Occupation: A Paddle in the Park Kayaking and Beacon Tax Services Sidney.
Background:
I was first elected to municipal office when I was 22. Previous to that I was an intern researcher on Parliament Hill. I own/operate two small business in Sidney. I am currently on council.
1. Why are you running for council?
To give back to Sidney. It is something I have found I am good at. I want to modernize democracy and bring it forward by using the current technology available and make some services available even when the hall is closed.
2. What are your top three issues to tackle, if elected?
Smart growth concepts. Using technology to get the public involved such as Sidney Says (website).
I am also looking for efficiencies by modernizing how the municipality works and how the public interacts with the local government.
3. Is council’s relationship with the business community adequate and what would you change if elected?
Trying to get the business community into a cohesive group. I support the Mayor’s Task Force recommendations. It is a road map forward. Once there is buy in from the merchants, I am looking forward to implementing the road map.
4. What sort of balance should Sidney seek to achieve on its waterfront land?
The waterfront is an asset all residents and visitors enjoy. Where we can get waterfront land and keep it public adds an amenity to the town.
5. How would you contribute to people’s enjoyment in living, working and playing in Sidney?
We have done a lot to improve the ambiance downtown. The lighting makes it more welcoming in the evening to have a walk down Beacon Avenue.
The gardening and trees also add to the welcoming and peaceful aspect of our town.
I support enhancing the outdoor pubic spaces Sidney has.
Getting people to open up about what they enjoy in Sidney will give us a better idea where to enhance.