Hello once again to all my blog followers and readers,
Well, it’s time for the fifth series of questions for our candidates. I must thank you all once again for the positive feedback and enthusiasm! Keep the ideas for questions coming!
Tonight we’re getting right down to business. Here we go!
Here are the two questions that were asked this week to the list of candidates and their answers (in alphabetical order by position) :
Question number 1 :
If elected, which leadership qualities do you think you will bring to the table to work with your council colleagues, administration and the residents?
Aldo DiCarlo (Candidate for Mayor)
Before I was elected mayor in 2014, I attended council meetings and witnessed what was described as an atmosphere of disrespect and lack of order. It was also not an open environment for respectful debate and opinions. After taking office, I met with many business owners and developers to solicit feedback on why Amherstburg had such a negative reputation and seemed stagnant for new businesses and development. The atmosphere among the administration and the staff also seemed fractured. I believe I have proven one of my past election slogans, ‘bringing people together’. Of course this doesn’t mean that everyone agreed on all issues, but council meetings are clearly more respectful and open. Barriers that business owners spoke of have mostly been removed. Administration and staff have provided positive feedback to a much more respectful work environment. I believe in leading by example, and I believe I have maintained a respectful nature almost always. I believe these qualities have helped to rebuild some trust and respect with council, administration, staff and residents. There is always room for improvement, and if elected, I plan on continuing the leadership style I have built in the last 3 and 1/2 years. Also during the 2014 election, I promoted qualities of transparency, accountability and authenticity. I believe I have maintained these leadership qualities in all cases and were legally possible. I have always been clear in my opinions in messaging so that residents, and others, at least knew who I was and what I stood for. It wasn’t always well received by all, but it was genuine so that residents could hold me accountable when the time came.
Glenn Swinton (Candidate for Mayor)
No response provided.
Richard (Rick) Fryer (Candidate for Deputy Mayor)
Many people can answer his question on Leadeeship in so many different ways but demonstrating it each and everyday is much more difficult to do. I personally find that leadership doesn’t mean you have to be the one in front of the room all the time but rather at the back listening to what residence concerns realy mean to them. I enjoy helping people overcome whatever situation they come across as a Member of Council or even in every day life. My way of showing leadership has always been by putting everyone else before me. I throughly enjoy hear from poeple that “ I should have call you first because I was told you will get this done”. Comments like this I have heard over and over again and I appreciate the fact that what affects you in our Community I strive to get the answers for you In a most effective efficienct manner that please you the ratepayer. I have demonstrated the willingness to work with all my colleagues around the Council Table and will continue the openness if I have the pleaseure to represent our Community for the next 4 years as your Deputy Mayor.
Sincerely
Elect
Rick Fryer
Deputy Mayor
519-996-6987
Leo Meloche (Candidate for Deputy Mayor)
My analytical skills have been a real asset to making decisions. I have never backed down from doing the work that is necessary to getting the task done. When others around, be it colleagues, administration or residents see this they typically elevate their efforts.
Diane Pouget (Candidate for Deputy Mayor)
No response provided.
Bob Rozankovic (Candidate for Deputy Mayor)
There are many leadership qualities that are important and I’d like to think I bring the following to the table…
There is no more important quality than the ability to listen to all perspectives in a discussion. With regards to residents…they are the reason someone got elected so always provide the courtesy to make time to listen to them. Council colleagues will not always start with the same opinion but in listening to each other there usually will be found some compromise. Administration brings their skill set to council via reports that typically are rooted in some form of legislation and as such, listening to their advice is mandatory.
The ability to understand an issue and all its ramifications is critical to a successful council. I have negotiated two police contracts that were fair to both the town and the police service. This was done without any arbitration or labour issues. If you choose to keep an open mind and ensure everyone fully understands the issue, then a satisfactory conclusion is inevitable.
I believe in providing honest answers to our residents, even when the answer is “I don’t know”. This will develop credibility and trust that is the bedrock of a successful council.
Flexibility goes hand-in-hand with listening. We all start with a particular position but by being flexible, unless it goes against our core values, we are able to reach a consensus. Flexibility also provides us with the opportunity to learn from our mistakes and become better as we tackle new issues.
Frank Cleminson (Candidate for Councillor)
No response provided.
Peter Courtney (Candidate for Councillor)
No response provided.
Pauline Gemmell (Candidate for Councillor)
No response provided.
Libby (Elizabeth) Keenan (Candidate for Councillor)
if elected I think I will bring a number of positive leadership qualities to the table. For many years I served on the boards or the executive of several different Charitable Organizations in Essex primarily aimed at providing opportunites for youth in sport. I have learned how to present ideas in a clear and understandable way. I am able to prioritize amongst a large number of options. In a group I am cooperative and yet remain true to my convictions. I am articulate, well spoken and able to put pen to paper in logical and palatable fashion.
I always to seek to find win/win solutions to problems I am working on in a group and am not always in need of having the last word or winning a debate although I have no issues strongly defending my position. I am willing to learn from others and live up to my expected duties to the very best of my abilities. I am punctual and prepared for meetings and other functions I may be asked to attend. I feel that I am good and productive at creative thinking with regards to problems I may be asked to solve. I am willing to be corrected and not overly sensitive to criticism, yet try to take that and improve my performance. I have spent very many years both as a coach and a student in competitive sport and feel I have learned a great deal about reacting positively to group situations as a result even under difficult circumstances as well as being able to give and take direction. I am respectful of the privacy and personal space of others. I believe I would be an effective and valuable member of the Council of the Town of Amherstburg. My goals at all times would be to achieve solutions that would best serve the majority of residents of the Town of Amherstburg.. Libby Keenan
Jason Lavigne (Candidate for Councillor)
No response provided.
Lena Lazanja (Candidate for Councillor)
Born and raised in Toronto Ontario, I came to the Windsor region in 1996 to begin my studies at the University of Windsor. My leadership qualities were fostered through a challenging academic career, consisting of an undergraduate Bachelor of Arts degree, with a double major in English Language, Literature &Creative Writing and Anthropology, a Bachelor of Education, a Master of Arts degree in Sociology, and a Master’s degree in Education, with a focus on Curriculum Design. My post-secondary efforts include teaching English as a Second Language, involvement as a research assistant and graduate lecturer, and participation on the University of Windsor’s Board of Governors as the Graduate Student Society President & Women’s Issues Liaison. I am currently working towards the completion of my PhD in Education, where my research focuses on pre-school curriculum design, implementation, and the future direction of Early Childhood Education in Ontario.
Throughout my academic career, I have had considerable experience with data management, research and reporting, as well as the development, presentation, and maintenance of operational and policy guidelines and procedures for various public sector institutions and departments. I am also proficient in presenting to a varied group of individuals, across a range of disciplines and organizations, and have considerable experience in professional editing, writing, and communicating with the public. I have been actively involved on a number of hiring committees and working groups at the University of Windsor and service organizations within my community, providing me with the opportunity to work collaboratively with senior administrators, community partners, faculty, and students, across the region. As such, I recognize the importance of working collaboratively with administration towards excellence by linking policies to practice, in order to strive for success, strength, and stability, in the community.
From designing tutorials, assessment tools and guidelines for post-secondary and graduate students, to writing/reviewing funding applications, providing project assistance and office management to both educators and executives, I have garnered the leadership capacities and developmental skills that are fundamental to functioning productively and effectively with my colleagues and community, through proactive communication, customer service, and civic responsibility. To become a part of the successful operations of the Town of Amherstburg Council, would provide me with the opportunity to work side by side with those experts in the field who have helped to shape our community through their tireless service.
My proficient research/educational background and teaching experience, has provided me with numerous opportunities to showcase my own tireless commitment to performing assigned tasks and duties effectively, independently, and in a timely manner. My strong organizational skills, efficiency in multi-tasking, as well as my abilities to effectively organize and implement policy review, design, analysis, and assessment, is apparent through my experiences as an administrative leader at the post-secondary level, in my recent workplaces, and within my community as a volunteer. Such roles and responsibilities have prepared me to meet the demands and challenges of this position.
I believe that the opportunity to be one of your elected councillors, will allow me to build upon my educational experiences and leadership abilities, by further exposing me to programming and policy-related issues within Amherstburg and the surrounding communities. Since moving to the town of Amherstburg, I have been an active resident and community volunteer. Working with a variety of service organizations, and participating on numerous advisory boards in Amherstburg and the surrounding municipalities of Windsor and Essex County, I have assisted with the implementation of many local projects and community-wide initiatives. In 2016, I was awarded the Police Chief’s Award of Excellence for my long-standing commitment and service to our town.
Most recently, my role as the Executive Board Secretary with the Royal Canadian Legion, Fort Malden Branch 157, has provided me with insight to veteran affairs and assistance programming for our rapidly-expanding senior population. As the past General Manager of the Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce, I have personally worked alongside many of our local business owners to help promote their needs within the community, and to assist in providing a leadership forum for the advancement of economic vitality in Amherstburg. As decade-long member of Rotary Club of Amherstburg, where I voluntarily served four years as their President, I have partnered with community leaders and visionaries to enhance the lives of town residents and beyond: The award-winning and provincially recognized “Operation Lifeline”, which saw the delivery of smoke detectors to Amherstburg residents; the building of the Miracle League Baseball Diamond; sponsoring of the Toddy Jones Accessible Playground; assisting with the Backpack Campaign by Amherstburg Community Services; providing funding for the annual Amherstburg Police Bike Rodeo; the 1812 commemorative Peace Sculpture in the King’s Navy Yard Park; main sponsorship of the A.M.A. Sportsmen’s annual Kid’s Fishing Derby; continued funding of the Park House Museum, and most recently, fundraising for the newly built Erie Shores Hospice in Leamington.
As an Amherstburg resident for the past 12 years, I have witnessed the passion and commitment of my fellow residents as we work collectively for the betterment of our town. I am excited by the challenges presented to my role as a potential councillor, and I admire the recent growth, diversity, and successful developments in our town. I am eager to share my knowledge and skills as a town councillor, with an energetic and passionate community such as ours. If I have not made it to your door as of yet, and you would like to discuss my qualifications further, I would be happy to hear from you! Contact me at Lazanja4aburg@gmail.com to arrange, find me on Facebook www.facebook.com/bethechangetogether/ OR follow me on Twitter @LenaMLazanja AND please feel free to visit my website www.bethechangetogether.ca #bethechangetogether
Donald McArthur (Candidate for Councillor)
Good leaders know how to listen. They know how to lead by example and from behind, inspiring and empowering others to realize their potential.
Good leaders know how to build consensus and bring people together. They are relentlessly positive, learning from but not dwelling on their mistakes, focusing always on moving forward.
The best leaders with whom I’ve worked had one thing in common — they would provide me the resources, support, and freedom to get the job done and they would clearly and deliberately set stretch goals, ambitious targets that were obtainable if I worked hard and all the stars aligned. Aim high and if you miss low you’ll still hit your target.
I know how to work hard and set a positive example. I’m honest, passionate and responsive, disciplined, dedicated and down to earth. I’m smart enough to know I don’t know everything and I realize the next great idea could come from anyone at any time so long as we’re open to it. I’m reasonable enough to change my opinion if the facts and circumstances warrant it.
I’m a skilled communicator who can rally the troops with a pep talk or help others refine and express their ideas. I have an ability to see both sides of an issue. I’m an experienced writer fluent in social media and the latest digital publishing techniques and I would use those skills to promote the town and its incredible potential.
In terms of working with my council colleagues, I would respect their opinions and encourage the free and open exchange of ideas. Good ideas become great ones through the clashing of disparate opinions. I would seek consensus and compromise instead of conflict, and I would vote according to my conscience and my constituents, avoiding joining any council voting blocks.
In terms of working with administration, I would like to be part of a council that sets a clear and ambitious direction for town staffers and provides them the support and encouragement to get the job done. I would support the town online and in person by participating in open houses and sharing that information with residents. I would also celebrate town events and successes on social media.
In terms of working with residents, I want to encourage an ongoing dialogue, engaging them using social media and other digital tools. I’ll publish an online newsletter to keep them abreast of council news and publish my voting record online. I’ll actively seek input on significant issues.
I also want to promote town businesses and residents on social media. More and more people are getting their information on digital and mobile platforms and we need to actively promote the good works of our community and the people who call it home as creatively and as often as we can on as many platforms as possible.
We have a great story to tell. It’s time we told the world.
John Menna (Candidate for Councillor)
No response provided.
Gregory Moore (Candidate for Councillor)
My strength is the ability to communicate effectively and convey thoughts and ideas to others in a way that is very palatable. I will also bring a vision of focused teamwork to any environnent.
My previous expériences in managing , origanizing and delegating responsibility will only serve the residents of Amherstburg.
Michael Prue (Candidate for Councillor)
I believe that a good leader is first a good listener. I have always been a consensus politician whether at the municipal or provincial level. Hearing others and accommodating differing opinions make all organizations work better. This is especially true at the municipal level where there are no parties and no government- versus- opposition structures.
A good leader must carefully review programs, statistics and recommendations made by administration and by experts hired to carry out feasibility studies. But a good leader must also know when that advice may be wanting.
Leadership demands that everyone be treated with respect and that all views and values be considered and weighed before decisions are made.
For twenty-six years I had the privilege of leading my former community and with the assistance of residents, ratepayers, and administration it all came together. I believe the same thing should happen everywhere.
Amherstburg is a remarkable town made up of wonderful, caring and generous people. I believe that together we can lead the Town to a prosperous future.
Marc Renaud (Candidate for Councillor)
I am the Past Vice President of Unifor Local 200 representing over 4800 workers for the past 10 years. I worked with many leadership teams, in support of bargaining their contracts and resolving their day to day issues. I have learned you must listen to the question or comments from your peers and respond in constructive manner.
I have served as Amherstburg Minor Hockey President over the past 10 years. With over 500 children playing each in AMHA season, I am the point of contact for the concerns of many parents.
Good leadership is ability to listen to concerns and respond constructively.
Patricia Simone (Candidate for Councillor)
I’m highly adaptable to ever changing circumstances and able to execute duties fully under tight timelines and stressful environments while providing excellence in leadership.
I’m always prepared for meetings.
I have grassroots leadership qualities having worked for the Shores of Erie international Wine Festival as office administrator. During that time, I dealt with 13 members with individual ideas, helping to ensure that we were working together as one group toward one goal.
I have over 12 years experience dealing with federal and provincial government. Roles with the federal and provincial government have included constituency responsibilities, domestic files and coordination with senior members of government staff.
I have over three years experience dealing with cross border issues at the Cross-Border Institute at the University of Windsor.
Ron Sutherland (Candidate for Councillor)
Chose not to participate.
Lori Wightman (Candidate for Councillor)
As the Chairperson of my union CUPE 2974 for 12 years I have essentially worked at the same type of role as council albeit on a somewhat smaller scale. I was required to represent a large group of people while still keeping in mind my responsibilities to the individuals who had diverse wants and needs. I had to work with the heads of two other groups represented by our union to find the best path forward all while dealing with management and the political leaders who directed them.
All of this takes some skill in diplomacy, compromise, and collaboration; it means putting aside personal agendas and feelings and ones own wants for the greater good. It means being informed on many different issues and their impact on multiple groups. I learned to listen, to research, to make sure that I was as knowledgeable as I could possibly be on a subject before making decisions. I learned that I have to own my decisions and be accountable for them to the people that they affect. I learned that representing people is more than just fight and bluster – sometimes it’s being quiet and listening and it is always, always doing your homework.
Question number 2 :
What can the members of town council do to promote economic development and attract new business initiatives to our community?
Aldo DiCarlo (Candidate for Mayor)
One of the changes made by this term of council that I believe needs to be addressed is the elimination of a full time economic development officer. Economic development is arguably one of the more important areas that bring new investments into the town, and maintain the investments made long ago. Although I wasn’t opposed to an economic development advisory committee, and I am still not opposed, I have witnessed that a part time advisory committee just cannot replace a full time development officer accountable to deliver in this much needed area. Most municipalities have full time economic development officers and are moving past us in attracting new investments. In many cases they have no more to offer than we do as a municipality, but they have someone who’s sole responsibility is to bring in new investment while retaining what’s already there. Therefore, I believe members of council can make the tough decision of reinstating this position, and/or the committee, or some semblance of a job that can focus on economic development. As a member of council, I believe the mayor’s role goes further. As mayor, outside of council, I have been involved in many meetings related to economic development and attracting new businesses. I have witnessed first hand the need for support in this area, as the CAO has other responsibilities as well. The atmosphere in the town is much more positive than it was 4 years ago, so now is a good time to capitalize on attracting new investments.
Glenn Swinton (Candidate for Mayor)
No response provided.
Richard (Rick) Fryer (Candidate for Deputy Mayor)
Many many residence and visitors know us, Amherstburg as a Tourism magnet. This helps us secure new investment in our Community as new visitors bring with them new ideas and new investment. Forward thinking individuals new and old residence know our tax base needs to diversify. I was of only 2 members of Council to not vote for the deferral of Wendy’s for a few simple reasons. We need jobs !!!
We need to increase our commercial tax base !!!
Most of all we need to stop continuouly ask you the ratepayers for tax increases. I believe we are coming out of the negativity surrounding our Town and need to support one another. I am happy to say the past 4 years have been somewhat of a RECOVERY and I would be extremely happy to be apart of the REVIVAL if given the honour to represent you the ratepayers. I believe and will strive to bring Amherstburg back to the days when families could work here and not have to leave our community. I have always put you the ratepayer first and will continue to do the same if given the chance to represent you for the next 4 years as your Deputy Mayor
Sincerely
Elect
Rick Fryer
Deputy Mayor
519-996-6987
Leo Meloche (Candidate for Deputy Mayor)
Economic development encompasses a broad range of activities that generate positive growth in an economy. Nothing should be dismissed.
Small companies have become large corporations through success.
An attitude that we are there to assist and guide perspective business ventures through our myriad of regulations and bylaws is the first step. Make it easy to set up and do business in our Community.
As for promoting economic development, Town Council has to create conditions that make it attractive to invest in our Community. An example is the issue of growth. More people will feel a greater demand for goods and services which will make it attractive for business investment in the community. More business investment equals more jobs. More jobs put more money into the economy.
Diane Pouget (Candidate for Deputy Mayor)
No response provided.
Bob Rozankovic (Candidate for Deputy Mayor)
Positivity in the media and constantly sending a message that we are “open for business” is the starting and most critical point in promoting economic development.
From there we must provide direction to administration that economic development and attracting new businesses is a critical task. With every community in North America looking to attract business, the competition is fierce. Administration needs to provide a blueprint for what they feel their course of action will be and thru consultation with council a definitive plan needs to be formulated. Once the plan is complete and agreed to, council needs to ensure administration has the resources available. Resources may include a dedicated EcDev Officer, funding to attend Economic Development conferences, constant contact with the provincial government to ensure we see all opportunities that may become available.
Frank Cleminson (Candidate for Councillor)
No response provided.
Peter Courtney (Candidate for Councillor)
No response provided.
Pauline Gemmell (Candidate for Councillor)
No response provided.
Libby (Elizabeth) Keenan (Candidate for Councillor)
I feel the Town Council can have enormous influence in promoting economic development and attracting new business initiatives to our community. Amherstburg is blessed with a large pool of business talent. I feel Council should not hesitate to work closely with and glean ideas and input from members of the Chamber of Commerce and other leaders and Managers of successful businesses in Town who are well acquainted with the challenges we face in this regard. I would suggest inviting guest speakers from the community to present their thoughts to Council on ideas they feel could help to grow our “Brand”. It is my understanding that a new website being designed by cinnamontoast.ca will assist us in this regard by giving a more polished and up to date online presence for the Town. I would like to see Council implement a number of incentives aimed at drawing more business to the area whether that be via a streamlined system for opening a business here, possibly tax initiatives for a given startup period. I hope to see the sign bylaw issue simplified and settled as soon as possible since anyone wishing to open a business here will have plenty on their mind without being unduly burdened by red tape. This week I was fortunate to meet a gentleman who lives in Amherstburg but works at the Detroit Medical Centre in a sales position. He expressed great concern that extremely few people knew anything at all or even of the existence of Amherstburg although most could relate to the mentioning of Boblo Island. I feel it would be extremely beneficial for the Town of Amherstburg to have a travelling “sales” representative if you will ( as most corporations do) to call on Travel agencies, Tour providers, Seniors Centres, Chambers of Commerce and the Better Business Bureaus of town and Cities throughout Michigan, Ohio and other parts of Ontario as well presenting the various amenities and opportunities in Business, Tourism and Industry that Amherstburg has to offer. This of course would represent a cost to the Town but I believe one that would pay strong dividends to all sectors of the community. I have stated before and will again that I cannot stress enough how strongly I feel a mid range franchise Hotel would add to our potential for growth in all areas of Business, Industry, overnight Tourism packages etc. truly, I believe the scope of how we can assist in the economic development of the Town of Amherstburg will be limited only by the scope of our collective imaginations, both Council and residents engaged in a partnership for growth. Libby Keenan
Jason Lavigne (Candidate for Councillor)
No response provided.
Lena Lazanja (Candidate for Councillor)
Often residents have only a vague notion of the real definition of economic development. They may think it means any type of construction, new business openings, or granting of financial incentives to businesses. Some folks talk about job creation as well. A much more precise and correct definition of economic development is the cultivation of activities that create a net gain of money into the community. This positive money flow is called an economic base, and it derives from the production of goods and services in excess of local consumption needs for that product, service, or activity.
As the past General Manager of the Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce, I have personally worked alongside many of our local business owners to help promote their needs within the community, and to assist in providing a leadership forum for the advancement of economic vitality in Amherstburg. Though the sustainability of our established businesses is imperative, we need to think bigger and long-term, if we are to become a sustainable economic centerpiece in this region. We need to re-focus our energies on; the planning/recruitment process (resurrecting our Economic Development Committee would be a good start), promotion/marketing (underway with our re-branding initiative), and providing assistance/incentives with entrepreneurial mentoring (Chamber or BIA working together with Council/Town administration), as critical aspects for new business initiatives and industry/commercial expansion. Hand in hand with such a strategy, would be a re-evaluation of basic communication and transportation infrastructure, which are essential to economic growth and commercial expansion (as we are witnessing in surrounding municipalities, like Windsor and Leamington).
Unfortunately, the potential expansion provided by a new hotel or fast food restaurant, isn’t enough. Our future economic goals need to look at the long-term and actively seek out different avenues for potential investment and employment opportunities. Unfortunately, focusing on education directions and outcomes, also isn’t enough. Economic development requires balance: increased education requires complementary efforts to support a sophisticated economy that will provide jobs. Focusing on education without supporting the development of industry creates a brain drain as skilled labor migrates to opportunity.
As unfortunate, is our chief designation as a seasonal tourist town. Though our tourism draw is wonderful (during the summer months, mainly) and our town beautification has enticed new residents (and the resulting explosion in residential development), it is not/should not be the paramount focus of our development efforts, which I fear has been the case for too many years. To concentrate economic development efforts based solely on this designation is limiting and does not allow for diverse industrial interests and trade initiatives to find room at the table.
While business aims to maximize profit or shareholder value, our municipal government is the vehicle for accomplishing the common good. Our government(s) is the only entity that has the mandate to promote the well-being and prosperity of the municipality and the economic clout to keep the economy on course. The difficulty in advancing the public interest is to find balance that scaffolds economic transactions while not over regulating, and provides support and incentives without discouraging initiative. This balance needs to be nurtured by a team of economic development professionals (resurrect some form of an EDC, for starters) and a collaborative effort between the town administration/staff, elected officials, Chamber/BIA, and invested residents, is the fundamental starting point to seeing a sustainable and viable economic development plan put into action. If I have not made it to your door as of yet, and you would like to discuss more of my ideas & examples regarding Amherstburg’s economic development, please contact me at Lazanja4aburg@gmail.com to arrange, find me on Facebook www.facebook.com/bethechangetogether/ OR follow me on Twitter @LenaMLazanja AND please feel free to visit my website www.bethechangetogether.ca #bethechangetogether
Donald McArthur (Candidate for Councillor)
We need to actively market ourselves as a place that welcomes commercial and industrial investment. We need to ensure we have the tools required to woo potential investors and help existing businesses expand and thrive.
Communities across Ontario, including Windsor and other Essex County municipalities, are all competing for the same investment dollar. We need to set ourselves apart and vigorously promote ourselves and our strategic advantages.
I support the creation of a town position focused on economic development and I also support re-establishing a volunteer economic development committee comprised of residents with varied skills and experience. Other communities have economic development officers and we need to promote this town as a place to invest and also highlight the success stories of those who have already invested.
Amherstburg can look to other municipalities that offer incentives to attract development and boost job creation. Windsor’s downtown improvement plan, for example, spurred nine developments worth some $60 million. A city committee just recommended the plan’s boundaries be expanded to accommodate another $45-million, 147-unit apartment building on land that’s been vacant for nearly three decades.
We could craft incentive packages to boost tourism, attract a hotel, increase residential density in key areas, create a thriving arts scene or even a tech hub – creating jobs for the next generation of worker who cares about quality of life and can commute via a keyboard. I would support the creation of a small fund dedicated to helping young Amherstburg entrepreneurs get their start in the tech field.
We already have several small and medium manufacturers in town. UK alcohol giant Diageo is reportedly in talks to invest in the Canadian cannabis space. Just imagine the possibilities if it inks a deal with Aphria. We have 795 acres designated heavy and light industrial in the Howard Avenue/Smith Industrial area. The former General Chemical plant has been reclaimed and is serviced and ready for re-development.
The town has to spread the word about these opportunities and inform potential investors of our strategic advantages, including our proximity to the border, our highly-skilled workforce, our quality rail and marine transportation linkages and the fact that council, if the jobs are there and the investment fits with town priorities, has the power to waive development charges for industrial and commercial developments.
It won’t be easy and we’re going to have to hustle. The key is marketing ourselves not only as a smart and welcoming place to do business but also a progressive municipality with a rich history and boundless potential, where workers and families can buy affordable homes and enjoy first class amenities.
John Menna (Candidate for Councillor)
No response provided.
Gregory Moore (Candidate for Councillor)
As I have stated in the past, taxpayers and potential taxpayers need to be treated with the absolute most respect.
I believe customer service should be the focus of everyone in every part of town administration. The difference between someone choosing to pay taxes here or a différent municipality is minimal and could hinge on a simple word or a smile.
This latest Wendys debacle is a example of what happens when focus is elswhere.
I also think we need to compell business and residents to want to live and work here. How can we do this? Im glad you asked. Regulation, policy, bylaws and tax rates need to be adjusted to accomodate both.
So lets first talk briefly about tax rates. Our tax rates have creeped up over thé years, wecare now higher than surrounding comparable communities by a good amount . The only true comparables locally are Essex and Kingsville, we are higher than both.
Example
Amherstburg property tax rate.01626515
Kingsville property tax rate. 01327237
Example 400 000 home(modest by todays market)
Amherstburg 400 000 x 01626516=6506.06
Kingsville. 400 000 x 01327237=5089.48
This is a big difference folks.
Next we can talk about bylaws, regulation and policy that may and also have in the past hindered business. Such as the recent signage policy. Im also all for our heritage designs concerning new builds, but I also believe it makes sense for a new business to be asked to build according to our heritage construction instead of requiring this to be a prerequisite. Am I advocating for a free for all? Absoulutely not. What I am saying is lets be open for business.
Lets streamline business applications,help with all approvals etc. and create the environment of partnership with business, instead of another taxpayer.
Lastly we can also look at tax breaks and some relief concerning a portion or all of the building permit costs for new construction/new business. It works.
The amount of residual revenue gained from this spurred growth will more than pay for any lost revenues up front.
This is a good start….Lets do Moore
Michael Prue (Candidate for Councillor)
Promote Economic Development and attract New Business
In my view this is the key issue in this election.
Prior to this present Council there was a long period when the finances of Amherstburg were not adequately controlled. Insufficient resources were put to finding a secure tax base anchored by a strong industrial/commercial/ institutional sector.
As opportunity receded the once proud industrial heritage went too. The tax base relied more and more on property owners and the taxes which were paid for residential properties. Recent studies have shown that our debt servicing costs at 11.3% remain well above the median in Essex County (5.2%).
In order to turn this around, we must be serious in our efforts to promote economic development and new business opportunities. I believe to be successful in this we need to do the following:
- Speed up the process of rejuvenating our former industrial areas to make the lands attractive for commerce
- Rezone these lands to allow for a broad range of light industrial, commercial and institutional use
- Hire a full time accredited economic development officer to market our Town and to shepherd applications through the planning process
- Recognize our tremendous historical and heritage assets and develop a Conference Centre at Belle Vue, retail opportunities in the core and new hotels to accommodate both an expanding tourist market and business opportunities
Council must play a leading role in bringing this about and therefore should commit itself to finding the revenue to recruit a qualified economic development officer as a first priority – before other staffing is considered. Council must also work to find benefactors to finish the restoration of Belle Vue lands and to declare its intent to be a world class Conference Centre. It would be a first for Essex County. Council must be flexible in considering zoning options to support new start-ups and emerging industries.
If we can do all that, there will be money enough to build a great infrastructure , create jobs and reduce our reliance on residential taxes. I followed this path as Mayor of East York and I know it can be done in Amherstburg too!
Marc Renaud (Candidate for Councillor)
Councillors can promote that Amherstburg is open for business in the media, including social media, and at the council table. For example, a business friendly housing development fee deferral would show that we are flexible and willing to find solutions , or a business improvement area that gives tax incentives to attract new businesses.
We are in competition with many other small communities. We must do what we can to be competitive and appear attractive to industry.
Patricia Simone (Candidate for Councillor)
Council needs to be ambassadors for the Town and work with the Windsor Essex Economic Development office to attract new business to the area. We need to promote Amherstburg as a great place to do business. We need to establish incentives to attract the businesses to Amherstburg.
We need to engage stakeholders in the community. Stakeholders can assist council in pointing out Amherstburg’s positive assets in order to promote it. We also need to know the town’s negative attributes in order to fix or change the issue for the future. As part of my platform, which can be viewed at simone4aburg.ca, I highlight the need for committee consultation. We need to re-establish the Economic Development Committee to assist in gathering the information and also support Council by being ambassadors for Amherstburg.
Ron Sutherland (Candidate for Councillor)
Chose not to participate.
Lori Wightman (Candidate for Councillor)
I think members of council have an integral role in promoting economic development and attracting new businesses to our community. Council is in the perfect position to know both the inner workings of administration and the views of the residents and should use that knowledge to be able to recognize opportunities that would be a good fit for our town. Council members should be informed enough about policies, programs and initiatives that they are able to bring feasible ideas to council that would promote our municipality in ways that benefit us all in the long run.
Council members are ambassadors for this town, they represent not only the residents but they also represent the town to the greater public, to our neighbouring municipalities, to business owners and investors. What we say and how we portray the town in our comments and our actions is how we inform others as to our worth. We should always be promoting our best image in a positive and productive way that will then attract the development and business opportunities we need to be a vital and attractive town.
I’m back…..I hope this has been informative to all of my readers. I hope it gives you a bit of insight into who the people are who are looking to represent us. Please note, I will send the candidates two more of your questions and publish their answers next weekend.
Share this: shares are appreciated!
amherstburg2 