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With a municipal election in the next few days, those running appear to have a few issues on their radar, including a Waterfront Master plan for all of Saugeen Shores, downtown improvement plans, high property taxes and economic development.

When asked about the waterfront and a Master Plan, all agree that it is a major tourist attraction for the area and, therefore, creates an economic spin-off that should take precedence over the next few years.

"We had a Waterfront Master Plan in 1993," says incumbent Councilor Taun Frosst, "and can probably use most of what was in it, with a few tweeks."

"I agree that we have to take a comprehensive look at the beaches," incumbent Deputy Mayor Doug Freiburgers says.  "As Chair of the Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SCVA), one of my most important priorities is the lake, the beaches and the quality of water in our area.  It is one of my most important priorities."

Deputy Mayor challenger Luke Charbonneau also says that a comprehensive Master Plan and Waterfront committee is needed.

Newcomer to the race for Councilor, Sunny Cushnie, points out that the waterfront in Saugeen Shores actually consists of several  'segregated communities' and each has its own natural environment.  "I think we need to engage each area's residents and try to arrive at what is important to each segment of the waterfront."

Challenger for the Mayor's chair and former Councilor, Victoria Serda, was a member of the former Environment Committee and also the Waterfront Committee, expresses her skepticism.  "Many have tried to improve the Port Elgin beach, in particular, and so I am surprised at the amount of support being voiced after the fact.  Council, in fact, turned down the former Waterfront Master Plan and the 'Striking Committee', consisting of the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Vice Deputy Mayor, that had the final say, also vetoed it.  It is of the utmost important ... not just because of the economics but also for the environment."

Incumbent Mayor, Mike Smith, who was born and has been raised in the area, said that he has seen many changes on the beaches over the years.  "At one time, we thought grooming the beaches was the way to go but now we realize it is not necessarily good for the environment of the lakefront.  Without a doubt, beach revitalization will be important over the coming years."

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Wednesday, October 20, 2010