Five questions with Trevor McMillan, Ward 1 – Trenton candidate for Quinte West council in the 2026 municipal election

Editor’s note: To help voters to be better informed, Quinteist will be asking the same five questions of all council candidates in Belleville, Quinte West and Prince Edward County in advance of the municipal election, which will be held on Monday, Oct. 26, 2026. Questions were sent to all candidates on Sept. 10, 2026. We will publish their responses as we receive them. Below are the responses from Ward 1 – Trenton candidate Trevor McMillan. You can view a roundup of all our Quinte West municipal coverage and links to all completed profiles here.

1. Tell us a little bit about your professional background, including any prior municipal or other political participation, as well as about you, personally. What made you want to run for council?

Serving as a Quinte West councillor has long been a personal aspiration of mine. For more than 15 years, I have thoughtfully considered seeking elected office and contributing to the continued growth and success of our community. I still recall a conversation with friends following a pond hockey game one winter afternoon when I shared my intention that, when the time was right, I would put my name forward and dedicate myself to serving the residents of Quinte West.

As a lifelong resident, I was born and raised in Quinte West and have had the privilege of raising my own family here. My roots in this community run deep, and I am grateful for the opportunities and support that Quinte West has provided to my family and me throughout the years. It would be a tremendous honour to give back to a community that has contributed so much to my personal and professional development.

Following college, I began my career in the automotive and aerospace machining industry, where I worked for 11 years as a machinist and proud union member. During that time, I served for four years as a union steward, advocating for and representing the interests of my fellow employees. When the facility closed during the 2008 financial crisis, I chose to pursue a new professional path and returned to school to study culinary arts.

Together with my partner and their family, I helped establish and operate a restaurant, where I managed the culinary team for five years. In 2013, I earned my Red Seal Certification through the Ontario College of Trades, further strengthening my commitment to professional excellence. I later expanded my experience within the healthcare sector, where I spent several years serving seniors and supporting the delivery of quality care services and managing a team of 20 front line staff.

In 2018, I joined a Fortune 500 chemical and water solutions company, where I continue to work today. As a territory manager, I oversee a portfolio valued at approximately $1.2 million, requiring strong fiscal responsibility, strategic planning and sound business judgment. Throughout my career, I have remained committed to achieving meaningful results, earning numerous awards and recognitions, including a Leadership Award in 2024. In 2026, I was promoted to senior territory manager in recognition of my consistent performance, leadership and proven track record of delivering on organizational objectives.

In addition to my professional experience, I have maintained a longstanding commitment to community involvement through the sport of baseball. I have served as an umpire for eight years, a coach for two years and a member of an executive committee for five years, contributing to the development and governance of the sport at the local level. Currently, I serve as chairperson of the Property Standards Committee for the City of Quinte West, where I work collaboratively to support and uphold community standards.

2. How would you describe your personal political ideology and/or affiliation?

I do not align myself with any particular political party or affiliation. In each election cycle, whether provincial or federal, I carefully evaluate the merits of each candidate’s platform and cast my vote accordingly.

I am also not a proponent of strategic voting. In my view, political discourse has become increasingly focused on partisanship rather than principles. I believe individuals should vote for the candidate who best reflects their values, priorities, and vision for the future.

3. What are the three most common issues voters bring up to you as you campaign?

While campaigning door to door and corresponding with residents through email, I have had the opportunity to hear firsthand about the issues that matter most to our community.

1. Property taxes and value for money. Residents are highly aware of the significant tax increases experienced over the past several years, particularly the 4.99 per cent increase in 2025. Many are seeking assurance that taxpayer dollars are being managed responsibly and that municipal services are delivering appropriate value.
2. Aging infrastructure. Concerns regarding infrastructure, particularly the condition of local roads, are among the most frequently discussed topics. Residents have expressed frustration with the state of disrepair in certain areas and are looking for continued investment and long-term planning to address these challenges.
3. Community cleanliness and public safety. Residents have also raised concerns regarding litter, waste management and the presence of temporary shelters on public property. These discussions often reflect a broader desire to maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming community for all who live, work and visit here.

4. What three issues are most pressing/important to address locally in your opinion?

The three most pressing issues facing our community today are:

1. Developing sustainable, long-term solutions for residents experiencing housing insecurity. Whether through initiatives such as Hastings County’s recently launched HomeForward Program or other supportive housing strategies, addressing the lack of permanent housing is essential. Housing instability is often closely linked to food insecurity, unemployment and underemployment, making it a foundational issue that requires continued attention and investment.
2. Ensuring fiscal responsibility and maintaining a sustainable municipal budget. With operational costs expected to continue rising, particularly in areas such as waste management and essential public services, it is critical that municipal funds are managed prudently. I believe every taxpayer dollar should be spent with the same care and accountability as one’s own.
3. Promoting and investing in ongoing infrastructure growth and development. Strategic investment in infrastructure not only creates quality employment opportunities, but also strengthens the municipality’s tax base. Particular emphasis should be placed on attracting and supporting manufacturing growth while encouraging balanced residential development through a mix of housing options.

5. What do you feel sets you apart from other candidates?

I believe in a feedback-rich environment. I am not afraid of tough questions or criticism; in fact, we should embrace it. As councillors, we are here to serve our community. I will always be available by phone or email.