In 2018, New Hamburg business owner Jennifer Pfenning ran for a seat on Wilmot council so she could serve the community she’s called home since 1993. When she was elected to represent Ward 4, she was one of the first women on Wilmot council since 1974.
During her term as a Councillor, Jenn has been a champion for the environment, community building, and social justice — focusing on trails, climate change, and reconciliation.
Currently as the Chair of the Wilmot Trails Advisory Committee, she has driven enhancement, development and investment in Wilmot’s public trails system, local dog parks, and her proudest accomplishment, the creation of the Baden Hills trails; a labour of love that has proven to be an asset to Wilmot’s residents, especially during the pandemic.
Jenn is also a member of the Sustainability Working Group, helping demonstrate leadership in environmental stewardship for the Township. The group’s highlights include the declaration of a Climate Emergency, Wilmot’s new E-Vehicle charging stations, and ensuring the inclusion of total lifetime cost as a key factor in the Township’s purchasing policy.
Around the community, Jenn volunteers by planting trees with Let’s Tree Wilmot, creates educational activities for children at The Wilmot Family Resource Centre, and helps local residents at The Mennonite Relief Sale, to name a few. She is also a member of the Wilmot Horticultural Society, the Heritage Wilmot Committee and 100 Women Who Care.
In addition, Jenn has been involved in community service throughout her life, including many years of active participation on boards and committees:
- Canadian Representative on the Migration Collective for La Via Campensina, International Peasant’s Movement
- Chair of the Migrant Worker’s Solidarity Working Group for the National Farmers Union
- Member (and past President) of the Organic Council of Ontario
- Advisor and past board member of the Food System Roundtable of Waterloo Region
Jenn has worked to promote the best interest of our Township in every way possible; building relationships, making connections, and bringing new understanding to enhance the ability of the municipality to serve residents.
There are a lot more important local issues she would like to address on a full-time basis, so this year, Jenn is running as Mayor of Wilmot Township.
jenn4wilmot.ca 