Why: Kids

The biggest reason for my decision to run for City Council is, of course, my children. This is the city I grew up in, and the city I choose for my kids. How better to insure a safe and successful future for them than to be part of City Council.

Grande Prairie has changed a lot since I was a kid. Often when a city goes through rapid growth the feeling of community becomes lost. This is something that I believe we need to get back. One way that I believe we can accomplish this is through the use of Area Redevelopment Plans. Last year we saw the South Montrose/VLA neighbourhood come together to create a common vision for their area. The city helps to initiate and facilitate the process but the work is largely done by the residents. It instills a sense of pride and ownership beyond one's own lawn. A great start to a safer more successful city!

One phrase that I'm sure we have all heard is "there's nothing to do". It is especially important that we make sure our kids have a wide variety of things to do. We need to take a good look at what it is like to be a teenager in this city. If there truly is a lack of activities we need to provide more. If it is a matter of perception we need to change it. One thing that I have heard mentioned recently is having a large outdoor rink surface. If the City could partner with the local speed skating club and even the roller derby association (who could use the arena in the summer), it could be done for a very small price tag. Opportunities like this are abundant in our city, we simply need to run with them.

Grande Prairie is a changing city, lets ensure it is a positive change!