TERRACE’S mayor says he has alot to offer should he be elected for another term.
“I have a real strong passion for community development,” said Dave Pernarowski. “I think I offer an experienced, consistent choice right now.”
Pernarowski was first elected to city council in a 2007 byelection and then unseated long-time mayor Jack Talstra in the 2008 civic election.
“I think one more term would allow me to carry on a lot of the work that’s been developed over the last three years,” he said, noting over time he’s built contacts with various levels of government.
“Things are about to really take off in our community and in this region,” he continued. “It would be helpful to bring that experience and those contacts.”
Pernarowski said he’s bringing a ton of ideas, too.
“I have some ideas around creating affordable housing projects in the community,” he said, adding the community particularly needs a facility for young people who have nowhere else to go.
Pernarowski also said an increase in population will have an impact on various services.
“[For example,] we need money for a trauma centre,” he said.
In terms of the economy, attracting entrepreneurs, companies and industry are key to providing jobs in the community, he added.
Pernarowski said he’s inclined to be business and industry minded and is aware of the benefits a healthy economy brings to social services.
“I am because I realize that by giving jobs, hope and a paycheque... that money flows around, and we find additional tax dollars to fund projects people want to see and to fund social issues.”
And money is an issue when balancing various community interests.
For instance, Pernarowski drew criticism from some sectors of the community by voting against motions to give money towards the purchase of Shames Mountain ski facility.
Also, a reccomendation to put the former Terrace Co-op property on the market wasn’t supported by other council members.
Pernarowski said now, he’d like a community committee set up to help decide what to do with the property next.
“We can’t allow that property to sit for another three years. Council will have to make a decision,” he said.
Pernarowski would like to see the property used for something that will create jobs, bring in tax dollars, and serve a community interest.