Reader puts forth items to consider heading into the October 26 municipal election

As a former newspaper reporter that covered multiple municipal, provincial and federal elections and also served four terms as a municipal councillor, I have some thoughts on the upcoming election for residents to consider.

The town is already assured two males will hold the top positions (mayor and deputy mayor) since women are not contesting those positions. Those men will also serve on county council. It might be wise for residents to consider voting in at least three females to councillor positions to have a “balance of viewpoints” in decision-making on council.

This election allows residents the chance to consider a major change on council composition since two positions are open as current councillors aren’t seeking re-election. Two new people, who are not currently on council, could be elected to both the mayor and deputy mayor positions meaning four new voices (maybe more) to consider town affairs.

Apparently Belle Vue, because of certain designations, cannot be torn down but I don’t believe this edict would include the old house and pavilion behind it, both eyesores. The new council consider their removal.

Do you walk or drive Amherstburg streets at night? Gaslight illumination in Jack the Ripper’s London was better. 

It is time to seriously consider some necessary upgrade to street lighting while continuing street repairs in the core area and on Concessions.

Open Air is a nice concept, but it benefits certain businesses, and undercuts others and it closes down Dalhousie/Richmond Streets to residents that live in that area for approximately 14 weekends annually. 

There is extensive parking and open areas for events at the arena grounds and now new space on the riverfront, so why are we paying money to block off, then re-open, streets that were built for the use of residential vehicular traffic? This also causes Sandwich St. to host lengthy frustrating car caravans. 

There are many other concerns that are election issues  like residents moving to surrounding towns where taxes are less, apartment dwellers that pay taxes in their rent but whose opinions are often overlooked or ignored, fire hall costs, policing concerns, dangers related to electric bikes, the need for a hotel and many more.

Finally, tourism is great, but tourists likely aren’t paying much in taxes here.

While not everyone will agree, I feel these are some items for consideration this election, both for residents and the next council.

—Robert Sinclair

Amherstburg

Reader puts forth items to consider heading into the October 26 municipal election