1) Why are you running?
Our family still lives on the farm settled by my ancestors in the mid-1800’s. Both my wife, Bonnie Warder and I have deep roots on the Peninsula and that has always been my inspiration to be involved in municipal government. It has been an honour to serve as Mayor of Northern Bruce Peninsula since Amalgamation in 1999 and this long-term involvement gives me a sound understanding of our area.
Council will face many challenges in the upcoming term and I would appreciate the opportunity to continue being a strong advocate for the entire Municipality.
We are fortunate to live in this beautiful area and if re-elected I will continue to represent you in a professional and respectful fashion so we can all be proud of our home.
It is important to work together to make the Municipality the best it can be!
2) Are there any steps municipalities can take to help ease cost of living concerns?
The cost of living is a concern for all! The Municipality has no control over the main drivers of inflation, such as fuel, food, and housing costs.
Recent amendments to the Bruce County Official Plan and Local Zoning Bylaw to allow reduced square footage for residences and additional dwelling units on the same lot as the principal residence may help to alleviate some housing costs. Council recently received the Attainable Housing Report and the recommendations should be considered to improve opportunities for housing in the Municipality. Also trying to keep municipal taxes at an acceptable level should continue to be a goal for the future council. Continual investigating of programs for our residents is very important and working together with other agencies to maintain a good quality of life.
3) What are your ideas for economic development in your municipality?
Our Municipality must continue to support our local schools and healthcare as an integral part of economic development. The recent announcement of the renovation of the St. Edmunds school for 39 Childcare spaces is a perfect example of assistance to keep services close to home. Advocating for improved Cell Service and Broadband Capability must continue for our economic growth. The management of our beautiful area will continue to require upgrades and improvements to the existing infrastructure for our future comfort and enjoyment. I would continue to encourage the public to participate in providing any ideas to Council and to work together to create a bright future.
4) Do you think a municipality has a role to play in the recruitment and retention of physicians and other healthcare workers?
Northern Bruce Peninsula is extremely fortunate to have great healthcare close to home. Our Family Health Team is very successful with their program for recruitment and retention of physicians and other healthcare workers. In the past, the Municipality has assisted in a very minor way and should continue to play a role if requested by them.
5) What issue do you believe is a top priority for Northern Bruce Peninsula to tackle during the next term?
In my opinion, there will be many challenges during the upcoming term of Council. One of the top priorities will be managing the popularity of our beautiful area to navigate a balance with supporting the business community and the enjoyment of the permanent and seasonal residents. The Municipality will require upgrades to our existing infrastructure, including Cell Service and Broadband capability.
6) What steps could municipalities take to help get more housing built that you support?
The current Council recently received the Attainable Housing Report and the recommendations should be reviewed and considered to help improve housing opportunities in the Municipality. Thank you for this opportunity to touch on some of the issues, as outlined by you that are on the minds of the voters. Although it is impossible to cover all aspects of the Municipality in this short space, please feel free to contact me with any questions.