THUNDER BAY – Why am I running for City Council? Firstly, I’m running because as a small business owner I feel that the city is putting road blocks in my way when it comes to operating my business. Some of the obstacles I face are by-laws, red tape, playing phone tag with city officials. I hope to bring a common sense approach to council, an environment positive to business. Commercial taxes are too high, there are many incentives for large business but few for small. It’s difficult to plan, expand and hire new employees. I know the majority of business owners feel this way according to the C.F.I.B. survey and though communicating with many business owners.
Secondly, if elected, I believe the city need someone like me, someone with a common sense approach who relates well with the general public. I plan on representing the people of Thunder Bay, and plan on being accountable to them.
I believe most obstacles can be tackled if the citizens of Thunder Bay are involved.
I will be scheduling time for the citizens, possibly one afternoon a week. I will be a strong voice for the citizens of Thunder Bay.
First and foremost the city needs to create an environment where business can flourish, thus creating jobs to keep young talent in this community.
In this area I feel Thunder Bay is lagging behind, business is the backbone of a successful economy. We need to increase our tax base to keep our taxes at a reasonable rate.
Crime is a big issue and I plan to support all reasonable initiatives to prevent and control crime.
Lastly, we need open dialogue between council, administration and the people, especially on large capital projects. You can see the results of the closed door council sessions in the Wind Farm and Marina Park. These projects need to be managed properly, the constant use of consultants from southern Ontario isn’t cost effective.
Thunder Bay needs a New Face with New Ideas.
Norm Staal
For more information call Norm at 622-6665