WEEK 3: FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY, DEVELOPMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE
A Focus on the Taxpayer
Michael’s professional background is in finance and accounting.
He believes municipal spending should be examined carefully, with residents able to understand what they are paying for and what they are receiving in return.
His approach includes examining:
- Operating and capital spending
- Procurement
- Contracts
- Service agreements
- Opportunities for efficiencies
- Economies of scale
- Long-term infrastructure costs
- The financial impact of development decisions
The objective is not simply to reduce spending.
It is to ensure that tax dollars are being used effectively.
Economic Development
Michael believes Pickering needs a diverse economic base that includes businesses and employment opportunities.
A stronger commercial and industrial tax base can provide another source of municipal revenue while creating local employment.
His approach to economic development is focused on the economic return to the community.
What investment is coming into Pickering?
How many jobs are being created?
What infrastructure is required?
What will it cost taxpayers?
And what is the long-term benefit?
Growth in Northeast Pickering
Michael does not support immediate residential development in Northeast Pickering.
His position is that Pickering should first focus on completing and developing Seaton before considering additional residential expansion.
If Northeast Pickering is eventually considered for residential development, infrastructure costs should be carefully evaluated and a funding model should involve developers and senior levels of government rather than placing the burden primarily on existing residents.
Respectful Urban Development
Growth should fit with existing communities.
Michael supports careful development along areas such as the Highway 2 corridor while considering:
- Existing neighbourhoods
- Traffic and transportation
- Infrastructure capacity
- Housing needs
- Senior housing
- Affordable housing
- Community character
Growth should be planned rather than simply occurring because land is available.
Roads and Snow Removal
Infrastructure affects residents every day.
Michael supports continued work with Durham Region on:
- Road repairs
- Traffic calming
- Pedestrian safety
- Speed management
- Signage
- Neighbourhood traffic concerns
He also believes Pickering should examine whether there are better approaches to snow removal, including the challenges residents face with snow accumulation at the bottom of driveways.
