In an effort to promote discussion on key issues during the current election period, we are giving candidates the opportunity to answer a number of questions that may be of interest to local voters.
Everyone receives the same questions, and their answers are presented with minimal editing for format purposes only.
Here is the candidate profile for Quinte West Council Candidate for Sidney Ward (Ward 2) Egerton Boyce.
Election day is October 26th.
First and Last Name
Egerton Boyce
What position are you seeking in the upcoming municipal election on October 26?
Sidney Ward Councillor Quinte West
Question 1 – Why are you running and what are your main priorities if elected/re-elected?
I grew up in a family that instilled in me the value of giving oneself back to your community to make it a better place for all its residents. My priorities are to advocate for more serviced industrial and commercial land to help offset the residential tax base . Working with neighbouring municipalities whenever possible for shared services and goods to lessen the tax burden and to advocate strongly for increased trail and recreational services to helpbornite a healthy community. As a firmer councillor in Belleville (2003-2018) and a current Sidney ward councillor, I have advocated strongly for Doctor and Nurse practitioner recruitment. Finally, it is my goal to increase communication and participation between local govt and its residents
Question 2 – How do you balance budgetary restraint with continuing increases in many areas of the municipal budget?
You work strongly with your local MPs and MPPs to achieve various level grants to address aging infrastructure. You work with neighbouring municipalities on tenders for goods and you work alongside service clubs and organizations for various added infrastructure such as dedicated playgrounds etc. You review all departments services to seek possible savings and you establish serviced industrial and commercial land to increase your industrial tax base and lessen your percentage of residential tax reliance
Question 3 – Infrastructure projects are a huge strain on local budgets, especially when it comes to water/wastewater. How can we address/reduce these costs moving forward and mitigate the impact for ratepayers/taxpayers?
A strong asset management plan identifies infrastructure and when it’s best to repair before it becomes cost prohibitive. Working closely with your local MPs and MPPs to identify available grants for infrastructure. Finally a strong strategic plan identifies growth and service areas to concentrate effective spending dollars.
Question 4 – What measures can the municipality take to address the issues of affordability and housing security?
Working with the federal and provincial govts to receive grants and other available monies. Working closely with developers to encourage affordable housing through development fee assistance and other measures.
Question 5 – Homelessness has become a major issue for most local communities. What would you do to address this issue and what needs to happen to have a meaningful impact?
The municipality must continue to work as partners with Hastings county and its municipalities to address homelessness. We must work with AMO to advocate to the province for more financial resources. We also must continue to assist our local churches and organizations with their services. We have to remain vocal to our upper level governments to financially assist. We need to continue to work with various task forces to identify and assist with solutions.
Question 6 – What message do you want the voter to know about you and your campaign and your priorities for the next four years?
I love our Bay of Quinte area. I was born and raised here. I have a passion for helping others and I want to continue to help make our community better. I will continue to advocate for you and our municipality. Doctor recruitment, industrial serviced land, recreational services we all can use, and a strong asset management plan and strategic plan are my priorities.
