Editor's Note: We asked Midland council members for their take on the first two years of their mandate as well as how they see the future unfolding. A few didn't respond, but we're delighted to offer you insights from those who did. Today, we hear from Deputy Mayor Mike Ross.
Question 1. What are you most proud of, personally as a councillor, that you/council have been able to accomplish in the first half of your mandate?
I am very proud of many things, including the hiring of key staff, the Town’s response to the COVID-19 crisis and our continued shared services with our neighbouring communities.
I am most proud and honoured that council was able to complete the construction of King Street. This project has been long overdue and is a great accomplishment to see this project come to fruition. There are still some final touch ups to come in early spring of 2021, but the new King Street looks fantastic.
Question 2. What is your biggest disappointment as it relates to a council decision/direction or issue?
The biggest disappointment for this term of council, is the same issue that has affected every resident, The Coronavirus. Unfortunately, this pandemic has stopped everything in its tracks. With that said, the leadership at town hall have done an outstanding job keeping staff and residents informed in these very difficult and challenging times.
Question 3. Nobody saw the pandemic coming. Specifically, as a councillor, what is the biggest challenge the pandemic has created and how have you tried to tackle that challenge?
The biggest challenge this pandemic has created is the loss of personal engagement and the stress to our local businesses and economy. Truly the way we can tackle the challenge of COVID-19 is to follow the guidelines laid out by Dr. Gardner and the Simcoe/Muskoka Health Unit. Wear your mask, wash your hands, and support your local Businesses now more than ever. We can get through this together.
Question 4. What is your vision for the area known as Midland Bay Landing (i.e. a full park, half a park and the balance development, mostly development)?
Midland Bay Landing will define Midland for many generations to come. I am very proud that the town has not rushed into any agreement. It is very important that Midland takes the time in order to ultimately choose the right development.
I believe the best vision for Midland Bay Landing is a mix between Recreational, retail and residential. Always ensuring a minimum of 25% to 30% stay as public space for our residents and guests to have access to the shores of Georgian Bay. I encourage all residents to visit the Midland Bay Landing website for more information.
Question 5. Are you doing enough as a council to be transparent, to encourage public input and to listen? How so? How could that be improved during the second half of your mandate?
Transparency, public input and listening are by far the most important role of any elected official. I believe Midland council does a very good job on all 3.
With that said, it has become very difficult since the COVID-19 pandemic. Without the opportunity to meet in chambers, it has made it more challenging to acquire public engagement. I’m constantly reaching out to my peers at county council to review what other municipalities are doing. Midland has done a good job considering all the hurdles. Midland needs to take every steps to make sure we are communicating with our residents.
Question 6. What is the biggest challenge council faces in the second half of its mandate (ie. Staff retirements, promised tax freeze, capacity) and what are your top priorities?
I believe the biggest challenge council faces going into the second half of our term is the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This pandemic will have lasting financial and emotional effects on our community for years to come. It will be up to council and staff to come up with new and efficient ways of doing things. The world is changing and we need to make sure Midland is changing with it.
Question 7: Lastly, do you intend to seek re-election? Why or why not?
With regards to re-election, I’d like to worry about the issues of today before making any future decisions.
