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Ed Valenti has officially submitted his name as a candidate for North Bay City Council in the October 24 municipal election.
Valenti was appointed to Council in September 2021 but he calls the last nine months "a great learning experience."
The realtor and active community volunteer says he is ready for a full term with the help of voters this time around. Valenti says, with the knowledge gained this term, his "hope is to bring a perspective to the City that will involve a more direct engagement with the issues we face.
"I would like to see the City take a greater role in dealing with homeless and vulnerable individuals, a topic that is on the minds of many. I recognize that there’s not a one-size fits all solution for everyone, but we need to do something, and not simply accept the current status. If that entails a type of ongoing task force that oversees and coordinates a collective effort, then that is one option to explore."
Valenti says such a task force could "enlighten the city on current measures, existing barriers, resourceful ideas, as well as how vulnerable individuals have been relocated from other regions. I believe a more hands-on role by the City would help mitigate the fears of children when they experience difficult encounters. Parents have become very concerned."
Valenti advises he is uneasy with targeted spending that may defer dollars from our roads budget.
"As identified by staff, we have a $27-million deficiency in available funds for roads, bridges and related items. As such, every dollar is important in fixing our roads."
Valenti also sees opportunity when it comes to the local tourism sector. "The City should pursue a more robust and self-directed investment in our tourism efforts. That includes increased financial support for community spearheaded events, our museums, and cultural institutions. With reasonable resources for volunteer groups, the city can benefit from their enthusiasm. The net result is a valuable outcome for a very moderate cost."
Ed Valenti joins Jamie Lowery as candidates for North Bay City Council. The deadline for nomination papers to run for mayor, city council or school boards is August 19 and candidates will be certified by 4:30 p.m. on August 22.
