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Andrea Hilchie-Pye
- 'The division of the municipality into two units with smaller councils to better serve the rural and urban communities more effectively and efficiently.' Select 'Yes' if you support dividing the municipality in this manner, or 'No' if you oppose the division.
Yes. I understand the rational behind dividing council into rural and urban and support it in theory. Urban councilors should not be making decisions on issues that affect rural issues and vice versa. My concerns are around the cost implications in dividing the municipality. If elected I would like to begin by working with my colleagues at Council to identify areas where division is appropriate (in creating policy at Council for example)and where it may not be appropriate (emergency services).
- Tax reform that more closely aligns taxes with the actual cost of services delivered.'Select 'Yes' if you support reforming taxes in this manner, or select 'No' if you oppose.
Yes. Basing taxes on services available for use is a great start. I am concerned that we have not adequately addressed the Ability to Pay component and the Equity Principal.
- 'More aggressive development of the Arts and Culture sector by committing a minimum of 1% of the annual municipal budget to this sector.' Select 'Yes' if you support committing a minimum of 1% of the annual municipal budget to the Arts and Culture sector, or 'No' if you oppose.
Yes. Arts and Culture in Halifax emphasizes the character of our city and supporting these programs creates an environment where people can learn and build strong self esteem. I will expand successful programs such as schoolARTS.
- 'The creation of the position of Chief Sustainability Officer with the necessary authority and budget to ensure Halifax becomes the most sustainable city in Canada by 2020.' Select 'Yes' if you support creating the position of Chief Sustainability Officer as described in this statement, or 'No' if you oppose.
Yes. Sustainability is critical for the long term vitality of Halifax. A Chief Sustainability Officer will ensure decisions made support the vision for sustainability. I will work with my fellow colleagues to bring all relevant parties with an interest in sustainability together to develop the role and responsibilities for this position.
- 'The development of an integrated intercultural strategy to attract and retain immigrants and to better support disadvantaged groups within our community.' Select 'Yes' if you support developing an integrated intercultural strategy to attract and retain immigrants, and to better support disadvantaged groups within our community, or select 'No' if you oppose.
Yes. For the long term success of Halifax, we need to embrace people from various backgrounds and cultures in our city. We do not do this very well. I will advocate for an advisory group made up of our diverse and disadvantaged populations to help develop a culturally relevant strategy to attract, retain and support diverse and disadvantaged populations in Halifax. I will work with my colleagues in Council to ensure supports are in place to move forward with this strategy.
- 'The creation of a transportation authority to develop and implement a long-term comprehensive transportation strategy that integrates all modes of transportation.' Select 'Yes' if you support creating a transportation authority as described in this statement, or 'No' if you oppose.
Yes. A transportation authority is needed to ensure the decisions are made with the broader view in mind. There must be an opportunity to hear the voice of any group or neighborhood impacted by suggestions under the Authority. We do not want a repeat of Chebucto Road. Again as in the previous two questions, we need to bring all relevant parties to the table when developing the authority. It is important to remember taking time to do it right and being inclusive is critical for long-term success.
- 'The adoption of a more transparent and streamlined development process as proposed by the HRM by Design initiative.' Do you support or oppose adopting a more transparent and streamlined development process in this manner?
Yes. Being transparent in everything we do is fundamental for the future of our democratic process. I agree we should strive for efficiencies in any processes we develop. However, not every development proposal fits nicely predefined parameters. I want it clearly identified that citizens have the right to be engaged through input and discussion on development in HRM. HRMbyDesign needs to provide parameters on preserving our heritage buildings while supporting growth.
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