Image Credit: City of Vernon
September 25, 2014 - 10:15 AM
VERNON - Vernon City Councillor Catherine Lord believes she has more work to do and is running for a second term in November.
"Over these past three years, I've learned that being a councillor is not a one-issue job," Lord says. "There are many issues facing Vernon, from the state of our economy to the sustainability of our infrastructure. A number of actions to address some of these issues are in progress, and I'd like to see them through to completion."
In particular, Lord says she'll focus her energy on retaining and expanding local businesses. She also wants to continue monitoring cost containment at the city.
"This past council has held administration to no staff increases and to a 1.8 per cent ceiling on cost increases annually. One of my priorities is to always, always consider the cost to the taxpayer."
Lord says to have a sustainable community the city must run efficiently, operate within their budget and deliver the best value for the money. She also says there has been an improvement in the city's relationship with the Regional District of North Okanagan and Coldstream and it's due to building trust and respect. Maintaining these relationships is key to achieving region-wide initiatives, particularly when applying for financial assistance from the province, Lord says.
Lord would like to see continued responsible operation of local parks, an area she notes has seen progress over the year she's sat on council. "Twinning" of Kal Tire Place and deciding what to do about the Kin Race Track and helping the Art Gallery find a new place to call home are all on her to-do list.
"I've tried to approach all issues with common sense and fiscal restraint, and will continue to do so," Lord says.
To contact the reporter for this story, email Charlotte Helston at chelston@infotelnews.ca or call 250-309-5230. To contact the editor, email mjones@infotelnews.ca or call 250-718-2724.
News from © iNFOnews, 2014