I want to take this opportunity to thank the voters of Grand Forks for your support over the past six years in my role as City Councillor.
I have now conquered the Community Charter, can read volumes of correspondence and I have a clear understanding of Council’s role in governance and advocacy. I am confident that I can provide the leadership and direction as your Mayor - a position I highly respect. I have the time, commitment and work ethics to lead and I want the job.
Challenges exist that we share with many communities across the nation but we are fortunate to live in British Columbia where opportunities are evolving. The City’s $127M infrastructure wrapped up in a twenty-year rebuild Asset Management Plan is ready for senior levels of governments’ funding partnerships.
Downtown revitalization is complete and we’re looking better to outside investors with a vibrant Business Development Plan and Community Profile in two languages. We are marketing vacant city owned properties to bring in revenue, rooftops, growth and children for our schools along with relocating retirees who recognize the affordable lifestyle we do offer.
Youth engagement in local politics and community life through the development of a Youth Council will give youth a platform. Everyone must be involved because we can offer good jobs in local government with pensions and training.
Regional collaboration is important for future environmental stewardship, governance and delivering affordable services. Did you know the Regional District Kootenay Boundary’s (RDKB) 2011 census was under 32,000 and the Association of Kootenay Boundary Local Government’s (AKBLG) population from Big White to the Alberta border is under 180,000 people? We’re too small to work alone.
I am a regional thinker, a good listener and confident that my decisions come from remaining calm and using common sense.