October 18, 2004 is Election Day in Red Deer.  Return to Election Forum - City Council Candidates

Mitch Thomson for City Council -

Bright Ideas for Red Deer

www.mitchthomson.ca

A fter years of solid leadership, our mayor is stepping down, many long-term city employees are nearing retirement and much of our city infrastructure is aging.  Relentless growth has transformed Red Deer into Alberta 's third largest city at an exhausting pace.

Red Deer is a wonderful city. The difference between Red Deer remaining a wonderful city or becoming an exceptional city depends on what you and I do today!

That is why I've decided to run for a city councilor.  I care about Red Deer and I want to work with you to make this city exceptional. 

My vision of Red Deer 's future will continue to be collaborative, progressive and secure. I want my daughter to grow up and be proud of this city. Furthermore, I believe our grandchildren can enjoy the same beauty and prosperity that we are fortunate to have.

I Believe in...

Safety and Security:

"We all want to feel safe in our homes, work places and communities."

•  Red Deer is growing fast and developing big city problems. I will work with various groups to effectively reduce the risks associated with our strong economy, large youth population and rapid growth.

•  Crystal Meth and other highly addictive drugs are too accessible, I will work hard to encourage strategies to combat the effects of drugs and drug related crimes.

•  We do not have to accept increasing level of crime. I will strive to ensure that we have the most appropriate and most effective police service possible. It's time Red Deer evaluated the option of a municipal police force.

 Managing Growth:
"I believe we must build with caution, maintain with integrity, and plan for expansion."

•  I would work with regional communities on issues such as water and wastewater management as well as economic development. Central Albertans need to work together on issues that affect us all.

•  I believe an efficient transit serviced must be widely available to ensure citizens have the freedom and independence to learn, work and play throughout Red Deer .

•  Because Red Deer has run out of industrial land, businesses are going elsewhere. If we don't act now Red Deer won't have new land available for almost two years. I will work to make industrial lands available and draw more business to Red Deer .

 Fiscal Responsibility:
"We can buy the horse, but can we afford to feed it?"

•  We must prioritize what we want and focus on serving the needs of our community. This starts with respecting taxpayers, developing realistic, long-term strategies, and ensuring good value for every tax dollar spent.

•  I will work to develop and attractive and stable tax environment for homeowners and businesses.

•  In the next three years council we be forced to address a shortfall of over $70 million for capital projects. I will separate the wants from the needs and prioritize these projects according to how they will affect our communities.

  Mitch Thomson

Candidate for Red Deer City Council

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