1) Why are you running?
It’s time for me to stand for real commitment and leadership in Georgian Bluffs. The residents of Georgian Bluffs deserve strong representation with their council to give them every opportunity that our area has to offer. The opportunities for business diversification throughout our towship are endless and time for council and staff to say ” how can we help to make this happen “. I do not want to see us in the 2026 election saying, “unfortunately we got very little accomplished in the last four years”. I want to be a strong voice to represent Georgian Bluffs at the Grey County council table.
2) Are there any steps municipalities can take to ease cost of living concerns? If so, what measures would you support?
I firmly believe the council needs to be more engaged in the fiscal matters in the municipality. In the past I have seen very little concern with exactly how and where taxpayers money is being used. I am confident we can become more efficient and find ways to save money. Shared services are always beneficial but we need to communicate with our neighbours. These measures could allow us to have a possible rate freeze for a year on property tax. For those on a fixed income, every little bit helps.
3) What are your ideas for economic development in your municipality?
Simple answer, allow it! We have missed out on a tonne of opportunity to grow responsibly and expand.A community needs a range of commercial , industrial, agricultural and residential entities to create a strong economy that will support seniors all the way down to the young families that are just starting out. This can be simply done through our zoning uses in our development and giving our residents the opportunity on a fair and equal playing field.
4) Do you think the municipality has a role to play in the recruitment and retention of physicians and other healthcare workers?
The Mayor and Deputy Mayor have an obligation to represent the township at the Grey County level with these types of issues. This is something that all levels of government in Ontario are dealing with. The fact is, we have a shortage of healthcare workers and it will take time to rebuild the workforce. We need to create a community here that will sell itself to attract new doctors, nurses and paramedics. This is a priority and I would be open to anyone’s comments or recommendations that would help ease the burden.
5) Should the township pursue more shared services with neighbouring municipalities?
We need to share services, this only makes good financial sense. It is crucial to reestablish the lines of communication with our neighbours. This is one of my top priorities if elected, not only with our neighbors but the communication with the residents of Georgian Bluffs needs to be respected and their voice brought back to the council table.
6) What issue do you believe is a top priority for Georgian Bluffs to tackle during the next term?
The list of priorities is very long, I believe that communication and strong leadership is needed to bring back some accountability that is truly lacking in our municipality. Council and staff need to be open and use common sense and respect in dealing with the residents. It is our job to give people not only a voice but the opportunity to grow and prosper, enough of the roadblocks. The biggest issue is simple, we need to get things done! The biodigester is one example of a drain on taxpayers that has been ongoing for years. A plan needs to be put in place and most importantly it needs to be implemented. I strongly feel I have the interest, vision and the ability needed for change and strong leadership in Georgian Bluffs.