Dear Editor,

Now that the Owen Sound Municipal Election is gearing up for the October election, there is important information that candidates need to provide us in making our decisions.

First though, congratulations to the men and women who will be candidates for Owen Sound City Council in the fall election. Thank you for caring about our community and considering your own involvement in the political life of it. Special Thanks to Jim McManaman and Arlene Wright who have both contributed in many ways to this city and will be retiring from City Council in Oct.

Here's the kind of information that will be of assistance to us. Voters need to know candidates' positions on a broad range of topics. These include (in no particular order): the future of the Harbour and Adjacent Area, Fire Services, Downtown and specifically, the Vacancy Rebates and the Riverfront Project, Candidates' Community Commitment and Interest, Economic and Residential Development, Tom Thompson Art Gallery, and the old Court House Future along with other vacant property. Equally as important, we need to know your experience: in our community, as a volunteer, and on community committees.

Good luck to all the candidates. During the course of the election I hope to hear your responses to different community issues. I am looking forward to an interesting municipal election!

Sincerely,

Donna Beatty
Owen Sound