The Issue
Fiscal responsibility is not simply about spending less. It is about understanding what we are paying for, what results we are getting and what today's decisions will cost in the years ahead.
My Approach
Tie major expenditures to clear objectives, strengthen oversight of significant contracts and projects, use competitive processes where appropriate and consider both the immediate price and the long-term cost to taxpayers.
Responsible government also means strengthening the revenue side so City services are less dependent on any one industry or revenue source.
What I Would Push For
- Clearer budgetsPresent major financial decisions in language residents can follow.
- Contract accountabilityKnow what was promised, what it costs, whether deadlines are being met and what results were delivered.
- Long-term costsConsider maintenance, staffing and future obligations before approving major expenditures.
- Competitive processesUse competition where appropriate to establish value rather than simply accepting the easiest available option.
- Revenue resilienceContinue broadening the City's economic base rather than becoming overly dependent on one sector.
How We Measure Progress
Major financial decisions should have clear objectives, understandable costs and measurable results. Significant contracts and projects should be tracked against what was promised, while long-term obligations are considered before approval.
What Is Already Happening
City Council regularly considers budgets, contracts, fees, development and other municipal decisions. The goal is to make those decisions easier to understand and to evaluate them against clear objectives and long-term costs.
