Richard Jonasson 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 believe that Dryden should allow the sale of cannabis and grant licenses to privately owned local shops. I think the demand for this product would determine how many shops would be needed to service the Dryden and surrounding areas. I feel under the Provincial laws and guidelines it will have a positive effect. It will create more taxable revenue and job growth. It has been proven that it has many medical benefits also. At present any of the cannabis for medical use has to be purchased outside of Dryden. I do feel that it must be in a properly zoned in a commercial area and with a minimum distance to schools, playgrounds and parks. The local police would be an asset in determining the proper locations for these dispensaries.
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 personally support the local city police and feel it is not always about saving a dollar when it comes to our safety and security. The local police are more than just officers on the job. Many volunteer hours are put into our community supporting the growth of our youth. These men and women grow with our community and share a pride and determination to keep Dryden safe and secure. On this issue I feel there should be a referendum because there is no going back on this issue and we need to have a clear direction of what the people of Dryden want. This decision takes Dryden in a completely new direction.
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: I believe this issue has been dealt with by the past council, should be put in the past and move forward. The safety of the people of Dryden is the real issue here. We all pay taxes and want to feel we are being well protected by the fire department and their services. I do believe that all the volunteers add great value to our fire department and support a team effort involving everyone. All provincial standards should be meet and kept in check at all times.
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: I feel a that a city representative should have constant contact with the First Nations and the Indigenous residents. Their concerns and future development can be addressed and promote a positive environment. We must understand that they are here to stay and are Dryden’s residents also. A larger employment must begin, to be able to support their growth in our city. Many possibilities exists when we partner with the First Nations and Indigenous people of Dryden and surrounding areas. We must respect their cultural differences and form a union with them to create a positive growth and understanding between all groups.
Question #5: What would you do to enhance recreational activities and make Dryden more accessible and active?
Answer: Dryden has so many well developed recreational sites within the city. I think locally sponsored events would attract more use of these sites. I have many ideas I would like to develop with the new council. We can create new revenue streams for these sites and further expansion will take place to meet the demands. The possibilities are endless to what we can do to enhance our recreational sites.
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: I think the most important issue facing our new council will be keeping the city moving in the positive motion that it is going now. The past council has worked very hard on dealing with the past large debt that they had inherited. With the future debt payment scheduled kept as planned, will give the city a new start on revitalizing itself. Many services and infrastructure need to be upgraded and this is only possible with the debt paid down. The new Council will have to develop a new strategic plan for the city and act on it. I have a vision of a new down town square surrounded by a strong retail market. I see a development of our lake front that all communities would envy and desir. I see a great future for Dryden and with the right group of leaders to promote a vibrant future.
Question #7: Why should we vote you to Council?
Answer: I want to be the voice of the people and deal with the matters of true importance and concern. I want the concerns addressed promptly and have satisfying results. I raised my children here in Dryden and it made me so proud of the safety, the positive influences and sense of a community that helped them grow to be well balanced adults. I feel it is my time to give back to this special city and help install these values and beliefs into our youth and residents. I believe in Dryden and its potential in every aspect possible. Its only limitations are the leaders that you elect to represent you.
