Part of running for office is listening to voter concerns, which is precisely what David Smith has been doing since announcing his mayoral candidacy a month ago.
So what has he been hearing?
“Traffic is a big issue for people,” explained Smith, who said based on what he has heard to this point, congestion on roads, transit and growth management are the top three issues on the minds of Cochrane residents.
Smith believes one of the ways he could combat traffic concerns would be to improve the communication between council and the town’s infrastructure personnel.
Smith said one of his strengths is making sure that strategic plans are operational; in other words, ensuring the plan makes sense to all involved so the plan can be implemented effectively.
Communication is a large part of Smith’s campaign, and, if elected, would play a significant role in his duties as mayor.
“People have an appreciation that I’m going to bring a more practical, involved role as mayor,” said Smith, who manned a booth at the Cochrane Trade Show May 10-11 and was visited by several curious voters. “I learned how many people in Cochrane are committed to their groups and causes...people are very passionate.”
Smith is aware that no candidate can run for municipal office for one reason alone, and said that in the past, some have run on a single platform.
“I’m not,” he declared, adding that he feels there is a perception in Cochrane that there is difficulty accessing the mayor and council — something he vows to change.
Smith said he would bring more of a common sense, business approach to the mayor’s position, using his skills to negotiate and pro-active attitude to encourage businesses to come to Cochrane.
Smith pointed out that at present, Cochrane’s tax base sits at 87 per cent residential and 13 per cent business, something he feels needs to change to somewhere in the 70/30 range.
“I will meet face-to-face and find out what it is we need to do to be more business-friendly,” said Smith.
As for transit, Smith said he is not for or against the initiative, he simply wants all costs to be clearly outlined, a sentiment he shares with all Cochrane’s infrastructure projects, including the aquatic and arts centres.
Bringing jobs to Cochranites between 19-45 years of age is also a top priority for Smith.
“Cochrane is at a very important crossroads in time,” said Smith, “and people understand that.
“To create change, you have to create a movement,” added Smith. “I represent change. I have to get people out to vote, or nothing will change.”
