We know City budgets are tough. More demands from more citizens, rising inflation, competing

demands all make setting a budget a challenge. But such challenges demand much more vigour and

scrutiny in budget making. Cost overruns, scheduling delays, expensive and unproven “green” policies,

and an unwillingness to cut anything do not demonstrate fiscal prudence.

A thriving business community is essential to Edmonton's economy. Yet too often burdensome City regulations and difficult permitting processes stifle entrepreneurial initiative. It's that spirit that starts business, hires people, strengthens the community and expands the tax base that pays for the services we all want and need. Edmonton must be “open for business” in order for us all to prosper. The current Council's record is not encouraging.

Edmonton's population is growing. Council must ensure that services, amenities and facilities grow as well. However, execution on basics such as roadway access to new neighborhoods is ignored. Public transit, including LRT, performs poorly. Long-promised recreation facilities are delayed again and again. Citizens expect these core functions to be handled competently. Councils record is

disappointing.

Edmonton is a vibrant community, comprising varied communities, different demographics, multiple cultures, all of whom deserve respect and acknowledgement. Council must reflect this reality in transparent, accountable and accessible decision making. People who actually live in the neighborhoods affected by Council proposals must be listened to.

The specifics of a full platform will be the result of a process involving our members, candidates and Party officials that will be ratified at an AGM. Because candidates represent different areas of the City with different needs, priorities and issues, the details will need to be worked through carefully. But since we believe in fiscal prudence, you can expect to see calls for spending reviews. And we also believe in being business friendly, so red tape will certainly be a target.