Platform Development

Campaigning should be more about listening than talking.

While voters deserve to know where the candidates stand on issues, it's just as important for candidates to hear from residents about what matters most to them. The days leading up to this election, therefore, are as much about hearing concerns as they are about making promises.

That said, voters deserve to know what candidates believe are priorities for the next four years in District 2 and the county as a whole.

This section represents a living document. As more conversations with voters take place, a more fulsome platform develops.  

It is no secret that Nova Scotians are facing an affordability crisis. For most Richmond County residents, housing represents the lion's share of their financial obligations. Further, the lack of affordable, deeply affordable, and market housing, particularly in the rental market, affects all of us.  A lack of housing stock drives up prices and slows growth. Limited housing options are particularly challenging for seniors, those living on fixed incomes, and families in crisis.

It is essential that council approach affordability and housing with a sense of urgency. Anticipating how we can support developers and not-for-profit organizations looking to leverage federal and provincial dollars, and ensuring land use by-laws do not stand in the way of housing, will be key for the next council.  

Richmond County is on the cusp of tremendous opportunity in traditional areas of the economy like fishing, tourism, forestry, and manufacturing, as well as new and expanded areas in wind and green energy. Council must continue to look for ways to balance that much-needed growth while at the same time addressing residents' questions and concerns.  Ongoing communication with residents and frank discussions with industry will help grow Richmond County in ways that benefit everyone.

We will not always agree.  The role of municipal councillor, though, is to ensure every resident feels they can voice their concerns and feel heard, even if they don't get the answer they are hoping for. Being accessible and accountable will be key to effective representation.