1) Why are you running?
I became interested in a role in municipal government three years ago when a new subdivision beside our home was going through municipal approvals. I challenged the proposed location for the main entrance to the subdivision as it presented a safety risk to the adjoining neighbourhood with its narrow roads and lack of space for sidewalks or roadside gutters. I was disappointed that no one took the time to drive to the area and understand what they were approving. I went door-to-door, spoke with residents then documented and represented their concerns at council meetings and filed a formal petition with the planning office. Eventually a traffic study was ordered that identified alternative options. Through collaboration between the municipality, developer and ourselves we reached a favourable result. I realized I could serve the community with the skills I’ve amassed working in business along with my leadership, voice of reason and common-sense approach. As Mayor, I will not make any decisions without first understanding the proposed changes. I will take the time to drive to the areas where infrastructure changes are proposed to fully understand the impact on the community. I have the time and energy to commit to this role.
2) Are there any steps municipalities can take to help ease cost of living concerns?
The biggest step municipalities can take to help ease cost of living concerns is to keep property taxes and fees flat for the next year or two until inflation starts to ease then keep increases to less than 2%. That means some projects may have to be delayed but we need to do our part to help. As mayor, I will work with council and staff to keep tax increases to a minimum with a target of zero in year one and less than 2% the following years.
3) What are your ideas for economic development in your municipality?
In Huron-Kinloss the top economic driver is agriculture, followed by tourism. The farming community does a great job at generating secondary businesses outside of farming, but tourism is where we could do more. Most tourists arrive between June and September, so we need to do more to attract them to spend in our community. As mayor, I will work with local business to identify option to increase promotion of businesses that attract people to the towns such as food, antiques, crafts, etc. which also has a ripple effect on other businesses. In Point Clark, I would like to see a set up of some stands near the beach area to capture people visiting the beach. For the off-season, partnering with Kincardine to encourage winter tourism through winter events.
4) Do you think the municipality has a role to play in the recruitment and retention of physicians and other healthcare workers?
The municipalities do have a role to play in the recruitment and retention of physicians and healthcare workers. It takes money to recruit these professionals and the municipalities can contribute money to recruitment. But money isn’t what will keep them here. As mayor, I will meet with local health professionals to understand what they like and don’t like about living in this community. Understand what will keep them here. Then work with the recruitment team to help build that story to attract new healthcare workers. Work also needs to be done to reduce the number of hospital visits. That includes wellness programs in the community along with more engaging community programs for mental and physical wellbeing.