I'm Michael Ankenmann — a professional engineer, wilderness
guide, and community leader running to serve Brunel Ward with
practical, principled leadership.
I'm running to get Council back to the
basics: holding the line on taxes after a nearly 30% increase the last four years,
making Town Hall fast and straightforward to deal with, trusting citizens to
run their own lives and build our shared community, and growing on our terms so
the character of the town we love survives the growth.
Click on any endorsement to pauseTap and hold to pause
“Mike is a long time Huntsville resident. He has proven himself with strong leadership roles, an understanding of local politics, a desire to serve people and strong fiscal responsibility. His character and qualities would be an asset to this town. As well, his engineering background would be an asset to the town as they review projects and infrastructure.”
MMichael ZammitLocal business owner
“As a board member at the Table Food Bank I have seen him work with confidence, commitment and great insight. Michael is able to navigate and lead people through tough situations, he truly cares for people. His calm and compassionate care for individuals as well as the community would be a wonderful asset to the town of Huntsville.”
SSusie LaRoseFormer Board Member at The Table Foundation
“I have known Michael for over 20 years and have witnessed him lead organizations in a way that benefits everyone involved. His unwavering integrity and genuine desire to make our town a safe and successful place to live are qualities we will all appreciate. Michael has always been the first to offer help where needed, and he has earned my total trust to represent and work for the betterment of our community.”
DDolf WitloxLocal real estate agent
“I am pleased to endorse Michael Ankenmann for Huntsville Town Council. He has a proven record of leadership and management, and I know him to be a thoughtful and principled individual. As a strong independent thinker he will bring wisdom, fiscal responsibility, and a steady voice of reason to council while remaining approachable and committed to listening to the people he serves.”
JJohn KoncanDentist, Sunrise Centre Dental
“Michael loves Huntsville and has already been an engaged, constructive voice bringing ideas to council long before running for a seat. I've also seen his character up close as a leader, and he's exactly the kind of steady, thoughtful person I want representing our community.”
MMitchell ShieldsLocal financial advisor
“I believe that Michael Ankenmann represents the values and vision that our community needs. Michael has consistently demonstrated strong leadership qualities and an unwavering commitment to those facing financial insecurity through the CAP [Debt Centre]. Michael's dedication to mentoring helps guide new leaders and builds a strong foundation for future success.”
CChristine Barkey GrahamOwner of Huntsville Home Hardware
“Mike was the Executive Director at Camp Mini-Yo-We for many years. During those years he used his civil engineering qualifications to improve and progress Camp significantly… he was very careful with financial expenditures and transactions.”
AAllan HoltRetired nuclear engineer
“Michael Ankenmann has the rare gift of combining humility, kindness, and a caring presence with a strategic, intelligent, and high capacity ability to see the big picture and create results. Whether that is with organization building or blessing those in need, if Mike is on your team the job is well done.”
AAdam TruaxLeadership Pathway Director at Camp Mini-Yo-We
“Mike is a long time Huntsville resident. He has proven himself with strong leadership roles, an understanding of local politics, a desire to serve people and strong fiscal responsibility. His character and qualities would be an asset to this town. As well, his engineering background would be an asset to the town as they review projects and infrastructure.”
MMichael ZammitLocal business owner
“As a board member at the Table Food Bank I have seen him work with confidence, commitment and great insight. Michael is able to navigate and lead people through tough situations, he truly cares for people. His calm and compassionate care for individuals as well as the community would be a wonderful asset to the town of Huntsville.”
SSusie LaRoseFormer Board Member at The Table Foundation
“I have known Michael for over 20 years and have witnessed him lead organizations in a way that benefits everyone involved. His unwavering integrity and genuine desire to make our town a safe and successful place to live are qualities we will all appreciate. Michael has always been the first to offer help where needed, and he has earned my total trust to represent and work for the betterment of our community.”
DDolf WitloxLocal real estate agent
“I am pleased to endorse Michael Ankenmann for Huntsville Town Council. He has a proven record of leadership and management, and I know him to be a thoughtful and principled individual. As a strong independent thinker he will bring wisdom, fiscal responsibility, and a steady voice of reason to council while remaining approachable and committed to listening to the people he serves.”
JJohn KoncanDentist, Sunrise Centre Dental
“Michael loves Huntsville and has already been an engaged, constructive voice bringing ideas to council long before running for a seat. I've also seen his character up close as a leader, and he's exactly the kind of steady, thoughtful person I want representing our community.”
MMitchell ShieldsLocal financial advisor
“I believe that Michael Ankenmann represents the values and vision that our community needs. Michael has consistently demonstrated strong leadership qualities and an unwavering commitment to those facing financial insecurity through the CAP [Debt Centre]. Michael's dedication to mentoring helps guide new leaders and builds a strong foundation for future success.”
CChristine Barkey GrahamOwner of Huntsville Home Hardware
“Mike was the Executive Director at Camp Mini-Yo-We for many years. During those years he used his civil engineering qualifications to improve and progress Camp significantly… he was very careful with financial expenditures and transactions.”
AAllan HoltRetired nuclear engineer
“Michael Ankenmann has the rare gift of combining humility, kindness, and a caring presence with a strategic, intelligent, and high capacity ability to see the big picture and create results. Whether that is with organization building or blessing those in need, if Mike is on your team the job is well done.”
AAdam TruaxLeadership Pathway Director at Camp Mini-Yo-We
“Mike is a long time Huntsville resident. He has proven himself with strong leadership roles, an understanding of local politics, a desire to serve people and strong fiscal responsibility. His character and qualities would be an asset to this town. As well, his engineering background would be an asset to the town as they review projects and infrastructure.”
MMichael ZammitLocal business owner
“As a board member at the Table Food Bank I have seen him work with confidence, commitment and great insight. Michael is able to navigate and lead people through tough situations, he truly cares for people. His calm and compassionate care for individuals as well as the community would be a wonderful asset to the town of Huntsville.”
SSusie LaRoseFormer Board Member at The Table Foundation
“I have known Michael for over 20 years and have witnessed him lead organizations in a way that benefits everyone involved. His unwavering integrity and genuine desire to make our town a safe and successful place to live are qualities we will all appreciate. Michael has always been the first to offer help where needed, and he has earned my total trust to represent and work for the betterment of our community.”
DDolf WitloxLocal real estate agent
“I am pleased to endorse Michael Ankenmann for Huntsville Town Council. He has a proven record of leadership and management, and I know him to be a thoughtful and principled individual. As a strong independent thinker he will bring wisdom, fiscal responsibility, and a steady voice of reason to council while remaining approachable and committed to listening to the people he serves.”
JJohn KoncanDentist, Sunrise Centre Dental
“Michael loves Huntsville and has already been an engaged, constructive voice bringing ideas to council long before running for a seat. I've also seen his character up close as a leader, and he's exactly the kind of steady, thoughtful person I want representing our community.”
MMitchell ShieldsLocal financial advisor
“I believe that Michael Ankenmann represents the values and vision that our community needs. Michael has consistently demonstrated strong leadership qualities and an unwavering commitment to those facing financial insecurity through the CAP [Debt Centre]. Michael's dedication to mentoring helps guide new leaders and builds a strong foundation for future success.”
CChristine Barkey GrahamOwner of Huntsville Home Hardware
“Mike was the Executive Director at Camp Mini-Yo-We for many years. During those years he used his civil engineering qualifications to improve and progress Camp significantly… he was very careful with financial expenditures and transactions.”
AAllan HoltRetired nuclear engineer
“Michael Ankenmann has the rare gift of combining humility, kindness, and a caring presence with a strategic, intelligent, and high capacity ability to see the big picture and create results. Whether that is with organization building or blessing those in need, if Mike is on your team the job is well done.”
AAdam TruaxLeadership Pathway Director at Camp Mini-Yo-We
“Mike is a long time Huntsville resident. He has proven himself with strong leadership roles, an understanding of local politics, a desire to serve people and strong fiscal responsibility. His character and qualities would be an asset to this town. As well, his engineering background would be an asset to the town as they review projects and infrastructure.”
MMichael ZammitLocal business owner
“As a board member at the Table Food Bank I have seen him work with confidence, commitment and great insight. Michael is able to navigate and lead people through tough situations, he truly cares for people. His calm and compassionate care for individuals as well as the community would be a wonderful asset to the town of Huntsville.”
SSusie LaRoseFormer Board Member at The Table Foundation
“I have known Michael for over 20 years and have witnessed him lead organizations in a way that benefits everyone involved. His unwavering integrity and genuine desire to make our town a safe and successful place to live are qualities we will all appreciate. Michael has always been the first to offer help where needed, and he has earned my total trust to represent and work for the betterment of our community.”
DDolf WitloxLocal real estate agent
“I am pleased to endorse Michael Ankenmann for Huntsville Town Council. He has a proven record of leadership and management, and I know him to be a thoughtful and principled individual. As a strong independent thinker he will bring wisdom, fiscal responsibility, and a steady voice of reason to council while remaining approachable and committed to listening to the people he serves.”
JJohn KoncanDentist, Sunrise Centre Dental
“Michael loves Huntsville and has already been an engaged, constructive voice bringing ideas to council long before running for a seat. I've also seen his character up close as a leader, and he's exactly the kind of steady, thoughtful person I want representing our community.”
MMitchell ShieldsLocal financial advisor
“I believe that Michael Ankenmann represents the values and vision that our community needs. Michael has consistently demonstrated strong leadership qualities and an unwavering commitment to those facing financial insecurity through the CAP [Debt Centre]. Michael's dedication to mentoring helps guide new leaders and builds a strong foundation for future success.”
CChristine Barkey GrahamOwner of Huntsville Home Hardware
“Mike was the Executive Director at Camp Mini-Yo-We for many years. During those years he used his civil engineering qualifications to improve and progress Camp significantly… he was very careful with financial expenditures and transactions.”
AAllan HoltRetired nuclear engineer
“Michael Ankenmann has the rare gift of combining humility, kindness, and a caring presence with a strategic, intelligent, and high capacity ability to see the big picture and create results. Whether that is with organization building or blessing those in need, if Mike is on your team the job is well done.”
AAdam TruaxLeadership Pathway Director at Camp Mini-Yo-We
“When I hear the word "Leader," Michael Ankenmann comes to mind. Not only because of his seemingly natural ability to organize and engage a group, but because of his humble and genuine nature. Michael is constantly thinking of and doing good for others, sacrificing his time and energy without a second thought… Michael is quick to listen and thoughtful to speak, offering his wisdom, experience and advice…”
AAmanda ZammitHigh School teacher
“Michael is someone I have known for several years, and he is a sound leader with a moral compass driven by values. Michael absolutely brings foresight for future generations, and I support that.”
MMike GrahamOwner of Huntsville Home Hardware
“For over 25 years, I have known Michael to be an honest, compassionate and involved member of our community. I have seen his heart for people when directing one of the largest camps in the area and also when helping people manage their finances. His experience and character would be invaluable in helping shape the future of Huntsville.”
AAlan PatonLocal financial advisor
“Michael has been an exemplary leader in many different areas over the more than 20 years we have known him and his family. Leading through example and looking for ways to help, improve, support and activate for others is a strength we can all benefit from in our community. Mike is dependable and willing to go the extra mile for all that cross his path…”
AAnzie WitloxLocal real estate agent
“I have known Michael Ankenmann for more than a decade. His dedication to fiscal responsibility and community driven development makes him the best choice for our town council. I am proud to give him my full support and urge you to vote for him.”
SStanley MoulsonLocal resident
“I have known Michael for 20+ years as a friend through Camp Mini-Yo-We, and have seen him work effectively as a leader of complex organizations. Michael has credible experience and compassion for improving the circumstances of the more challenged members of our community.”
GGrant BartlettRetired accountant
“I believe that Michael Ankenmann will be a fresh viewpoint for our town council as he is community minded, involved in supporting those that the system may overlook, and has values that I can align with as we shape our community for not only the current generations but those to come behind us.”
GGinger BarkeyCAO and co-founder of MBRP
“We have known Mike for over 20 years and appreciate his leadership at Camp Mini-Yo-We and the CAP debt centre. Mike has helped positively impact thousands of kids and families both abroad and locally. As the Executive Director for MYW, with an engineering background, Mike has the heart, experience and the fiscal skills to serve our town.”
TTim & Robin BemmannLocal residents
“I have seen Michael generously give his time, skills, and heart to strengthening our community through his service with multiple organizations that make lives more beautiful in our community. He leads with integrity, dedication, and genuine care, particularly for the future of young people and those facing disadvantage, making a lasting and positive impact wherever he serves.”
EEmily TruaxHuntsville Centre Manager at Christine's Place
“When I hear the word "Leader," Michael Ankenmann comes to mind. Not only because of his seemingly natural ability to organize and engage a group, but because of his humble and genuine nature. Michael is constantly thinking of and doing good for others, sacrificing his time and energy without a second thought… Michael is quick to listen and thoughtful to speak, offering his wisdom, experience and advice…”
AAmanda ZammitHigh School teacher
“Michael is someone I have known for several years, and he is a sound leader with a moral compass driven by values. Michael absolutely brings foresight for future generations, and I support that.”
MMike GrahamOwner of Huntsville Home Hardware
“For over 25 years, I have known Michael to be an honest, compassionate and involved member of our community. I have seen his heart for people when directing one of the largest camps in the area and also when helping people manage their finances. His experience and character would be invaluable in helping shape the future of Huntsville.”
AAlan PatonLocal financial advisor
“Michael has been an exemplary leader in many different areas over the more than 20 years we have known him and his family. Leading through example and looking for ways to help, improve, support and activate for others is a strength we can all benefit from in our community. Mike is dependable and willing to go the extra mile for all that cross his path…”
AAnzie WitloxLocal real estate agent
“I have known Michael Ankenmann for more than a decade. His dedication to fiscal responsibility and community driven development makes him the best choice for our town council. I am proud to give him my full support and urge you to vote for him.”
SStanley MoulsonLocal resident
“I have known Michael for 20+ years as a friend through Camp Mini-Yo-We, and have seen him work effectively as a leader of complex organizations. Michael has credible experience and compassion for improving the circumstances of the more challenged members of our community.”
GGrant BartlettRetired accountant
“I believe that Michael Ankenmann will be a fresh viewpoint for our town council as he is community minded, involved in supporting those that the system may overlook, and has values that I can align with as we shape our community for not only the current generations but those to come behind us.”
GGinger BarkeyCAO and co-founder of MBRP
“We have known Mike for over 20 years and appreciate his leadership at Camp Mini-Yo-We and the CAP debt centre. Mike has helped positively impact thousands of kids and families both abroad and locally. As the Executive Director for MYW, with an engineering background, Mike has the heart, experience and the fiscal skills to serve our town.”
TTim & Robin BemmannLocal residents
“I have seen Michael generously give his time, skills, and heart to strengthening our community through his service with multiple organizations that make lives more beautiful in our community. He leads with integrity, dedication, and genuine care, particularly for the future of young people and those facing disadvantage, making a lasting and positive impact wherever he serves.”
EEmily TruaxHuntsville Centre Manager at Christine's Place
“When I hear the word "Leader," Michael Ankenmann comes to mind. Not only because of his seemingly natural ability to organize and engage a group, but because of his humble and genuine nature. Michael is constantly thinking of and doing good for others, sacrificing his time and energy without a second thought… Michael is quick to listen and thoughtful to speak, offering his wisdom, experience and advice…”
AAmanda ZammitHigh School teacher
“Michael is someone I have known for several years, and he is a sound leader with a moral compass driven by values. Michael absolutely brings foresight for future generations, and I support that.”
MMike GrahamOwner of Huntsville Home Hardware
“For over 25 years, I have known Michael to be an honest, compassionate and involved member of our community. I have seen his heart for people when directing one of the largest camps in the area and also when helping people manage their finances. His experience and character would be invaluable in helping shape the future of Huntsville.”
AAlan PatonLocal financial advisor
“Michael has been an exemplary leader in many different areas over the more than 20 years we have known him and his family. Leading through example and looking for ways to help, improve, support and activate for others is a strength we can all benefit from in our community. Mike is dependable and willing to go the extra mile for all that cross his path…”
AAnzie WitloxLocal real estate agent
“I have known Michael Ankenmann for more than a decade. His dedication to fiscal responsibility and community driven development makes him the best choice for our town council. I am proud to give him my full support and urge you to vote for him.”
SStanley MoulsonLocal resident
“I have known Michael for 20+ years as a friend through Camp Mini-Yo-We, and have seen him work effectively as a leader of complex organizations. Michael has credible experience and compassion for improving the circumstances of the more challenged members of our community.”
GGrant BartlettRetired accountant
“I believe that Michael Ankenmann will be a fresh viewpoint for our town council as he is community minded, involved in supporting those that the system may overlook, and has values that I can align with as we shape our community for not only the current generations but those to come behind us.”
GGinger BarkeyCAO and co-founder of MBRP
“We have known Mike for over 20 years and appreciate his leadership at Camp Mini-Yo-We and the CAP debt centre. Mike has helped positively impact thousands of kids and families both abroad and locally. As the Executive Director for MYW, with an engineering background, Mike has the heart, experience and the fiscal skills to serve our town.”
TTim & Robin BemmannLocal residents
“I have seen Michael generously give his time, skills, and heart to strengthening our community through his service with multiple organizations that make lives more beautiful in our community. He leads with integrity, dedication, and genuine care, particularly for the future of young people and those facing disadvantage, making a lasting and positive impact wherever he serves.”
EEmily TruaxHuntsville Centre Manager at Christine's Place
“When I hear the word "Leader," Michael Ankenmann comes to mind. Not only because of his seemingly natural ability to organize and engage a group, but because of his humble and genuine nature. Michael is constantly thinking of and doing good for others, sacrificing his time and energy without a second thought… Michael is quick to listen and thoughtful to speak, offering his wisdom, experience and advice…”
AAmanda ZammitHigh School teacher
“Michael is someone I have known for several years, and he is a sound leader with a moral compass driven by values. Michael absolutely brings foresight for future generations, and I support that.”
MMike GrahamOwner of Huntsville Home Hardware
“For over 25 years, I have known Michael to be an honest, compassionate and involved member of our community. I have seen his heart for people when directing one of the largest camps in the area and also when helping people manage their finances. His experience and character would be invaluable in helping shape the future of Huntsville.”
AAlan PatonLocal financial advisor
“Michael has been an exemplary leader in many different areas over the more than 20 years we have known him and his family. Leading through example and looking for ways to help, improve, support and activate for others is a strength we can all benefit from in our community. Mike is dependable and willing to go the extra mile for all that cross his path…”
AAnzie WitloxLocal real estate agent
“I have known Michael Ankenmann for more than a decade. His dedication to fiscal responsibility and community driven development makes him the best choice for our town council. I am proud to give him my full support and urge you to vote for him.”
SStanley MoulsonLocal resident
“I have known Michael for 20+ years as a friend through Camp Mini-Yo-We, and have seen him work effectively as a leader of complex organizations. Michael has credible experience and compassion for improving the circumstances of the more challenged members of our community.”
GGrant BartlettRetired accountant
“I believe that Michael Ankenmann will be a fresh viewpoint for our town council as he is community minded, involved in supporting those that the system may overlook, and has values that I can align with as we shape our community for not only the current generations but those to come behind us.”
GGinger BarkeyCAO and co-founder of MBRP
“We have known Mike for over 20 years and appreciate his leadership at Camp Mini-Yo-We and the CAP debt centre. Mike has helped positively impact thousands of kids and families both abroad and locally. As the Executive Director for MYW, with an engineering background, Mike has the heart, experience and the fiscal skills to serve our town.”
TTim & Robin BemmannLocal residents
“I have seen Michael generously give his time, skills, and heart to strengthening our community through his service with multiple organizations that make lives more beautiful in our community. He leads with integrity, dedication, and genuine care, particularly for the future of young people and those facing disadvantage, making a lasting and positive impact wherever he serves.”
EEmily TruaxHuntsville Centre Manager at Christine's Place
I've spent my career leading teams and solving hard
problems. As a professional engineer, the former
Executive Director of Camp Mini-Yo-We (one of our premier Muskoka youth camps),
a wilderness canoe guide, and
the head of our local CAP Debt Centre,
helping our Huntsville neighbours through tough times.
That mix of technical rigour, hands-on leadership experience,
and deep community service is what I'll bring to the council table for
Brunel Ward.
I believe local municipal government is here to help our community thrive,
maintaining a disciplined, fair public government that trusts and empowers our citizens — council
should get out of the way of our exceptional Huntsville residents, protect what makes our community special,
and encourage private citizens as they solve problems, not step in to spend your money on every issue.
It is through smaller, more responsible local government that our communities will thrive.
Principles for Town Council
1
Back to Basics
Taxes have gone up almost 30% in four years, and residents haven't seen
services keep pace. I hear the frustration, and I'll fight to reverse course on
spending and taxes, so more of your money stays where it belongs: in your
household.
Council should stick to the essentials and stay out of your business, your
property, and your life. Council should provide thoughtful leadership, not chase
pet projects.
Huntsville is growing. But growth should happen on our terms, in a way that
protects the friendly, quaint, historic, and beautiful community we all chose to
call home.