Speeches

Why am I running as a Councillor.

Dear citizen, while I am presently running for Councillor at Large because I believe in our potential as a city, I cannot help but wonder about the great many opportunity that we have had over the years. While some of these opportunities, through the effort of many dedicated Council members and individuals across the city, are starting to be materialized, others are yet to be developed to their true potential.

As a result of some of these missed opportunities, many of our citizens have left for greener pastures. This trend has picked up speed with the recent closures and layoffs in forestry, mining and manufacturing operations. Not all want to go. Many would rather remain close to their families but cannot. Thunder Bay and region has and continues to lose its trained workforce. This exodus has the potential to undermine our region's economic viability and future prosperity.

The speeches below have been included here for your review and reflection as they provide a contextual perspective on many of the issues that I have raised over the years both inside and outside of politics. These issues have not disappeared but are still with us. Some of them of a greater urgency than ever.

How can I help?

I believe in this great city of ours. I also believe that:

-  my work in all facets of the industries that formed the backbone of our economy
-  my interaction  with all levels of government during and after my term on Council
-  the various marketing, tourism, and economic development projects I have worked on in the city and region
-  my volunteer work with many charitable, Not-for-Profit, community and social organization
-  my ability to get results by working in cooperation with others, by looking for win-win solutions, and
-  an unwavering dedication to Thunder Bay's future prosperity

can help the Mayor and Council develop winning strategies to turn our economy around, help beautify our city, develop our waterfront, and maintain a good standard of living and quality of life for our families.

I respectfully ask for your support to represent YOU as Councillor at Large on November 13, 2006