Leading with Purpose, Building with People reflects my belief that effective municipal leadership starts with a clear vision and a commitment to serving the community. Leading with purpose means making thoughtful decisions that support long-term prosperity, sustainability, and quality of life for residents across Woodstock and Oxford County.
Building with people means recognizing that the best solutions come from listening, collaborating, and working alongside residents, businesses, community organizations, and fellow municipal leaders.
This campaign is rooted in the belief that strong communities are built through partnership, respect, and a genuine commitment to putting people at the centre of every decision.
Bernia Martin for Deputy Mayor
Bernia is a proven leader, municipal councillor, and advocate for building a stronger, more connected Woodstock. As a candidate for Deputy Mayor and County Councillor, Bernia is committed to affordable housing, economic growth, responsible infrastructure investment, accessible childcare, community well-being, and creating opportunities for residents of all ages. With a track record of collaboration and results, Bernia is focused on ensuring Woodstock remains one of Ontario's best places to live, work, raise a family, and retire.
The Leadership Our City Needs, Today
About Bernia
Besides the council chamber and committee meetings, where are you likely to see me around Woodstock?
Our parks and trails are one of our greatest assets, and my adult children and I enjoy them every week. Whether we're taking a walk through Southside Park or exploring one of our favourite trails along the Pittock, we value every opportunity to get outside, stay active, and appreciate the natural beauty and wildlife that make our community special.
As someone who both lives and works downtown, I also spend a great deal of time in the city core. You might spot me enjoying a conversation with a neighbour, supporting a local business, or stopping for a favourite treat at one of our many wonderful shops and cafés.
Another place close to our hearts is the Woodstock Public Library. It is much more than a place to borrow books, it’s a welcoming community hub where you can plan a getaway, connect with residents, learn something new, or enjoy a board game with family and friends.
And, of course, I am always grateful for opportunities to attend community events and celebrations. Woodstock has a remarkable way of bringing people together, and I enjoy joining friends, neighbours, and fellow residents whenever time permits.
A New Position in Woodstock: Deputy Mayor
In March 2025, Woodstock City Council took an important step toward strengthening local leadership by approving the creation of a Deputy Mayor–County Councillor position to begin with the 2026 municipal election.
Rather than increasing the size of Council, the change redesignates one of the existing City-County Councillor seats, ensuring Woodstock maintains its current representation at Oxford County while creating a clearly defined leadership role to support the Mayor and provide continuity when needed.
The Deputy Mayor will be elected directly by residents and will serve both at City Hall and on County Council, helping to ensure that Woodstock's voice remains strong and well represented at both levels of government. This new role recognizes the growing complexity of municipal issues and the importance of having experienced leadership ready to step forward, advocate for residents, and help advance the priorities that matter most to our community.
PROVEN RESULTS
As a Woodstock and Oxford County Councillor, Bernia has focused on delivering practical results that improve quality of life, support responsible growth, and strengthen the community for future generations. Working collaboratively with council colleagues, community partners, and residents, Bernia has championed initiatives that enhance municipal services, support families, protect the environment, and position Woodstock and Oxford County for long-term success.
Highlights of Bernia's work include:
• Supporting the implementation of Oxford County's Green Bin Organics Program ahead of schedule, helping divert waste from landfill while providing a convenient new service for residents.
• Advocating for affordable and attainable housing initiatives, including policies that encourage diverse housing options and support sustainable residential growth throughout the community.
• Championing investments in community well-being, including age-friendly planning, expanded childcare opportunities, and initiatives that make Woodstock a more inclusive and welcoming place for residents of all ages.
Bernia believes local government works best when it delivers measurable results, listens to residents, and plans responsibly for the future. Her record reflects a commitment to building a strong, vibrant, and sustainable Woodstock and Oxford County.
Bernia Martin alongside Jordan Kent at the 2024 PRIDE Family Day event in downtown Woodstock.
Ready to Support Bernia For Deputy Mayor?
VOLUNTEER
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REQUEST A SIGN
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News & Updates
In January, I set out on a journey to document issues and ideas in written form. The platform I use to communicate with local residents is called, Substack. (That's a fancy term for a blog.)
This is a space for open conversation, local insight, and shared ideas about our community. This is a place where I share updates on local issues, explain decisions being made at the council table, and highlight the people, organizations, and initiatives that make our city and county a great place to live and work. Most importantly, it’s meant to be a two-way conversation, grounded in transparency, respect, and a genuine commitment to listening. I hope this helps keep you informed, invites thoughtful discussion, and strengthens the connection between local government and the community I am honoured to serve.