What is the biggest problem facing the district you are running in?
The biggest problem facing my district is uncertain job security.
Forestry and fishing are the major employers in my district. Both have suffered through a rough economy, low prices, and volatile foreign markets, and these have all taken a toll on our families in the form of stress and uncertainty.
What will you do to address these issues?
Regarding the tax shortfall, I'm certain that increased property taxes are not the answer. Instead the solution is simple - we as elected representatives, must put in place a solid plan to grow the tax base.
My plan will enlist government and the private sector in growing our tax base over the next ten years and beyond, and will not cost taxpayers a single cent in the end.
As for job security, the role of your elected representatives is to create new jobs - and my plan is to create jobs that rely on selling services as well as products. These service jobs will multiply over the coming decades; it's time to leave the past behind and focus on the present and future.
To learn the specifics of my plan and ideas for tax revenue and job creation, pleas attend my "Meet the Candidate" public meetings, which I'm hosting in each of the three polling stations in my district. Time and locations will be mailed to each District 6 household.
Where and/or in what field do you work?
I started my own real estate business when I was 19 years old. In accordance with my belief in providing "one stop shopping", I grew the business so that it wound up providing diverse services - general contracting services, insurance, property management, subdivision planning and so on. Fifty years later, my company is still going strong.
I'm also the contact broker for one of the largest real estate franchises on the South Shore. I'm honoured that in February, the Nova Scotia Real Estate Commission recognized my dedication and hard work with a ceremony marking my 40th year as a licenced real estate broker.
What is something you consider unique about yourself?
Absolutely nothing, except to say that each and every one of use is unique in our own way.
I don't pretend to be an expert or a know-it-all, but I do know this - in life, what you receive is in direct proportion with what you give. I've been blessed to have received a lot from Queens County over the years, and I've always given back as best I could. On Oct. 20, I hope you'll allow me to give back to Queens County once more, as your elected representative.
