A local artist is trying to bring her creativity into the world of politics.
Penelope Duchesne is running in Ward 7 in Chatham-Kent's (CK) upcoming election, hoping to represent people living in northeast Chatham.
She told CK News Today that she wanted to run because of concerns about how much the municipality is spending.
"Every year our taxes go up, so is our water, and it's getting unsustainable," explained Duchesne.
She also believes the next council will need to address the homelessness crisis, a lack of affordable housing, and aging infrastructure, while also finding ways to keep our youth from moving away.
"We have a few problems," she added.
When asked why people should vote for her, Duchesne described herself as someone who wants change, not status quo.
"Right now, we have an administration that runs the show and not council, so I would like to bring back the power to council and the residents," she said.
CK's election will be on October 26, 2026.