GROW WISELY

• “Politics is the art of the possible.” Let’s focus on what we can control.
• Focus mandated density on the parts of town that are built for it, not in established neighbourhoods.
• Make sure new developments and structures are built to meet future needs in a changing climate.
• It is the density of by-laws that ruins small towns and that is in our control. Leave big-city “best practices” in the big cities and let’s maintain our heritage and way of life. The character of small towns is determined by how we respond to growth.

BE RESPONSIBLE  

•  We may not always agree, but by treating fellow councillors and staff with respect, listening to different perspectives, and working together, we can improve and preserve the community we share.
• I believe councillors are elected to be accountable to their neighbours and respectful of our heritage, rather than simply to advance their own predetermined preferences.
• We can’t afford needless legal fees and expensive Integrity Commissioner reports.
• We can foster a culture of respect for the hard work and sacrifice behind every tax dollar. We should always be working towards finding efficiencies.
•  I'm not convinced that amalgamation improves services or reduces taxes.
• I believe that residents know best about the needs of their neighbourhoods. Let’s not build or upgrade park infrastructure without incorporating this feedback first.
•  Let’s encourage and support fundraising efforts and community volunteers.
•  Removing the water levy might be “modern” but it isn’t equitable or fair.
• Let’s see council work together better before we consider a salary increase.

BE A BLESSING

•  “Good things are easily destroyed, but not easily created.” I am full of gratitude for the sacrifices previous generations made to provide us with so much abundance. 
• Taxes are high but mostly because of our Regional levy and Federal policies. We won't gain by cutting budgets on programs that are working, such as the library or the museum etc.
•  Let’s give back through carefully budgeting for maintaining and restoring our community resources in a responsible and sustainable way. 
• Let’s have shovel ready projects ready for provincial and federal grants. We can rollback council salary increases, stop the infighting that leads to Integrity Commissioner reports, stop needless rebrands and consultation reports, and put our money into rebuilding public projects that last for generations. 
• Let's avoid the despair that is common in modern politics. We can't do everything, but let's do what we can together because Grimsby is what we make it.