Bobby Gillespie – Owen Sound Council Candidate
First of all, tell us a little about your background and overall platform in 100 words or less.
I was born and raised in Owen Sound and have recently retired. I successfully ran an Office equipment company for 20 years, and then two local area golf courses (Sauble and Chippewa) for the next 22 years before retiring. I raised 3 daughters here in town, but they all moved on to London to pursue their careers as they could not find employment in their chosen fields locally.
What do you see as the major issue(s) facing business-owners in Grey-Bruce?
High taxes and lack of co-operation between local business owners and city hall. The lack of high speed broadband internet and poor highway access.
What strategies do you have in mind to stimulate economic growth in the region?
We need to work closely with the surrounding municipalities to attract new business. There should be a joint committee of Owen Sound’s economic development director, a local councillor, a councillor from Georgian Bluffs and a representative from the Chamber of Commerce.
Do you feel economic growth should focus on:
A) Bringing in new business developments, or
B) Encouraging small businesses presently in operations?
We need to work on both sides of this question, both new and existing businesses.
Although we’d all like to see lower taxes, we should try to maintain the current level to provide the level of municipal services require.
Do you think local business taxes should be:
A) Increased
B) Decreased
C) Maintained at current levels
Although we’d all like to see lower taxes, we should try to maintain the current level to provide the level of municipal services require.
Should there be any changes in the services offered to local businesses?
City Hall should work more closely with the business community, in making major decisions for the city.
