Carrier pledges business-friendly approach in Prince George mayoral bid

A recurring theme of Carrier’s campaign is increasing public input into major civic projects. He believes residents should have a greater say before large expenditures are approved and has suggested referendums should be considered for significant projects.

“The people of Prince George are smart. They can make decisions,” he said. “We need more dialogue with the city about projects.”

Carrier also points to property taxes as a growing concern for residents. While he acknowledges tax reductions may not be immediately possible, he says city officials need to take a closer look at spending and budgeting.

He has also criticized the city’s development and permitting process, describing it as the worst he has seen in his 30 years in business. Carrier says slow permit approvals and bureaucratic delays are frustrating contractors and small business owners who work within Northern B.C.’s short construction season.

“It should not take seven months to open a business or get approvals moving,” he said. “We have to streamline the whole process.”

On downtown issues, Carrier says purchasing buildings alone will not solve challenges related to homelessness, mental health and addictions. He believes the city must push senior governments to take a larger role in addressing those concerns.

“The provincial and federal governments made this mess and we need them involved in the solutions,” he said.

If elected, Carrier says he would also introduce regular public forums with the mayor, allowing residents to bring concerns directly to City Hall.

“I want people to feel welcome at City Hall,” he said. “The more transparency we have and the more people are involved, the better decisions we’re going to make for Prince George.”

The municipal election is scheduled for October 17.

by Nick Dube

Carrier pledges business-friendly approach in Prince George mayoral bid

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