Martin Seeking Fourth Term

Michael Martin - The Blue Mountain Council Candidate

Michael Martin – The Blue Mountain Council Candidate

First of all, tell us a little about your background and overall platform in 100 words or less.

I am a three-term councilor, current council representative and Planning Committee Chair.

I have served on Council for 11 years having retired to Blue Mountains in 1994 from legal practice in real estate and municipal law, having acted for Municipalities, Ratepayer and Developers, and as an Corporate  Senior Executive involved in retail, commercial and residential development.

Background: left Toronto to live in Thornbury from 1994: retired from career as lawyer.

What do you see as the major issue(s) facing business-owners in Grey-Bruce?

A major issue over the next 4 year term to support the business community is a change in the corporate climate of the municipality’s bureaucracy.

I want to change the climate of Town administration to meet public expectation in timeliness and minimum red tape. I have received numerous concerns from small businesses, major developers, and residents who are unsatisfied with how are services are accessed and delivered. Again I am not critical of staff: they do their best given their limitations; but, again it is up to Council to develop and show leadership and eliminate limitations. The business community must feel confidence in its relationship to Town Hall not antagonistic.

The business community must feel confidence in its relationship to Town Hall not antagonistic.What strategies do you have in mind to stimulate economic growth in the region? 

The principal strategy which is now under way is the results of our economic development program of “Business Retention and Expansion” study. One aspect already identified is to ensure existing businesses consider growing their markets rather than constantly look for out of area businesses to relocate.

Do you feel economic growth should focus on: growth of existing businesses.

A) Bringing in new business developments, or

B) Encouraging small businesses presently in operations?

This is the preferred over attraction of new.

Do you think local business taxes should be:

A) Increased

B) Decreased

C) Maintained at current levels

I think taxes have to meet the requirements of delivery of all municipal services as required by legislation. I am working to keep taxes within acceptable and affordable limits.

 

Should there be any changes in the services offered to local businesses?

There needs to be better coordination among the business services offered by the municipality, the County and the Province: stop the tail chasing…

 

Sponsors

Ticker

Learn to Network

Business Networking International (BNI) Sound Networking meets Each Wednesday 7:00 – 8:30 AM at Frog Ponds Cafe

Meet local business people and find out how networking is one of the most effective methods for marketing your business.
Visitors are always welcome, just call ahead to let us know you are coming 519-371-2622.

Business Enterprise Centre Workshops

Basics of Bookkeeping (Three part workshop)
Tuesday September 19th and 26th and Tuesday October 3rd, 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Business Enterprise Centre Training Room $95 (HST included)
Facilitator: Jane Gallagher
This three part Bookkeeping Workshop will allow you to use the tools and information to confidently understand your financial statements and your own books. Class size is limited to 8 to allow a hands-on, individual learning opportunity for everyone.

Business Enterprise Centre Workshops

How to “Really” Start a Business
Wednesday September 20th, 9:00 am – 11:30 am, Bayshore Community Centre
FREE – Pre-registration is required
Facilitator: Cliff Bilyea
Discover the basic steps involved in starting a business, evaluating your idea, determining your market and basic rules and regulations. Attending the is workshop is mandatory for anyone applying to the Starter Company Plus Program.

Business Enterprise Centre Workshops

Introduction to Quick Books (Two part workshop)
Tuesday October 17th and 24th, 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Business Enterprise Centre Training Room, $80 (HST Included)
Instructor: Jane Gallagher
The first session of Quick Books provides participants with an overview and access to a trial version of the program. The second session will be questions and answers to address specific issues. Knowledge of basic bookkeeping principles is required. Limited to 8, you must bring your own laptop. (This workshop does not cover the online version of Quick Books)

Contact

Phone: 519 371 7464
Fax: 519 371 4043
Site: gbbj.biz
Email: editor@gbbj.biz
Address: 1240 2nd Ave E
Owen Sound, ON N4K 2J3

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