Bill Latham Running for Municipal Council
Question #1: With an apparent change in policy by the Provincial Government, it appears privately owned shops will be able to sell Cannabis products. Should the City of Dryden grant business licenses to local shops to sell cannabis and associated products? How many should be allowed?
Answer: I support it, its beneficial to our community, as we will receive funding from the Government which will help with policing. If we opt out to not allow a store, we will not receive this funding. We will still have issues that may arise with the legalization of cannabis, as it will be available outside City limits.
Question #2: The first issue Council will face will be a decision on the OPP servicing the City versus remaining with the Dryden Police Service. Do you have a preference? And-a simple yes or no-would you be willing to hold a referendum on a possible switch?
Answer: I fully support all emergency services, once the OPP presentation is presented I would be able to make an informed decision. I don’t think Policing should be only about the dollar it should be about the services provided. I would like to see a public referendum.
Question #3: Possibly the most contentious issued faced by Council this year was the withdrawal of service by the Dryden Fire Fighters Association and the resulting restructuring of Dryden Fire Services. Do you feel the issue has been dealt with and is now closed or do you want to see it re-opened?
Answer: The issue could have been handled differently. A third party should have been contacted to help resolve the issue. The new policy should be reviewed yearly to ensure its properly suited for Dryden.
Question #4: Approximately 20% of Dryden residents are First Nations people. As a member of Council what would you do to ensure that our Indigenous residents, visitors and neighbours feel welcomed and are included as Dryden moves forward.
Answer: We need to strengthen relationships between the City of Dryden and Urban & Rural Aboriginal residents. We need to value their contributions, what they have accomplished to the City today and in the future. We need to invite them to participate in a strategic plan and improve relations.
Question #5: What would you do to enhance recreational activities and make Dryden more accessible and active?
Answer: Community members need to be consulted with, we need to look at what we have and what need to accommodate the needs.
Question #6: What is the single most important issue facing our newly elected Council in the coming year-and the single most important long term issue for the four-year term?
Answer: A strategic plan needs to completed, and put into action to get community moving forward again. We need to concentrate on paying down debt, but also need to consider our aging infrastructure. Be prepared for the next federal election with shovel ready projects that we can apply for and put in place for the City of Dryden
Question #7: Why should we vote you to Council?
Answer: I have been a Dryden resident for many years, I have worked for the Municipality and have a lot of knowledge. I am committed to the citizens of Dryden to build a positive, prosperous community.
