1) Why are you running?
I am running for the position of Deputy Mayor, because I have a vision of Saugeen Shores. I remember what my community was like when I was younger and I want to make sure everybody has that opportunity. I know what it was, what it is and what it can be. I believe we need to control growth and development. We need to improve our Recreational facilities and programs, and most importantly, we need to address the issue of Housing in our community. All of this while still managing our finances and bringing forth responsible budgets.
2) Are there any steps municipalities can take to help ease cost of living concerns?
We are always looking to find efficiencies. Office management, sharing of services and staffing. Every council tries to keep budget increases as low as they can, but there are intangibles that you have to factor in. Wages, and fleet ( cars, trucks and machinery ) always increas in price. We are fortunate in Saugeen Shores that our staff try come to council with a budget that meets the needs of the community and then we decide on what “extras” we can afford.
3) What are your ideas for economic development in your municipality?
We are fortunate in Saugeen Shores to have the Lamont Industrial Park. This is a large parcel of land where we hope to invite new businesses to town. Company’s that are tied into the Bruce Power Mechanical Component Replacement are looking for land they can develop for their company. Saugeen Shoresis open for business and we are actively recruiting new businesses to come here.
4) Do you think the municipality has a role to play in the recruitment and retention of physicians and other healthcare workers?
Yes we do. Municipalities have to be able to attract doctors. We do this by having the facilities and housing that they are looking for. Every community is in competition with each other to attract doctors. It is like a bidding war for their services. Who has the most to offer. In Saugeen Shores we have staff responsible for Doctor Recruitment. It is important to be able to attract doctors to meet the needs of our population
5) What are your views on the revitalization of Port Elgin’s waterfront?
We had a Waterfront Master Plan. It gave recommendation as to how we could revitalize the waterfront in Port Elgin. Our council took those recommendations and in conjunction with a group of local investors we are making a historic investment into the revitalization of our waterfront. Now, just as with any development, not everybody is in agreement with the development. Our council has looked at the needs and we believe the new Cedar Crescent Village will help revitalize the Port Elgin Beach.
6) How would you propose the town manage its projected growth over the next 10 to 20 years?
Saugeen Shores is expected to grow to be larger than Owen Sound in the next 15 years. How do you control that? Our Official Plan states how growth is to occur. People must realize that you can not stop growth. The job of the Municipality is to monitor and shape that growth. The Province and the County dictate what is to occur, our job is to ensure that what happens meets our needs and reflects the community. We do this by asking the public for their thoughts and ideas. Any new development that is planned, always asks for public consultation. By asking for public input, and working with our developers, we can ensure that as we grow, Saugeen Shores keeps its identity while meeting our ever growing needs.