Please check out the articles covering issues that you’ve told me matter to you. I value your feedback on them as it informs the decisions I make. If you want to let me or others know about concerns or events in your neighbourhood, please get in touch.
email:marianne.meedward@burlington.ca
phone: 905-335-7600 ext. 7588
The job of protecting the rural area has already been done on our behalf by decree from the province, under the Places to Grow Act. We can’t take the credit for that, nor is that within our control. The rural area is protected, period. Our job, and what city council and staff do control, is how we will intensify the urban area in response.
The city is making strides forward on clear language and early notification. We have some areas for improvement, particularly in respect , listening with an open mind, and ensuring delegations are treated with respect.
Staff will conduct a review of municipalities that currently enforce smoke free events, and subject to the outcome of the review; it is the intention to have all events smoke free in 2014.
Marauder Man: I am more in favour of an alcohol ban at all events, as these 'beer tents' take up much needed…
The top rated places for cultural activity in the city, as identified by residents, are (in order of priority): parks & open spaces, the waterfront, library system, community centres, boards (Performing Arts Centre, Burlington Arts Centre, Museums), and festivals.
The project is too dense for the site, and will compromise greenspace and the character of the Ghent community.
The majority – 87% – of this year’s requests were approved, either as additions to the base budget or draws on reserves. We need to be more disciplined about saying no and focusing on need to haves, especially in light of the current economic climate.
Philip Harris: I have been retired for 15 years and over that time my income has slowly but steadily declined. This means…
I’m concerned about the delay in refocusing the BEDC structure to meet the targets set by the city for economic development. We must keep driving the momentum forward. Yes, it is important to plan then act – ready, aim, fire, as the expression goes. But let’s ensure that doesn’t become “ready, ready, and more getting ready to get ready.”
Tax breaks, office attraction, supporting mid-rise developments to meet growth targets, partnering with developers to build parking, and bringing a farmer’s market downtown are just some of the recommendations from the Downtown Task Group to improve the vibrancy of the heart of the city.
Allison Thornton: About 80 percent of Burlington had better take note; most neighbourhoods are not currently built up to the maximum density…