Matthew Villella – At Large Candidate
1.Businesses are frequently the targets of crime and on the front line dealing with societal problems in the area; what steps do you think should be taken to ensure businesses are protected and our community is safer to explore, shop, work and play in.
We ultimately need to address our addictions and mental health issues. Lobbying our federally elected officials is a good starting place. We need to make sure everybody needs the help they deserve. Unfortunately Thunder Bay just can’t meet these demands. I think if we increase traffic, make more lit areas and have more presence by police or maybe community safety we can do better. This is a big issue that needs work. However, I think if we focus on bring businesses here and educating people about the area we can do great work.
- What is your impression of the Fort William Business community? What is one thing that is done well and what is one thing that needs to improve?
I believe the Fort William Business area needs more attention as a city as a whole. We need more businesses and we need to also focus on ensuring we give this area the support it needs.
- With the revitalization of downtown Fort William project underway there is no planned community center for the area after the project is completed. Victoriaville provided an important and safe gathering place. What vision do you have to recreate a similar environment for community connectivity?
I think it’s important to perhaps add green spaces and perhaps centres that people can go that is a safe gathering place. Victoriavilla was mistreated and neglected for a number of years. I think if we focus our attention on this area and encourage businesses to come here or set up shot in this area would be a good start. We need to give people areas they can be safe. Perhaps setting up a resource area might be a good start.
I am making a commitment to ensure that the FW BIA gets the attention it deserves. The City hasn’t done that for a long time.
Matthew Villella-Candidate At Large