Q: What do you see as the main issue in Agassiz and how do you propose Council can address it?
A: I feel the main issue in Agassiz is the retention and promoting of the business sector in town.
This is not easy but the by laws and red tape we have make it so very difficult to start a business. That's why we are known in neighbouring areas as the most difficult community to start a business in. Being financially responsible is essential. Lets be business friendly and meet them through out the year and address their concerns. We need to get every ones trust back with yearly town hall meetings.
Q: The Municipality needs to collect taxes to provide sufficient services to all of its members. Explain the benefits or pitfalls in providing tax breaks to businesses or farms as you understand it.
A: Farmers do pay the same taxes on their residential homes as town residences. But to get the business sector moving forward we do need incentives. By introducing a 5 year tax incentive for new business. Cut out the red tape and change some of our by laws to be more business friendly for both existing and new business. The benefits would be promotion of our business sector, but remember this loss of revenue must be made up by all of us. (even by a freeze on council and executive staff wages)
As a business owner in town, I really FEEL for the need of council and staff to be friendly, understanding and working with all of our businesses.
Q: While the community elects the Mayor and Councillors, the District staff does the day-to-day work of running operations. If elected, how do you plan to foster relationships within the workplace to keep the District running smoothly?
A: Adopt a management style that encourages trust and respect of our employees. Council members need to continue to go to their portfolios and be aware of what is going on listening to staff and relate recommendations to administration. Staff meetings with council and open talks are very important.
Council has guidelines, be aware of what is going on and up to date but don't interfere. Having meetings with all of staff through out the year, will make this community one we will all be proud of. Lets work together and make Agassiz a friendly community town.