Peterborough is among the top 100 largest cities in Canada but it is also known for its small-town charm and community spirit.

Its success will come from thinking big while respecting the importance of community and ensuring the city interacts with its citizens on a human level. We need to bring function back to the city through good governance, civility and compassion.

Mike's Priorities

Building a Better Peterborough

We need to build on what makes Peterborough great. We need to fix what holds us back.  We need to have our "eyes up" to address our challenges with the future in mind.

Vision for Peterborough

Planning now for the future is essential. It means seeing Peterborough not just as it is, but what it can be five, 10, and 15 years into the future. Playing the long game must start today. We need foresight to lay the groundwork for the social and economic development our children will enjoy.

Vision for Peterborough

Imagine a Peterborough with

  • Expanded city boundaries that has attracted new industries resulting in an expanded tax base
  • Better coordination between city and community organizations to help the most vulnerable
  • Vibrant neighbourhoods, including a downtown with thriving restaurants and businesses, and world-class arts scene
  • Preferred destinations for sport, recreation, culture and nature 
  • More efficient delivery of city services
  • A better quality of life with more physicians and medical professionals fostering healthy living
  • Shared regional strategies for transportation, tourism and industry

In the short term, our vision means a council and city staff that are all rowing in the same direction.

Leadership is about bringing people together. Fractured city leadership cannot function effectively. We must rebuild relationships between staff and council, the city and the business community, the non-profit sector, the county… and the list goes on.

Peterborough needs a coordinated and collaborative effort that will lead to smart and sustainable decisions today that allow for growth tomorrow.  

My strong mayor power will be in building consensus and respecting the will of elected officials and the public that they serve.