Recently I have submitted my name to compete for the position of Mayor in The Town of the Blue Mountains located within the Georgian Triangle.

I was born and raised in a small community called Duncan, what I refer to as the closest place to Heaven you will ever reach on this earth. I love the people and feel truly blessed to be fortunate enough to live here at the source of my roots.

The Georgian Triangle consists of an incredible mixture of local flavor, a positive influence of city ways, and culture. The area possesses the most beautiful geographical lands and water you could experience along with challenging ski hills, top rate golf courses, and growing equestrian centres. Also, the waters are home to some of the best rainbow and salmon fishing grounds in North America. There are many other activities to explore. The list can go on and on. No wonder people love it here and are doing everything they can to stay or relocate to the area.

The following topics are of a major concern to me, and if elected, I would do my utmost to resolve these very important issues.

TOWN IS FINED MILLIONS FOR DELAY

There are many individuals who complain of a lack of communication, poor cooperation, and a leisurely response time from the existing council. For example, some who are applying for development proposals, zoning changes, severances, and any number of items, express their frustration at the way things are handled, and / or not. The existing system is not working, and as a result, is costing the municipality hundreds and thousands of dollars. A review of how these issues are being handled should be considered. The necessary changes to improve on these situations need to be implemented as soon as possible. We must avoid delays and lost revenue for both the applicant and the town. The money spent on legal representation alone for The Town of the Blue Mountains in the year 2002 will be staggering. The Town Official Plan has been in the works several years. Numerous postponements have taken place and as of March 10, 2003 there is yet to be an Official Plan accepted at the county level. Ironically, a municipality Official Plan is should be reviewed every four to five years! We need change, and we need it now!

TOURISM AND AGRICULTURE

At times there is concern with blending the booming population of the Georgian Triangle with our farmers and fruit growers. While attempting to work at their professions and provide us with life sustaining products, they are often ridiculed for the odor caused from their livestock, and / or the spreading of the animals’ waste. Complaints from drivers may arise because of slow moving vehicles such as tractors, or because of concerns about the spraying of fruit trees. Continuing education for our residents about this very important industry is a must.

HAVE AN OPEN AND RESPONSIVE COUNCIL

When speaking with some residents, I have found that there is a state of division between the locals and the part time or full time residents that have moved to the area. This is partly due to poor communication and action. This gap must be bridged at the council level, and the term those city people, or local yokels will hopefully disappear. I do not believe in prejudices of any kind.

It is essential to have a positive communication base with all groups and associations and an open door policy, per say. All persons deserve to be heard and treated with respect. Follow up on issues is essential and response should be given back to the individual or group, in a timely manner.

MAIL IN VOTING

I support mail in voting of some form. I believe that it can be researched to ensure corruption of the votes does not occur. Anyone that owns property or is on the voters list deserves the opportunity to exercise their right to vote. This is not just a convenience for the developer as recently rumored; it benefits anyone that finds it difficult to travel to the Town of the Blue Mountains.

I have given this a lot of thought and really do not understand council’s hesitation to implement such a service.