Finally, this past week-end, my opponent, Larry Braid posted some campaign signs. Noteworthy is his slogan “change for the better”.
“Change” is defined in the Oxford Dictionary as “make or become different” and “better” is defined as “more desirable, satisfactory or effective.”
Braid is not new to municipal government. He has been an area and District councillor for the last seven years. But what is his record? The previous Council built the current Administration Building amidst much controversy – its cost was 50% over the budget of $1.95 million – a total of $2.95 million. The previous Council also announced a Port Severn Bridge widening during its last few weeks in office. Only later did we learn that the Township had an obligation to pay 40% of the cost (approximately $575,000). In addition, we still do not know how this commitment was approved.
During the life of this Council, Braid was chair of the District Community Services Committee. We have yet to see one community service programme in the Township, even though we pay for a broad range of services through our District taxes. On the other hand, the current Council has sponsored significant infrastructure improvements. In response to these changes, Braid has been a notable detractor on Council. Furthermore, although Braid is advocating for accountability and transparency, he simultaneously supports an anonymous web-site defaming this Council.
In sum, Braid’s actions do not instil much confidence in his commitment to his own slogan “change for the better”. The past is often a good predictor for the future. Thus, it is worthy to note Braid’s regressive record on change and be wary of his vague promises for the future.
