Approach to government
There are key things that I believe are at the core of good representation and apply regardless of what issue is under discussion.
[1]
Smart, respectful use of tax dollars. This approach aims to stretch each tax dollar further and puts your hard-earned money to its best use. This helps minimize tax costs. I define “best use” as “expenditures that make life as good as it can be for the most people possible.” Just as we spend wisely in our own household, I apply this “best bang for the buck” thinking to government expenditures whether these are being spent locally, provincially or federally.
[2]
A collaborative approach to decisions. This permits a range of opinions from youth to seniors, as well as from those elected to represent you at the municipal (local), provincial and federal levels to be truly useful and very much welcomed.
[3]
Dealing with issues decisively. For me, that doesn’t mean quickly, but it does mean timely. Mistakes are part of the human condition, governments need to be careful to weigh haste against potential waste. Our decisions must be made based on sound research and evidence and a full exploration of options.
Entering a first term as Mayor, there are four issues on the forefront.
[1]
Zero-based budgeting for Kings County
[2]
Reviewing our new Land Use Bylaw to change areas that are creating unnecessary conflict
[3]
Leading action now to face climate change
[4]
Ensuring your Mayor and Council are ready to lead
Zero-Based Budgeting for Kings County
It is possible to approach a municipal budget in a way similar to our own households. During this affordability crisis households and businesses are facing increased costs at every turn. Keeping pace with rising costs means watching a budget ever more carefully. Families are paying more attention, assessing if they are getting value for each dollar spent, and adjusting. It is possible and necessary for Kings County to do the same by setting a new course for budget management.
Read MoreOur Land Use Bylaws have created Land Use Woes
A Mayor and Council ready to Lead
As your Mayor, I will find ways to respect that each councillor has a leadership role to play. To be better, we will work as a team, steadily drawing an ever-broader base of residents and organizations towards our work.
Read More
Acting now to face climate change
If we love our children and grandchildren at all we must act now to do everything we can to face up to the realities of climate change. As your Mayor, I will work with individuals, communities, and businesses to make our municipality notable in its commitment to climate action in both small and big ways. Read More
