Jane on the Issues

CREATING A VIBRANT, LIVEABLE CITY CENTRE WHILE PROTECTING SURROUNDING MATURE NEIGHBOURHOODS

As more people move to Edmonton, the requirement for housing and transportation will continue to intensify. Jane remains committed to protecting the character of established residential neighbourhoods. At the same time, Jane will support high-density neighbourhoods in the downtown core. Residential development in the downtown warehouse district and along arterial roadways will create a more vibrant downtown and accommodate Edmonton’s population growth. Jane’s support for the south LRT extension will ensure that commuters can travel quickly into the downtown or to the U. of A. without the need for expanded roadways. She will continue to support investment in the LRT to help address traffic congestion and protect our environment.

Jane’s Commitment:
• Protect the character and integrity of established single-family neighbourhoods
• Support the development of high-density neighbourhoods in the city centre, e.g. warehouse district, The Quarters
• Continue to support a transit-oriented development strategy including ongoing LRT expansion – eliminating the need to expand roadways through central neighbourhoods
• Maintain the beauty of our river valley

ENSURING THE SAFETY OF WARD 4 RESIDENTS

Protecting the safety of Ward 4 residents remains a key priority for Jane. Essential services such as police and fire protection form the backbone of safe and secure neighbourhoods. In 2006, Jane supported a 11.1% increase in the Edmonton police budget.

Jane’s Commitment:
• Continue to build a stronger police presence on the streets and in parks
• Focus on crime prevention through community policing
• Build upon initiatives such as the Action on Violence Committee

ENSURING FULL VALUE FOR YOUR TAX DOLLARS

Jane has remained vigilant to ensure that residents received full value for their tax dollars. In keeping with her focus on core services, she supported an increased budget for snow removal, emergency response and transportation. Her support of a 10-year infrastructure plan will ensure the upgrade of aging city infrastructure through ongoing capital investment. Strong leadership demands that infrastructure maintenance and replacement not be shifted onto the backs of future generations.

Jane’s Commitment:
• Continue to focus on the “core services” that taxpayers expect
City Hall to provide – an effective police force, responsive emergency
services, safe drinking water, and clean and safe parks
• Upgrade aging infrastructure such as roads, sidewalks, and sewers
• Enhance services that make Edmonton an enjoyable winter city,
e.g. snow removal
• Maintain competitive property and business taxes

PROMOTING EDMONTON’S ECONOMIC GROWTH

Edmonton’s economy has led other Canadian cities in growth over the past several years. A well-educated workforce, a strategic geographic location and a positive business climate have helped Edmonton to secure the economic benefits of resource-related investment in northern Alberta. Jane’s support of Edmonton Economic Development has ensured a targeted economic development strategy that further diversified Edmonton’s economic base.

Jane’s Commitment:
• Work with neighbouring municipalities to ensure that the Capital region, through coordinated regional planning, remains the “first choice” for future resource-related investment and industrial development in Alberta
• Support Edmonton Economic Development’s key areas of focus:
- Industry and cluster development
- Labour attraction
- Edmonton Research Park
- Edmonton’s image
• Enhance Edmonton’s position as a transportation hub, distribution and service centre
• Support ongoing enhancements to the Edmonton International Airport