Thanks for stopping by!

I am a semi-retired business owner who has spent the past 40 years managing and owning Transportation and Logistics companies based in Barrie. After moving to Barrie in 1980, I quickly discovered that it was one of Ontario’s best-kept secrets. It didn’t take long to decide that this was the place where we wanted to put down roots and raise our two sons. It is a decision that I do not regret. My success was a result of earning the trust and respect of our clients, employees, and suppliers. I intend to continue that philosophy in my role as Councillor so that all stakeholders are heard and represented. Barrie has been good to my family and me. It's time to give back. 

Because it matters. 

It matters because with growth comes problems and opportunities. How they are dealt with will decide the future of our great city.

It matters that the city's official plan is controlled, fiscally sound, and socially responsible.

It matters that we have a strong and vibrant downtown core.

It matters that those who have supported and built this city be listened to.

It matters that solutions be implemented to assist those less fortunate become self-sufficient. 

It matters that better employment opportunities exist locally. 

It matters that you receive value for your property tax dollars and that they are spent wisely on the needs of all, rather than the wants of a few.

Safe neighbourhoods, clean, well-maintained parks, and pothole-free roads should be a priority for any candidate. Below are just some of the things that I will work on your behalf to achieve.

• Studies show that more than 75% of those who are homeless suffer from mental health and/or drug & alcohol addiction issues. The City, County, and Province must increase efforts and funding to deal with this escalating problem now! It is good to "care" but better to "cure." Additional programs and creative solutions must be initiated to assist those who are able to seek employment. Our contract with the County must be ensure that Barrie receive its fair share of the funding it requires and  a stronger voice in how funds are distributed.

• Our Bylaw department must be empowered to be more proactive and enforce existing bylaws when they see issues and not have to wait until someone actually calls in a complaint. Just imagine if our other services such as Fire and Police had the same policy. 

• The Downtown core is the heart of any city and defines its unique character. A vibrant and healthy one is what makes good cities great. A struggling and unhealthy one has the reverse effect. We are fortunate to have ours on the waterfront and to have a hard-working group of business owners and associations working diligently to keep it flourishing. It is critical that our historic Downtown continues to improve, grow and thrive in order to reach its full potential. Downtown is a true reflection of the entire city and should be a destination for its citizens and our out of town guests. Please support it!

• Affordable housing is now only a dream for too many people. We must find more ways to  cut the red tape and reduce the time frame that it takes for developers to bring homes to market.  Land that is ready to build on sits empty for too many years while the due diligence (red tape) process is completed. This decreases the supply while the demand continues to go up. This, combined with the fact that developers spend tens (or hundreds) of millions of dollars to buy property with no return for years drastically increases their financing costs and they have no choice but to increase the cost of their homes accordingly. Certainly due diligence is necessary to ensure that projects meet standards to protect consumers, but why does it take 10 years or more to do it? 

• The best way you can help is to trust me with your vote. 
• Spread the word! If you agree with my views, feel free to tell your friends and neighbours. 
• Lawn signs work! If you would be so kind as to allow one on your property, please let me know and I will gladly get one to you.
• Running for any political office is an expensive venture. The cost of signs, brochures, social media, office rent etc can add up quickly. If you wish to donate, please contact me at craig@electnixonward2.com

Everyone has something that matters to them. I would like to hear about what issues mean the most to you.

Please email me at craig@electnixonward2.com and share your views or thoughts. They matter.

Thank you!

Craig Nixon