Beyond land-use bylaws, I learned so much from the citizens of Strathmore while petitioning. During that two-month period I spoke with many people who conveyed how they feel about the services the town delivers and where things could be improved.

 

The residents of Strathmore spoke to me  of service delivery improvements needed for snow removal up side streets and alleyway maintenance. Infrastructure concerns were also raised regarding overdue sidewalk repairs. Residents offered road improvement ideas  such as using traffic circles in place of traffic lights. My dialogue with residents opened my eyes (and ears) on many topics, but one topic which was raised more than any other was affordability.

 

Housing affordability, recreation program affordability, and a reduction in property taxes were all welcome outcomes raised by citizens. Running a town costs money, nothing is free; regardless of this fact, the town can and should act in a fiscally responsible manner at every opportunity.

I spoke at the November 19th Council meeting about the need of relieving some of the tax burden for residents. At the time,  council was eyeing a 4.5 percent increase in taxes due to the proposed budget items. Although they did shave the percentage down to 3.7 percent, more could have been done.  As an example, a new $300K water circulation system capital project was green lit for the splash park at Kinsmen and the town's Capital reserve was increased at a yearly percentage higher than last year's.

 

There are many levels of government, but there is only one taxpayer. If elected I will always ensure your tax dollars are spent sparingly and effectively.

 

Some expenses must be incurred and should be expanded - snow removal, maintenance of streets and sidewalks; others, just don’t make sense especially when residents are in need of relief.