The directions were succinctly laid out by former Winnipeg mayor Glenn Murray, renowned for renewal of his city's downtown, when he visited Barrie earlier this year. He identified two very different approaches to municipal leadership: the utilitarian and the visionary. Although both want the same - lower property taxes, investment, quality services - the means are very different.
In this election Dave Aspden is the utilitarian. He believes the best way to manage the community is by tending to the basics - roads, sewers, parks, police, etc. - of the city. About the so-called 'soft services' of arts and culture, Aspden says he is not against them, but doesn't think the city should pay for them. While this approach may save money in the short term, it doesn't speak to the future.
Three years ago, our choice for mayor was not Rob Hamilton. We are as surprised as many others that Hamilton has developed into the visionary of Murray's leadership model. Hamilton sees Barrie as more than what it is, he sees it as what it could be. The path to that vision is difficult, but we believe it's the road Barrie must be on. That's why we are endorsing Hamilton in his re-election bid.
Barrie is at a crossroad. Two substantial, and connected, initiatives which will shape the future of this city have been launched during Hamilton's first term. The cultural master plan and the Downtown Commercial Master Plan will offer long-term, substantial benefits for Barrie, making the city a more attractive place in which to invest and live.
One such example is doctor recruitment. Doctors are being wooed by communities across the land. Quality of life is a tangible enticement to physicians looking to set up shop.
The same can be said of business investment. High-end investors consider quality of life for their employees when looking to invest in a community.
Barrie is not a bedroom community of the type which exists in the GTA. It's a regional centre developing along the lines of Kitchener, London, Kingston, and other 'stand-alone' cities in Ontario. This city needs a vision for the future, not simply a plan to maintain the present. Although we appreciate Aspden's focus on the basics, a city like Barrie needs a bigger vision of the type being articulated by Hamilton.
Kevin Harrod is to be thanked for his participation, but this has always been a two-man race.
In regards to candidates for council, we hope to see more of a balance between community and business needs, one that may balance Hamilton's personality. As a businessman used to getting goals met quickly, Hamilton has demonstrated a degree of frustration with the slowness of the political process.
An oft-heard criticism of the current council is that it speaks with one voice, and that is the voice of business. Important as it is, a community is more than business, so look for ward candidates who will provide this balance.
For a complete list of candidates, election news and discussion forums, go to www.simcoe.com and follow the 'Municipal Election 06' link. One more thing. Be sure to vote.
It matters.
