Editor's Note: We asked Tay Township 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 Ward 3 councillor Barry Norris.
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?
Firstly, being proud to represent the residents again for the municipality. As a council, we have been able to accomplished numerous undertakings to name a few like: 1.) Enhancing our road systems 2.) An organization review implementing a new organizational structure for staff and council 3.) Implementing an overhaul of our water system to address taste and odour 4.) Conducting a strategic plan for the municipality 5.) Participation in the governance review and reviewing services with our neighbouring municipalities. 5.) Controlling taxation in an affordable manner.
Question 2. What is your biggest disappointment as it relates to a council decision/direction or issue?
I have no “disappointments” on council decisions, as long as each member brings forth arguments for or against and render their decision in the best interest for the municipality.
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?
There is no question this pandemic has brought considerable challenges to each and every one of us.
Firstly, on behalf of our residents we can’t thank those individuals enough that continue to ensure our healthcare, our police, our first responders, our pharmacies, our grocery stores, our service delivery people and by all means our own staff in keeping us functional.
Staff continue to operate the municipality to a high standard like ensuring quality water still runs through the tap, Sewage treatment, our roads department for ensuring our roads are safe to travel for those that are required to provide a service and the rest of staff for continuing the day-to-day operations of the municipality.
I can only urge each and every one of us to continue to listen to our healthcare experts while we all battle through this.
Question 4. Access to Georgian Bay remains a concern for many. Do you feel council needs to address this issue? If so, how?
The municipality is very diverse in accessing the bay. We are fortunate that residents who purchase waterfront property have access, that we have a number of public access points to the bay and we have numerous marinas throughout the municipality, which offer residents and visitors alike the opportunity to enjoy the bay by boating.
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?
I believe council and staff are very transparent in how we conduct the business for the municipality.
We continue to look at the best options available to get advice out to the residents, we have changed our council structure from 'Committee of the Whole' to the Committee Structure of Corporate Services, Operational Service and Protection & Development Service which has allowed us to have more deputations.
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 see a number of decisions coming before council over the next two years in no particular order: 1.) Ensuring our new staffing and council structure is complete and fully functional. 2.) Council composition, taking us forward for the upcoming years. 3.) Continuing with enhancing our road program and ensuring that the department has the required tools to facilitate its need. 4.) The best scenario on the upgrade for the Victoria Harbour wastewater plant and implement it. 5.) Fostering development whether small or large to enrich this municipality. 6.) A Road Safety program to better educate everyone’s driving habits. 7.) Adapting planning to the needs and wants of the residents through a new Official Plan. 8.) Looking at the future of the municipality should the Provincial Regional Review be released by the province.
Question 7: Lastly, do you intend to seek re-election? Why or why not?
I haven’t given it much attention at this point, as dealing with the issues presently is what I’m focused on. A lot can happen in two years so as we get closer I will decide.
