Re-Elect Ellen Timms
for Wasaga Beach Councillor
About Ellen Timms
A Lifetime of Building Communities
Ellen, (Molson) and Dave
Hi, I’m Ellen Timms.
Wasaga Beach has been part of my life since 2004 and my permanent home since 2017. My husband Dave and I came for the beach, but like so many others, we stayed because of the community.
For more than 30 years, my career has centred around economic development, tourism, small business and community building. I owned two retail businesses, spent many years leading the Port Credit Business Community (BIA), served with the Ontario Business Improvement Area Association and worked in Economic and Tourism Development here in Wasaga Beach.
In 2022, residents gave me the privilege of serving my first term on Town Council.
Today, I also serve as a Member of the Wasaga Beach Public Library Board and the Economic Development & Tourism Advisory Committee. I’m also very proud to be Co-Founder and President of the Wasaga Beach Bite food security initiative, which has raised close to $80,000 to help take the bite out of hunger.
But titles only tell part of my story.
I’m a wife, mother, grandmother, small-business owner, volunteer and someone who believes strongly in showing up for her community. Life has given me plenty of experience, some wonderful and some very difficult, and all of it has shaped how I approach public service.
Wasaga Beach is changing quickly. We have tremendous momentum, but also important decisions ahead about growth, infrastructure, our environment, affordability and the kind of community we want to leave to the next generation.
I’m asking for your support for another term because I believe there is more work to do — and I’m ready to keep doing it.
Rooted in Community. Focused on the Future.
A Career at a Glance
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Town Councillor, Town of Wasaga Beach
(2022–Present)
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More than 30 years in economic development, tourism and downtown revitalization
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Former Membership & Advocacy Director, Wasaga Beach Chamber of Commerce
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Former Economic Development & Tourism Officer, Town of Wasaga Beach
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Former General Manager, Port Credit Business Improvement Area
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Former President, Ontario Business Improvement Area Association (OBIAA)
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Worked collaboratively with Ontario ministries to strengthen downtowns and support small businesses across the province
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Member, Wasaga Beach Public Library Board
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Member, Economic Development & Tourism Advisory Committee
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Co-Founder & President, Wasaga Beach BITE Food Security Initiative
Ellen chairing OBIAA
Ellen and Hazel
Building Communities Through Leadership
Before entering municipal politics, I spent my career helping communities grow from the ground up.
As a small business owner, I understood firsthand the challenges and rewards of running a local business. That experience shaped my approach to economic development and gave me a deep appreciation for the importance of vibrant main streets and thriving local businesses.
In 2001, I became General Manager of the Port Credit Business Improvement Area, where I spent the next 18 years working with businesses, volunteers, City staff and elected officials to help transform Port Credit into one of Ontario’s premier waterfront destinations.
One project I’m especially proud of was conceiving and launching the Port Credit BuskerFest in 2006. What began as an idea grew into one of the city’s signature events, attracting visitors, supporting local businesses and celebrating arts and culture.
Throughout my career, I’ve often been described as someone who brings people together. Building partnerships, finding common ground and turning ideas into action have always been among my greatest strengths.
Provincial Leadership
Serving as President of the Ontario Business Improvement Area Association was one of the highlights of my professional career.
Working alongside an outstanding Board of Directors, we collaborated with several Ontario ministries on initiatives that strengthened main streets, supported small businesses and advocated for communities across the province.
Those experiences broadened my understanding of municipal issues, government partnerships and economic development, while reinforcing the importance of collaboration and respectful leadership.
Continuing the Journey in Wasaga Beach
When I made Wasaga Beach my permanent home, I was excited to begin a new chapter of service.
I served as the Town’s Economic Development & Tourism Officer, later became Membership & Advocacy Director for the Wasaga Beach Chamber of Commerce, and in 2022 had the honour of being elected to Town Council.
Today, I also serve as:
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Member, Wasaga Beach Public Library Board
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Member, Economic Development & Tourism Advisory Committee
These roles allow me to continue supporting our community through thoughtful planning, collaboration and a commitment to responsible growth.
Community Leadership
Community involvement has always been an important part of my life.
Whether through nonprofit leadership, volunteer service or community partnerships, I believe strong communities are built by people who care enough to get involved.
Highlights
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Co-Founder & President, Wasaga Beach BITE Food Security Initiative
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Helped build a community-led food security initiative that has now raised close to $80,000 to support local food security
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Former member, On the Move Committee, a partnership involving the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, Worsley Elementary School and community partners promoting active transportation, healthy lifestyles and safer routes to school
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Long-time volunteer supporting local organizations, fundraising initiatives and community events
Beach Bite Cheque Presentation
Leadership Beyond the Job
Throughout my career, I’ve been honoured to contribute to organizations whose work extends beyond my day-to-day responsibilities.
These opportunities allowed me to share ideas, learn from others and help build stronger communities.
Selected Leadership Roles
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Former President, Ontario Business Improvement Area Association (OBIAA)
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Member, Former Mayor Bonnie Crombie’s Transition Committee
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Port Credit Community Foundation
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Port Credit Advisory Committee
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Founder, HEART (Heritage, Environment, Art, Revitalization & Tourism)
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Mississauga South Poverty Roundtable
Awards & Recognition
While recognition has never been the reason I serve, I am grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to make a positive difference and for the honours I’ve received along the way.
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Alex Ling Lifetime Achievement Award
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Lifetime Membership – Heritage Mississauga
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Fabulous Women Over 40 Award - Celebrating life, business success, and community contributions of women over 40
Each reflects something I value deeply: community, collaboration and service.
Looking Ahead
Looking back, I see a career built on partnerships, community leadership and a genuine belief that local government can make a positive difference in people’s lives.
Looking ahead, I remain just as committed.
Wasaga Beach is growing, and with that growth comes both opportunity and responsibility. My experience has prepared me to understand the challenges, work collaboratively, make thoughtful decisions and continue building a community that residents are proud to call home.
There is still important work to do, and I would be honoured to continue serving our community with the same dedication, respect and commitment that have guided me throughout my career.
Rooted in Community. Focused on the Future.