vote. I have no doubt that Rachel will bring her strong work ethic and compassion to every project and task- all for the betterment of the community.
Mr. Scott Johnson, YCDSB Educator

When you're thinking every candidate for the position of Councillor claims to be...
- a great leader
- a great business person
- a great listener
- a great problem solver
- a great motivator
- devoted to public service
- hard working 24/7
- AUTHENTIC!
Remember, RACHEL GILLILAND IS THE REAL THING.
Yours truly, Judy Wallace
Happily Retired!

Rachel and her husband Brad moved into Aurora in 1996. I have known Rachel since 2018 when she was first elected as a Councillor for the Town of Aurora. Over the past 4 years, as a Councillor, Rachel has attended most of the Town council meetings and she is very active in the community. I find her to be an excellent communicator and she is aware and sensitive to the citizens’ concerns to social, economic and political issues. Rachel has good problem solving skills and she is a true leader.
Rachel has visited the Aurora Food Pantry and has been involved in food drives this past year. For example, Rachel and her oldest daughter organized a food drop off at the Town Park Family Day event. She is also involved in improving the outdoor fitness parks, protecting and maintaining greenspaces, and toured the exciting new Fire Station, at the north end of Town.
Rachel is involved in the community. For example, mental health is an important part of our lives, according to Mrs. Gilliland, and identified a need by creating a dedicated mental health resource web page, so residents of all ages and genders can quickly and easily find the support systems in Town. She is also a supporter of the Yellow Brick House and women's safety, green infrastructure in support of climate change and adaptation, encourages the growth of vibrant arts in the community, and addressed the education strategies of invasive species and insects.
It is my pleasure to write an endorsement for Rachel Gilliland as a councillor for the Town of Aurora in the next municipal election in October, 2022. Rachel fights for the rights of the citizens in Town.
Jim Jackson, Aurora, ON
Jim is a former professor, Sociology, at Humber College in Toronto. He has lived in Aurora since 1990 and he and his wife, Corey, have raised two boys.
Jim is involved in the community and he has had several articles and letters to the editor published in the Auroran and the Era Banner over the years.

Hi my name is Soheila Zarrabi, I’m writing to recommend the honourable Rachel Gilliland for re-election of Aurora Town Councillor in Ward 2!
I’ve known Rachel Gilliland since 2018.
I have been lucky to work with her on a few campaigns, who is honest, hard-working and passionate to get good results.
• Rachel’s positive energy and knowledge always brings positive results to the people in the Town of Aurora.
• She works hard around the clock
• She never gives up on her purpose of improving and upgrading the service and products for Aurora.
• She is a great Councillor because of her innovative ideas and nonstop research for a new projects and problem solving ideas.
- Sincerely Soheila Zarrabi, Artist

I have the pleasure of writing an endorsement for my wife Rachel, who is running to become a member of Council for the Town of Aurora.
Rachel has been a wonderfully supportive partner of mine for over 25 years and she has done an amazing job in raising our two beautiful daughters who are now away at University. It’s obvious that I will say Rachel is committed, responsible and cares deeply about the community that we hand-picked to raise our family in. She has a limitless amount of energy – running her own business, a passionate volunteer in both community and organised sports and dedicated countless hours to school programs over the last 20 years. With our daughters grown, Rachel wants to turn that energy, passion and attention to representing the citizens of the Town of Aurora on Council. Accountable – check. Capable – check. Committed – check. Putting the political speak aside…….
Like many, we moved to Aurora when we were starting a family. We lived in Toronto but we wanted to raise our children in a true community. Since moving here in the 90’s we have lived in four homes and watched our Town grow. Like you, we have played in the parks with our kids and walked our dogs in our trails. Like you, we've raced home to get to practice, watched fireworks and listened to music in our parks. Our great friendships have been built through school and sports and we cherish them all. We are both very proud to call Aurora home, loving the history and excited for the future.
What I’m trying to say is, sure, Rachel is all the political speak: accountable, capable and committed. But more important to me, she is real, she is a mom, a local businesswoman, a volunteer coach, a community advocate with no hidden agenda that is ready to serve. She has walked in your shoes and I believe that a vote for Rachel Gilliland is a vote for you and your family too.
- Brad Gilliland, Proud and Supportive Husband

I have known Rachel for many years now and am witness to her impeccable leadership and organizational skills. I believe she is the right person for the much needed socio-economic changes required in the Town of Aurora. She will be the voice of the local community and is one of the most approachable people I have met. If the people of Aurora want meaningful change, then she is the person to vote into council. She will bring a positive fresh perspective to the community and I wish her the very best in this great endeavour.
- Ammar Sikandar, President
Kingsmen Capital

Way to go Rachel for running for Aurora Town Councillor. I know once you become passionate about something, you work hard to get it done & get it done 100% right. I’ve seen you help out with so many school activities, sports & town events over the past 18 years that I’ve known you. Your passion & interest in helping our community is commendable. I look forward to seeing you make a difference as an effective Town Councillor in Ward 2. Good luck!
- Paul & Aniko Just
Retired YRDSB Teacher and Small Business Owner

In the time I have known Rachel, she has always been a positive leader, who helped me when I needed it the most. She is an authentic hardworking human who will represent the residents of Ward 2 with heart and sincerity.
- Vicky Tan
Marketing Brand Manager

I had a recent conversation with Rachel and have observed her involvement in the community... and I must say I am impressed with her passion and dedication to bring Aurora the positive change that it deserves. Her vision of fiscal responsibility, a smart balance between development, growth and preservation, while protecting our green space is on point. I admire her keen desire to get things done in our Town and she has proven to be committed to the task. She is quick to advocate for small businesses in Town and believes in supporting local. Rachel Gilliland would continue to be a great voice around the Council table and I encourage others to vote for her in Ward 2!
- Troy G.

Rachel and Brad were the first in the family to move to Aurora 26 years ago. She has been a strong advocate for the Town and has always loved its charm and community feel. Since then, our whole family has followed suit, moving to this tiny gem. She has been involved in many ways, such as coaching, volunteering inside schools and her local rate payers associations. Rachel's dedication and keen desire to get things done would be an asset to our Town by helping protect your best interest of the community.
Rachel Gilliland, you have our vote!
- Wendy Klein

A personal thank you to everyone who believes in my character, my authenticity, leadership, passion and commitment to this Town. Without your support, I would not have this opportunity to serve.
Kind Regards and Humbly Yours,
Rachel Gilliland
#InThisTogether