Smart Growth. Strong Community. A Clear Vision for LaSalle.

Property Taxes:
Balancing Today’s Needs with Tomorrow’s Vision

Property taxes are consistently the number one issue that comes up in conversations with my fellow community members. Whether at a local event, chatting with neighbours, or sitting in committee meetings, it’s clear that the rising cost of living – including property taxes – is top of mind for many. I understand and share these concerns, and I believe we must approach this issue with both empathy and responsibility.

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Being fiscally responsible isn't just about tightening the belt; it's about making smart, forward-thinking choices that respect every taxpayer’s dollar. As inflation and global tariffs continue to drive up costs for goods and services, we must work harder than ever to find efficiencies within our systems. This means questioning outdated processes, embracing innovation, and ensuring that every investment delivers real value to the community.

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To do this effectively, listening is key. I place a high value on engaging with residents to better understand what matters most – whether it's improved infrastructure, access to green spaces, or more support for local businesses. True progress happens when decisions reflect the real, lived needs of the people who call LaSalle home.

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Above all, I believe in being mindful of the bigger picture. The decisions we make today about how we manage and allocate property tax revenue will shape our community's future. It’s not just about the bottom line – it’s about sustainability, resilience, and creating a community that continues to thrive for generations to come.

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That’s why it’s also important that we ensure every dollar set aside in reserves is working as hard as it can for the people of LaSalle. By identifying municipally appropriate investment opportunities, we can make sure that funds held in reserve are earning at their highest responsible potential – without compromising safety or stability. This kind of strategic financial stewardship helps us stretch resources further, reduce future tax pressure, and build a stronger foundation for long-term community priorities.

Attracting New Business:
Building a Destination, Not Just a Stop Along the Way

LaSalle is full of potential – not just as a place to live, but as a vibrant destination where families, entrepreneurs, and visitors want to spend their time. One of our greatest assets in realizing this vision is embracing the LaSalle Landing waterfront. By encouraging thoughtful development of this area, we can transform it into a lively, family-friendly hub that draws people in, encourages them to stay, and sets us apart from surrounding communities. This isn’t just about beautification – it’s about economic development that builds a stronger, more connected LaSalle.

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I believe that part of this vision should include creating accessible, rentable space for small businesses right along the waterfront. Whether it’s pop-up shops, artisan vendors, or seasonal food stalls, providing flexible, affordable spaces allows local entrepreneurs to grow while offering residents and visitors more to experience. Supporting small business not only keeps dollars local – it adds character and energy to our public spaces.

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We also need to look strategically at the Front Road corridor and consider how we can expand retail and dining options in a way that complements what’s already here. With a focus on family-friendly venues – such as cafés, independent shops, or casual dining – we can create a walkable, welcoming environment that encourages people to explore, gather, and stay longer.

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Lastly, the development of the new hotel at the Shoppes at Heritage Plaza (Phase 2) opens up a significant opportunity. With increased tourism and overnight stays, now is the time to attract unique retail and dining options that enhance the visitor experience and give guests – and residents – something they can’t find anywhere else.

By connecting our assets and planning with intention, we can turn LaSalle into a thriving destination that supports local business and benefits the entire community.

Traffic Management:
Prioritizing Safety and Smart Growth

As our community continues to grow, managing traffic effectively has become more important than ever. One of the top concerns I hear from residents is speeding in residential areas – a serious issue that impacts the safety and peace of our neighbourhoods. Whether it’s children playing outside, people walking their dogs, or families biking together, everyone deserves to feel safe on their own street. That’s why we need targeted traffic calming measures and increased enforcement where it matters most, to reduce speeding and make our residential areas safer for everyone.

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We also need to focus on improving traffic safety at key intersections, especially those that have become busier due to development or increased use over time. This could mean adding advanced signage, improving lighting, redesigning crosswalks, or reviewing signal timing – all practical changes that can make a big difference in reducing accidents and keeping both drivers and pedestrians safe.

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With new developments bringing more homes, businesses, and visitors to LaSalle, we must also proactively manage the influx of traffic these changes bring. Smart, forward-thinking traffic planning will help prevent congestion and frustration before it starts. This includes updating traffic flow models, considering new access routes, and ensuring that infrastructure keeps pace with growth. By taking a balanced, safety-first approach to traffic management, we can support our growing community while maintaining the quality of life LaSalle residents value.