Another incumbent, this time Mark King has thrown his hat in the ring for council.
He says his short time on council has been an “education”.
“There are things that can and should be done differently and, if elected, I will strive to make those changes and I will always be responsible to the voters,” he stated in a news release.
King says he has a number of issues to address in the next term of council but there are four he is most passionate about.
NO TAX INCREASE
“I will not support a tax increase for either residential or business ratepayers. There is no doubt that operating costs escalate but I believe there are efficiencies that can be found to offset the increased costs. This does not mean reductions in staffing, it means doing things smarter.”
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT HAS FAILED AND JOBS ARE NEEDED
“Successful job creation depends on economic development and I believe we have failed at that. There are human resources within our city who are capable and willing to assist in the growth of this city. I propose the establishment of an adhoc advisory committee comprised of business leaders and citizens who will volunteer their time, knowledge and connections to work with the economic development department to find creative solutions."
NORTH BAY NEEDS OVERSIGHT AT CITY HALL
“We have all borne witness to the lack of financial oversight at City Hall for projects of all sizes whether it is a $16 million dollar renovation or smaller road reconstruction. There must be accountability and transparency. I believe City Hall must apply basic business principles which have to include a system of checks and balances. We must know where the money is being spent."
CITIZENS DESERVE RESPECT
“I have been disheartened to see the disrespect and confrontational attitude towards North Bay citizens and the public sector who have attempted to communicate with the City. As a council we have to respect the opinions of our citizens, our public sector workers and businesses. More important we have to support the city employees and protect them if they choose to report inappropriate actions at any level."
King was born and raised in North Bay and is the owner of H. Freeman & Co. since 1998.
He has been a President with the North Bay and District Chamber of Commerce, and currently leads the North Bay Taxpayers Association.
