Cleminson wants to listen and ask tough questions if elected

Frank Cleminson

Frank Cleminson wants to bring his skills and ask the tough questions to town council, if elected.

Cleminson is running for a councillor seat in the Oct. 26 municipal election, stating he has experience that is relevant.

“My HR background and skillsets that I’ve acquired over time I feel can be utilized on council,” said Cleminson. 

Cleminson pointed out he served almost 12 years with the Amherstburg Police Services Board (APSB) and was involved in setting the police budget. Those skills are something he can bring to council, adding his experience with the APSB taught him a great deal about public service including lessons in responsibility, accountability and earning public trust.

Feeling the residents are shareholders, he said the issue of what police service will serve the town once the current contract with the Windsor Police Service is up is vital.

“The policing issue is near and dear to me,” said Cleminson.

Cleminson added he has three business plans on the issue, one of which is a return to the Amherstburg Police Service. He noted the costs of that option as the town would have to spend significant start-up money to restart that service.

Keeping the Windsor option is something Cleminson wants to keep on the table. Talking with the city may “redefine” what policing looks like moving forward.

“There are a lot of great officers doing it,” he said.

The OPP is another option and while not taking away from the OPP, he questions the level of control the town would have. He added there will have to be repairs and upgrades made to the police station.

Open Air Weekends is something he has heard concerns over, such as traffic and parking while the event is on every weekend. 

“Everyone I speak to says parking is a concern,” he said.

There are also concerns from some businesses in the area, he stated.

“I’d like to review it,” he said.

Traffic was also identified, including how vehicles flow through town. One idea could be to see how the traffic lights are synched. Pedestrian safety around parks is another issue, with yellow lines painted on the pavement an idea to highlight to drivers where a crossing is.

Replacing the Lion’s Pool is something Cleminson would like to see investigated.

“I still feel that needs to be replaced,” he said. “I go through LaSalle and see the pool on Front Road is full.”

Another issue are taxes, with Cleminson stating the town should take a closer look at costs, including roads, water, sewers and parks.

“Are we cost efficient?” he asked.

Noting a desire to get more industry in Amherstburg, Cleminson added he’d be interested trying to recruit businesses, with the blessing of the mayor.

“We’re growing residentially but it would be nice to get some industry. Obviously, that would help with the tax base.”

Cleminson said he is approachable and wants to hear from residents.

“The biggest thing is listening to the shareholders and getting clear direction on what their concerns are,” he said.

Cleminson wants to listen and ask tough questions if elected

By Ron Giofu