Thomas Foster – Grey Highlands Council Candidate
First of all, tell us a little about your background and overall platform in 100 words or less.
I am a semi- retired businessman and former professional golfer. I have 3 children two of whom served in the military. I started my working life in the Royal Canadian Navy and continued into several varied occupations afterward. I have been involved in the political arena for many years and find the biggest thing missing is straight talk and straight answers. My platform is based on what the community wants, meaning grass roots politics and listening to all the constituents, as they elect me to represent them.
What do you see as the major issue(s) facing business-owners in Grey-Bruce?
As in every community over the years a myriad of red tape develops. Business needs a streamlined and unencumbered process to feel welcome in a community. A lack of business focused direction has been evident, as the council focused on other matters. We need to look at land for a light industrial area and we require a most expert voice like the Chamber of Commerce to work closely with existing and new business to better meet there needs. Perhaps an EDC committee or person in Administration to coordinate all of the information and expertise that exists in Grey Highlands.
Do you feel economic growth should focus on:
A) Bringing in new business developments, or
B) Encouraging small businesses presently in operations?
Growth only happens when you plan and move on the plan.Return to an EDC committee, follow and expand on the strategic plan incorporating ideas into the official plan and, creating a business friendly atmosphere using the staff and Chamber of Commerce to guide an open for business direction.
All business avenues should be encouraged. Growth only happens when you plan and move on the plan. Existing small business should be encouraged. Incoming entrepreneurs should be encouraged. Light industrial should be encouraged.
Do you think local business taxes should be:
A) Increased
B) Decreased
C) Maintained at current levels
Taxes at all levels need to remain at the lowest possible. Zero based budgets should become zero tax increase planned budget. There may not always be a zero tax increase budget but it should always be the goal.
Should there be any changes in the services offered to local businesses?
I believe I have answered your question of services in the above statements.
