Editor's Note: We asked Tay Township council members for their take on the first two years of their mandate as well as how they see the future unfolding. A few didn't respond, but we're delighted to offer you some insight from those who did. Today, we hear from Ward 2 councillor Jeff Bumstead.
Question 1. What are you most proud of, personally as a councillor, that you/council have been able to accomplish in the first half of your mandate?
Organizational Review which has seen the addition of new staff positions to improve service levels within the Township, more emphasis on getting more roads re-surfaced, and initial steps toward data collection on Tay roads in hopes of strategies to reduce speeding concerns and improve road safety overall.
Question 2. What is your biggest disappointment as it relates to a council decision/direction or issue?
There is not one issue, where I can say I was totally disappointed of council’s decision or direction on a particular issue. There have been, of course, a few issues where the vote didn’t go the way I had hoped or believed it would go, but I had my say, as did others, and most often council considers all factors, opinions and data when arriving at decisions, which I am happy to be a part of.
Question 3. Nobody saw the pandemic coming. Specifically, as a councillor, what is the biggest challenge the pandemic has created and how have you tried to tackle that challenge?
Less opportunities to meet ratepayers, staff and fellow councillors in person along with less public events where normally I would be able to catch up, connect with and thank community members and volunteers.
Question 4. Access to Georgian Bay remains a concern for many. Do you feel council needs to address this issue? If so, how?
No, I believe Tay has provided many ways to access Georgian Bay via a free public launch (currently being reviewed for resident-use only), many beaches and parks, along with numerous unopened road allowances.
Question 5. Are you doing enough as a council to be transparent, to encourage public input and to listen? How so? How could that be improved during the second half of your mandate?
I personally have continued to share information via social media and email and have provided numerous ways for ratepayers to connect and contact me. With the recent addition of a new communications professional, communication to Tay ratepayers will continue to improve.
Question 6. What is the biggest challenge council faces in the second half of its mandate (ie. Staff retirements, promised tax freeze, capacity) and what are your top priorities?
Tay still needs to hire staff as per the organizational review which will add to the tax levy, while trying to maintain current and improved service levels where desired, and the goal of keeping property taxes as low as possible. Top priority is continued road improvements along with plans to keep them maintained increasing their longevity, into the future.
Question 7: Lastly, do you intend to seek re-election? Why or why not?
Not sure at this point. I do enjoy serving and being apart of the different committees with the goal of improving Tay. My decision will depend on what this Council can achieve in the next two years along with personal commitments to family, community and work.
