I entered the municipal election for East Kent to fulfill a life-long passion for politics. It is my hope that I will serve the public well and make a real difference while leaving a legacy behind so that people will look back and say that I got it right. I will need your help to do this. My job is to listen and learn from you and not be afraid to reach out for advice. Conversely, I am not afraid to make the tough decisions to move things forward.
I am very passionate about this endeavour and I continue to reach people throughout the ward who are encouraged by my message of change. I have never been more encouraged and optimistic about the future of this municipality. We have the blueprint for success ahead of us; the vision and the plans are there for us to act on. I truly want to develop a strong sense of collaboration on council and work together as a team to find new ways to save tax dollars, reduce property taxes and engage the residents of all communities within Chatham Kent to participate actively in a vibrant community.
Would you support a tax freeze or rollback if it meant reduced staff or services?
Yes I would. Our taxes have increased 9.9% within the past 5 years. I would search for ways to save money and use layoffs as a last resort in order to achieve this.
Would you support an OPP costing study?
In ward 3 there is not enough policing and so we need to get better at ensuring adequate coverage. I would look at it and currently view O.P.P. costing as a tangible alternative.
Would you support examining a volunteer-only fire service if the provincial arbitration system isn’t overhauled?
Yes. In many of the small rural communities, these are the backbone to emergency calls and they do a good job and function superbly in protecting property and saving lives.
Do you believe we should continue our ongoing efforts to attract economic investment from China?
No, I cannot support this. I believe we have to get better at facilitating economic development here at home. This is what I am hearing as I campaign through my riding. I see so much opportunity to support and expand on what we have here presently in Chatham Kent.
Would you support contracting municipal services to the private sector if those services can be delivered more efficiently?
Yes. We need to look for ways to save taxpayer dollars. If we can’t run efficiently by now, it is doubtful we ever will.
Would you support investigating amalgamation of fire/ambulance/police services to reduce costs?
No, not necessarily. Each community within the municipality takes great pride in their ability to staff and provide support in offering these services, especially fire. This identity was established long ago as communities worked hard to get to where they are today.
Would you support a municipal tree-cutting bylaw if it contained incentives for woodlot owners to retain/increase tree cover?
Right now, the 3-year woodlot policy voted on by council on July 14th is in play as of September 1, 2014. This policy continues to be monitored for its effectiveness. Due, to the dollars involved in preparing the policy it deserves a fair implementation period. We need to move forward now with the goal of environmental sustainability for the next generation, our communities and our farmers. My job will be to listen to the constituents and pay close attention over this time period.
Do you believe we need a municipal ombudsman or ethics commissioner such as London and Windsor have added?
No. What is needed is a council that can make good business decisions and work together effectively. I so want to be a part of this process of rebuilding.
