Editor's Note: We asked Penetanguishene 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 some insight from those who did. Today, we hear from Penetanguishene councillor George Vadeboncoeur.
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?
Increased investments in road and sidewalk maintenance, while keeping tax increases to a minimum, mindful of Penetanguishene's high tax rate in comparison to other municipalities, and second, that Council, while working together, established priorities for the next few years.
Question 2. What is your biggest disappointment as it relates to a council decision/direction or issue?
I do not have any disappointments as it relates to Council decisions. I am happy with Council's direction on issues.
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 has been to manage the risk of illness while still providing services to Penetanguishene taxpayers. The Town has taken a low risk approach and I have tried to bring a balanced and practical approach to the discussion, based on advice from the province and the SMDHU and how other essential services are responding.
Question 4. What is your vision for the town's waterfront? Or are you happy with the way things are now?
The Rotary Champlain Wendat Park is a great asset for the Town. I'd like to see the Curling Club relocated and a new restaurant established overlooking the bay.
I'd like to see a new mixed-use development take place on the former Ojibway Landing site, with lots of open space and trails within the development that the public can use. I think the Town Dock area needs a refresh. It has great potential. I'm really interested in learning about the ideas the public may have about the dock area as part of the upcoming public engagement process.
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?
Normally, when there aren't pandemic restrictions I'm around Town on weekends and talk to people through my various activities. I walk my two dogs around the neighbourhood and stop to talk to people. Through these conversations I learn what is important to them. During the Hockey and Ball Hockey seasons I'm at the arena a few evenings per week talking to people when I'm not refereeing. I also make a point to shop and dine locally as often as I can and talk to people when I'm in their shops. I respond to e-mails and texts as quickly as I can. I try to ask questions that I think the average person would like to know the answers to so that I can make informed decisions. One can always do better.
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?
With the purchase of the former PSS property, taking all the public input and making decisions on the future of the property will be a challenge. It has great potential. That combined with the recreation needs study looking at the future of the existing arena and curling club, make it an exciting time.
In addition, to the challenges I mentioned, my priorities include increasing investments in repairing the Town's roads and sidewalks, developing a new plan for the Town Dock area, working with the County to bring affordable rental housing to Penetanguishene, and managing the Town's finances in an appropriate manner so that tax rate increases are kept to a minimum and the Town's debt level is manageable.
Question 7: Lastly, do you intend to seek re-election? Why or why not?
I have not decided yet. I am enjoying the experience, working with my colleagues on Council and the staff leadership team. I'll think about it mid-2022, talk to my family, and make a decision then. It is a four-year commitment and I want to make sure that I can continue to serve.
