Trevor Miller
While I agree with the majority of candidates that the top issue is our crumbling infrastructure, what we need more is viable solutions to this problem, not just a recognition.
Our roads need major repairs, a number of community facilities are finding themselves on the budget bubble and there doesn’t seem to be a plan at the moment that addresses much in the way of root problems associated with inheriting an infrastructure from a town that peaked around 10,000 trying to pay the bills with about 5,000 residents.
Recognizing your problem is a huge first step, but I think we’re about ready to move on to step 2 and beyond.
Trevor Miller is a local writer and essayist.
Doreen Murray
When it comes to the failing infrastructure, all candidates for council were pretty much on the same page.
What appealed to me were the answers given by Tom Davie and Colleen McKee, who both expressed the need for spending accountability. Bill Hanson’s concern about the city’s inability to get more money from the province and federal governments also resonated.
The cottager situation was best expressed by Tim Babcock, who said that their job as councillors is to do what is best for the taxpayers of Flin Flon. Well said, Tim.
In short, there is much to be done. Good luck to all candidates.
Doreen Murray is a semi-retired businesswoman.
Ken Mansell
I did not hear any new ideas expressed in the replies. The same old arguments about aging infrastructure, declining tax base, annexing cottage country, fire protection, need for more provincial funding, etc., are all common denominators.
A few candidates mentioned the need for more senior housing, something we do need.
Our new council must do the best with what they have, and that is the ability to say no when there is a hefty price tag attached.
Tom Davie emphasized the need for more accountability for large projects. I agree.
Ken Mansell is a retired Flin Flonner.
