David Hocking – Hanover Mayoral Candidate
Councillor in the Town of Hanover for nine years, David Hocking has also been the chair for three fundraising projects in Hanover: the Regional Aquatic Facility, the Medical Clinic and the P&H Centre. He was the chair of the first Habitat for Humanity building project in Hanover and the chair of the Hanover and Hospital Board for four years. David was Director on the Grey-Owen Sound Children’s Aid Society for two years.
David graduated from the University of Guelph where he obtained an Honours Bachelor of Science Degree in 1970, then a Teacher Education program at the University of Western Ontario. Through his career, he has been vice principal at OSCVI principal of adult education for Grey County and then principal of JDSS.
Do you have any strategies prepared to encourage local economic growth? Which issue should this next term’s council give to more focus to: A) Bringing in new business developments, or B) encouraging small businesses presently in operations?
Our strategy should be one of retention and recruitment meaning that we must continue to support our existing businesses and industries as we move forward our recruitment approach.
What do you see has been the largest challenge over the last 10 years, faced by business operators in your region?
I am answering this question from a relator perspective. Business operators have told me when I represent a seller or buyer that commercial taxes are pushing the envelope and we need to be competitive if we want to attract new business to our town.
Do you think local business taxes are at a fair rate, or should be lowered or raised? Should there be any changes in the municipal services provided to businesses, (such as garbage removal)?
Please note my answer to the second questions. We need a dialogue with our current businesses to determine what is a fair rate and review the municipal services as it applies to the business community. My goal is to ensure that our businesses are not unfairly tapped to the point that they lose their competitive edge in the market.
What three things would like to see achieved during your term as mayor?
- Review the current strategic plan and complete unfinished action plans related to the 4 strategic directions namely; Regional Service Centre; The Economy; The Downtown; Healthy Community.
- We need to lead from the front and not the back. We need bold and innovative initiatives to attract new employees and businesses that value our quality of life in Hanover.
- As an adjunct to our JOBS Strategy, competitive commercial and residential rates are very important. I would ask a community based committee consisting of staff and community members to complete an audit of programs and services and make a recommendation for any potential savings that we may consider without compromising on level of service.
