JOE KNEISZ (2014 election)

I am seeking your support for a seat on the next town council. I believe my diverse background and experience will prove to be an asset in working for the people of Fort Frances.
I retired after 31 years of service from the Winnipeg Health Sciences Centre as a registered psychiatric nurse therapist. My accomplishments include numerous recognitions of achievement, in addition to receiving the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Medal for my contribution to public life.
I have developed, owned, and operated several successful businesses, including a local family consulting practice in Fort Frances for families of children diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental disorder.
I also recently completed the Association of Municipalities of Ontario’s program for public office.
In terms of my experience, I’ve actively participated on numerous boards and advisory committees provincially and nationally, and have volunteered on several local committees, including the Children’s Complex Advisory Committee and the Sustainability Steering Committee.
I also just accepted a seat on the Association for Community Living Fort Frances board of directors.
I work and live in Fort Frances with my wife, Donna, three stepchildren, and an old cat.
There are many important issues affecting this community at the present time. It is simply impossible to foresee what lies ahead.
If elected, I would propose the following few initiatives, with the primary goals of job creation, increasing needed revenue, and addressing issues affecting our youth and our senior citizens:
•actively canvassing to attract new viable businesses to relocate to Fort Frances (for long-term sustainability, it is imperative that we diversify);
•re-opening discussion and debate regarding an entertainment complex, including a casino, shops, and five-star dining to be located on the waterfront;
•meet with high school students to gain their perspective on programs they might be interested in attending should they be available locally at Confederation College;
•enter into discussions to explore program expansion possibilities with Confederation College; and
•developing affordable “Guest Home” concept or assisted living for seniors in the district (seniors make up the fastest-growing age group and this trend is expected to continue for the next several decades due to an increase in life expectancy and the aging of the “baby-boom” generation).
If elected. I promise to:
•help maintain and improve the municipality;
•ensure that town council can—and does—provide the services citizens require;
•participate in creating and implementing policies that are fair, equitable, and enforceable; and
•make myself readily available to meet with and actively listen to concerns and ideas of citizens
I am committed to looking after the best interests of the citizens of Fort Frances. I hope to bring a fresh perspective to council.
I stand for change, transparency, and teamwork. I believe in the strength of partnerships, forming not only strong alliances with the citizens of our town but the citizens of the First Nation communities that contribute to the town’s economy.
I ask for your vote.