by Lori Paras
THUNDER BAY – POLITICS 2.0 – Put quite simply, I am running because I love and I’m passionate about Thunder Bay. I would like to see our city be more focused on serving the real needs of the people who live here and do business. I’m also concerned that many socio-economic decisions are being made without real public discussion and input. I know many people in our community share these perspectives.
I also believe that over many years, the balance of power has shifted from the elected members to city administration. This is the result of a complacent council, repeatedly re-elected, that has allowed the administration to take a firm hold on how the city is being run without input from its elected officials.
It’s time for a change. It’s time for a council committed to working towards a more equitable partnership between your elected representatives and your city’s administration. It’s time for cooperation between all stakeholders.
Thunder Bay is your city. I will listen to you and put the decision making back into your hands.
As an established entrepreneur in Thunder Bay, I can bring fresh energy into the public service. The experience and knowledge that I have acquired in running a business translate directly into the role and responsibilities of a Councillor at Large. Networking and building relations have also been a big part of my journey and it will come in handy as I engage with the community to listen and learn.
My commitments to the people of Thunder Bay are as follows:
* End the spending of tax dollars on projects that we cannot afford
* Advocate on your behalf for a decrease in your city water bill
* Fight to end the continuous increase to commercial and residential taxes
* Ensure that we adhere to the governance in the decision-making process
* Establishing relations with the Indigenous community to foster reconciliation
I believe that I have the background and experience to be an effective Councillor at Large and bring a new perspective to ensure that priorities align with community needs.
If elected, I will do my best to be fair, listen to all views and try to uphold the communities interests through your voice.
