1) Why are you running?
Because I think I can make a difference. I think council needs to think in terms of succession planning for both council and staff and train accordingly. I would bring a different leadership style to council, one that includes and values everyone’s opinion, I would encourage everyone to have an opinion on all items presented to us by staff. I see the role of Mayor as that of one who makes sure everyone feels included in the decision making process, we will not always think the same way, we will not always agree, but each council member should feel free to express their opinion without being disrespected. Sometimes it is the zany idea or thought that paves the way to a solution.
2) Are there any steps municipalities can take to east cost of living concerns? If so, what measures would you support?
I think the best we can do is keep property taxes at an optimum level that ensures services are provided and infrastructure is looked after, while keeping them affordable, not an easy task to do when prices are increasing everywhere. Make sure the our planning department is keeping applications for development moving ahead and that the correct zoning bylaws are in place to allow development. Listen to our residents to know what their needs are.
3) What are your ideas for economic development in your municipality?
Expand the industrial park/business centre at Springmount and the Sunset Strip to bring in more services that will allow more than dry industrial. Is there a way to have services in this area carry over to the Pottawatomi Water system?
4) Do you think the municipality has a role to play in the recruitment and retention of physicians and other healthcare workers?
We are currently represented on the physician recruitment committee with the Town of South Bruce Peninsula. And while healthcare is outside of the municipalities purview I think we can lobby with the upper tier to ensure the provincial and federal governments know that we are serious about representing and getting the best for our residents.
5) Should the township pursue more shared services with neighbouring municipalities?
Yes, this needs to be done in a way that is a win/win for both or all parties involved. We all have similar needs and should work to support each other any way we can. And example here would be the way ITFD has worked with the fire department in Owen Sound.
6) What issue do you believe is a top priority for Georgian Bluffs to tackle during the next term?
There are a number: the BioDigester that is jointly owned with Township of Chatsworth, staff from both municipalities will be bringing a report back to the joint councils early in this new term to determine the future of this facility.
Potable water for Pottawatomi water system and others in the municipality such as residents on Anderson Street and other areas. Quality and quantity of water are an issue at an affordable price are important. We have an existing study done on the East Linton system, let us not see it just sit on the shelf, can it be implemented and how.