North Bay’s mayoral race is growing.
Jason Maclennan is adding his hat to the ring, announcing that he’s seeking Council’s top job.
The communications director with North Bay Pride has lived in North Bay since 2005 and currently works with Canada Post.
He says transparency is a key plank.
“I was in the closet hiding my true authentic self for many years, but when I finally came out of the closet and was transparent that I was openly gay, the world for me was a better place,” Maclennan says. “It is my belief, you cannot be hiding your deals from the community when you are in public office.
He says the city has grown and done well but claims several groups have been excluded including the homeless, low-income residents, small business owners and seniors.
“I have noticed, the city council talks about the new businesses who come to town, but they never talk about the businesses we have lost or moved out of town, but this would be part of being transparent,” he says.
Maclennan says community collaboration is missing.
“We need seniors to tell us their needs, we need places like West Ferris to tell us their needs because it will be different than Airport Hill. We need advisory committees that are endorsed by city council,” he says.
Maclennan also says government is about creating opportunities for everyone.
“That is what is missing, that is what we will change,” he says.
Maclennan says his nomination papers will be filed in the next few weeks.
Peter Chirico, President of the North Bay and District Chamber of Commerce and councillor Johanne Brousseau, chair of Community Services, are also running for mayor.
