I have been on Council 12 years and half of that has been as Mayor. In that time we have faced adversity and seen success. There have been discussions and disagreement. Through all of this I have learned a lot about Midway, myself, and my position. I’m sure you are all getting enough declarations of things accomplished and self back-patting this time of the year, so I would instead like to take this chance to share my thoughts on the position of Mayor and the challenges I see us facing.
Our system here in Canada gives the Mayor powers roughly equal to the rest of Council with the added responsibilities of running meetings and representing Council and the community in ceremonies, hearings and in times of need. It is my responsibility to lead Council. Present them with all the options; give everyone a chance to share and ensure that they come to an informed decision, even if I don’t agree. The Mayor should then help staff interpret that direction and implement it.
Midway faces the same challenges that every small town in BC and probably elsewhere face. How do we maintain our way of life with the ever-increasing costs associated? How do we balance the desires and needs of our residents for services against their ability to pay the resulting increase in taxes? How do we attract industry and residents who will only come if we increase our amenities and services? Increases we can’t afford without a larger tax base that we won’t have until the new industry and residents start paying taxes. The same way we always have. Hard work, determination, and creativity. Midway will find it’s way into the future. A future my family and I will be proud to be a part of.