Why did you decide to run for council?
City Council requires a new look, a new voice. I will bring a fresh perspective to council from the view of a small business entrepreneur. I know how hard it is to earn a dollar. I will help council work for the common good of the community. I do not represent the agenda of an organization. I will read the meeting materials and be prepared for meetings. I know how to work on a team and how to compromise. I will add a level of professionalism and decorum to council, while supporting staff as they move projects forward in a positive manner.
What innovative projects would enhance life in your community?
North Bay will be replacing a single ice surface arena to a 2 pad ice surface arena. This is the opportune time to create a project not just for citizens that like to play on ice, but to build a multi generational, multipurpose complex: be it with a child care service that allows seniors to mingle and help; to other activities like card games, board games, craft and hobbies, meeting rooms, or educational seminars to help the youth get into the job market. A building that will allow the citizens of this city to stay healthy, from a physical, social and emotional perspective. A building that keeps bodies active by offering a walking/running surface for the winter months and can also be used year round for residents with mobility issues. We have experts in our community (agencies) that know what needs are lacking for their clients - let's get their input in the creation of such a complex. We could also partner with a not for profit organization that has the expertise and allow them to manage the programs. The hub would also inject sport tourism money into the local economy
What innovative projects would enhance life in your community?
North Bay will be replacing an single ice surface arena to a two-pad ice surface arena. This is the opportune time to create a project not just for citizens that like to play on ice, but to build a multi generational, multipurpose complex: be it with a child care service that allows seniors to mingle and help, or to participate in other activities like card games, board games, craft and hobbies, meeting rooms, educational seminars to help the youth get into the job market. A building that will allow the citizens of this city to stay healthy from a physical, social and emotional perspective. A building that keeps bodies active by offering a walking/running surface for the winter months and can also be used year round for residents with mobility issues. We have experts in our community (agencies) that know what needs are lacking for their clients so lets get their input in the creation of such a complex. We could also partner with a not for profit organization that has the expertise and allow them to manage the programs. The hub would also inject sport tourism money into the local economy.
If you received a $1 million grant to use for your city any way you wanted, what would you do with it?
The monies would go to help the city and Rotary club, enhance the splash pad watermark project. I would stipulate that the project becomes a year round attraction by adding a skating trail for all to enjoy.
What do you think are the greatest challenges your city faces?
As councilor of the city of North Bay, it is important to help and encourage the growth (whenever possible) of our economic and population base. The growth can happen either by enticing, helping, the existing industries to expand or to solicit others to relocate to our city. We can also attract new residents by making North Bay one of the healthiest (social, physical, emotional) cities in Canada.
Other than the official ways of communicating (minutes, municipal notes), how else will you reach out to your constituents to involve them in the decision making process?
I will organize informal town hall meetings to ask citizens feedback on certain topics. Residents can also communicate with me via my city email account or Facebook.
What is your favourite thing to do in your city?
I enjoy numerous North Bay activities but for the past few years I've enjoyed raising funds for the local Y.M.C.A . while swimming the contour of Trout Lake with a group of avid swimmers. We are so lucky to have two pristine lakes in our town.
What do you cherish most about your community?
While I truly enjoy the landscape and the beautiful lakes, I would have to say my favorite thing about North Bay is the strength of the community and the ability to show support when needed. North Bay is a generous, caring community.
Where can people find you?
vote4jo.com, jo@vote4jo.com
Facebook and Twitter - vote4jo2018
