Key Issues
Affordable & Supportive Housing
Home ownership and rent affordability has been a growing concern for the City of Barrie for many years. Unfortunately, this has become a greater concern during the pandemic. Advocating for more affordable and supportive housing funding from provincial and federal levels of government and exploring innovations that reduce housing costs will be needed to ensure Barrie has affordable housing for all residents.
Safe and Effective Traffic Management
As a community that has a 400 series highway running through the middle of it and is experiencing constant growth, moving traffic efficiently and safely has been a long standing issue. It is important that Council works proactively to maintain our roads, utilize traffic calming tools in school zones and residential neighborhoods, provides adequate side walk access for pedestrians, bike lanes, and public transit. I will work to ensure our streets are safer and traffic moves effectively.
Efficient Services & Quality Facilities (Your Taxes)
The promise to keep taxes low is a promise everyone makes. Of course we will do our best to keep taxes low - nobody wants to pay more than they have to. I will make sure that our money is spent efficiently and properly, with plenty of public feedback. I think we understand that Barrie has been growing rapidly as others realize how great our city is. My goal is to match infrastructure planning and growth to that population increase in the most efficient way possible, and in a way that matches the goals of the community. Everyone should expect value for their tax dollar. One way of demonstrating this is ensuring the City provides it citizens quality facilities and efficient public services.
Stronger Local Economy
Having a diverse economy that supports a wide range of skilled and high paying jobs is important for any community. In this competitive environment Council must ensure Barrie is ready to support entrepreneurs and businesses that represent the new economy. This includes having industrial land available to support the growth of both existing and new business.
Allandale Transit Mobility Hub
In 2022 work will begin on the Allandale Transit Mobility Hub, which will replace the Downtown Terminal as the city's main transit terminal. It will be important this station, scheduled to open in 2024, is designed and integrated to be an asset to the community.