1) Why are you running?
I am running to offer constituents a strong, common-sense approach to leadership for the future of South Bruce, whatever that may look like.
2) Are there any steps municipalities can take to ease cost of living concerns? If so, what measures would you support?
The cost of living is driven off a basket of goods, food, fuel etc, which directly affects the wages of our staff. The municipality only has one way of paying for this, and this is through taxation. If we explore all economic opportunities and avenues of commerce, we should be able offset these necessary increases in wages, and in turn, help offset the cost of living in this municipality.
3) What are your ideas for economic development in your municipality?
My ideas to explore economic development, is to investigate every potential opportunity available to us……not just one project. We say we are a cooperative community, so we need to walk the talk, and not just pick and choose or run by popularity. This should not be a contest to satisfy a certain group of individuals for the short term.
4) Do you think the municipality has a role to play in the recruitment and retention of physicians and other healthcare workers?
Absolutely, the municipality has a very important role to fill when it comes to these committees asking for tax dollars to recruit and retain physicians and other health care workers. It is important for our rate payers to have a voice in something as important as their own health choices, and supportive health care helps a community grow. Tax dollars spent on health care reach far into the wellbeing of a community. The more doctors and nurses that are available for individual consultations, well run emergency rooms, fully operational and vibrant hospitals help new families move to South Bruce.
5) What is your view on South Bruce being a potential host municipality for a deep geologic repository to store spent nuclear fuel?
First, we must finish all the studies involved in the proposed DGR project, and, if it is indeed safe and suitable to be hosted here. We must rely on science and facts, not fear! We also need to hear from our indigenous partners, as they have a lot of interests in this project as well. When all the information is available for everyone, then the community will have their chance to hold a referendum to determine whether the municipality wants to move forward with this project or not.