Thoughts on the Future of Our Community

Good governance begins with good relationships—and good relationships begin with communication.

Armstrong is a community with a tremendous amount of pride, spirit and volunteer energy. I believe it's time to bring that spirit back to the centre of how our city is governed.

There is a perception in our community that Armstrong's Mayor and Council have become disconnected from residents and local businesses. Whether deserved or not, that perception matters. As Mayor, I will work to change it.

During previous Council terms, we took pride in maintaining an open relationship with our business community through the Chamber of Commerce. We understood that a strong commercial core isn't just good for businesses—it is essential to the quality of life of Armstrong residents and the surrounding Spallumcheen community.

We also understood the importance of being responsible with taxpayers' money. Armstrong has historically been recognized for providing excellent facilities and services while maintaining relatively low taxes, and I believe that fiscal responsibility must remain a priority—particularly for seniors and families who are feeling the pressure of rising costs.

Bringing people back to the table

There is considerable frustration surrounding the design, disruption and cost of the current downtown revitalization project. Many property and business owners feel that their concerns have not been adequately heard.

I believe government works best when the people affected by decisions have a meaningful voice in finding solutions.

One of my first initiatives as Mayor will be to bring downtown business owners and residents together in a working group to identify practical solutions for restoring traffic, activity and vitality to our downtown core.

This isn't about looking backward or assigning blame.

It's about listening, finding common ground and getting Armstrong moving forward.

Working together with Spallumcheen

Armstrong's relationship with the Township is also critically important.

Our communities are connected in many ways, including through important shared services and financial relationships involving the Fire Department, Parks and Recreation and other areas of mutual importance.

As Mayor, I will work to re-establish a strong, respectful and productive relationship with our Township partners.

When Armstrong and Spallumcheen work together, both communities benefit.

Protecting local decision-making

There is another issue that concerns me deeply: the growing role of the Provincial government in determining how our communities develop.

Through recent legislation, the Province has increasingly limited the ability of local governments to make decisions about zoning and neighbourhood development.

I strongly oppose a one-size-fits-all approach that takes important decisions away from the people who know their communities best.

Armstrong is unique.

Our neighbourhoods, our history and our future shouldn't be dictated by policies designed for communities somewhere else in British Columbia.

Local decisions should be made locally.

Looking forward

We can learn from the past without being trapped by it.

I believe Armstrong has an exciting future ahead, but reaching that future will require open communication, responsible leadership and a willingness to listen—even when we don't always agree.

As Mayor, I will do my best to ensure that Armstrong continues to live up to the words that have represented this community for generations:

Pride. Spirit. Vision.