1) Why are you running?
It all started at our community coffee group a year or two ago. Someone suggested I run for Mayor of the Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula. After much studying, review and discussion with community minded residents, I feel I have much to offer in leadership with my 18 years of municipal employee experience. I have been complimented on my common sense as well as my problem solving and conflict resolution skills. I see the need for team building for staff and councillors, collaboration with knowledgeable community members and other municipalities along with consensus based decision making to build a sustainable enjoyable home to age in place and build strong families.
2) Are there any steps municipalities can take to help ease cost of living concerns?
As always it is a delicate balance to provide improved services and additional services to our property owners by maintaining property taxes at a consistent level. Many residents have shared many cost saving initiatives that have not been implemented and strict review of current expenses is required ie. legal expenses. Just like a household budget there are limitations and priorities that need to be discussed and decided on with the community.
3) What are your ideas for economic development in your municipality?
I have many suggestions personally and a list of community suggestions. Tourism has been developed as a May to October economy. It is vital that this economy be increased to operate year round. New shoulder season recreational activities need to be promoted. Winterizing of accommodations would encourage a conference economy and a great retreat setting. Knowledge based opportunities ie culinery, marine and environmental seminars and schools could be encourage. This would required increase internet service throughout the municipality. Home based businesses also would benefit from increased connectivity. All these initiatives must be developed to be sustainable and limit impact to our precious environment.
4) Do you think a municipality has a role to play in the recruitment and retention of physicians and other healthcare workers?
The past has demonstrated the hard work the community has committed to health services. The Peninsula Family Heath team is celebrating their 10th Anniversary of opening medical offices and hyperbaric services this month. As families move in and seniors strive to ‘Age in Place’ it is critical that the Municipality support continued service and expansion.
5) What issue do you believe is a top priority for Northern Bruce Peninsula to tackle during the next term?
The water and sewage infrastructure has not been expanded or improved for many years. It needs to be at the top of the ‘get it done’ list.
6) What steps could municipalities take to help get more housing built that you support?
Innovation in providing sustainable housing for seasonal workers, seniors and young families needs to start today with the resources that the community already has. I spoke at council in 2021 stating that a municipal and community partnership could be established to provide sustainable housing. Many other municipalities have provided vacant lands and non-profit housing has been built.
