Streets and Buildings Names for Political Legacies and Future Perks

Van Bynen Boulevard - it could happen

One thing that has always irked me is the naming of buildings, landmarks and streets after politicians like it's some kind of sacred right. If I'm elected, I will will propose that no naming of buildings or streets would be allowed until 20 years after death. One needs only look at the Ray Twinney Centre as an example wherein council voted in the community centre name even after the former Newmarket Mayor had been charged (and in all likelihood about to be convicted when he died) with embezzling the town. Outrageous decision. And arguably, those not knowing the sordid history might equate Councillor Jane Twinney with being connected to our town's history somehow. The Barrie native who married into the name is not. In fact, she even moved out of the ward she represents recently.

Tom Taylor Trail is but one town asset named for the former mayor

One reason is that in some cases the name lives on beyond their political lives and gives them special status in the private or non-profit / charitable sectors. Tom Taylor Trail lives on to assist John Taylor throughout his political career through continual branding, and as well Tom Taylor who is still very active on boards and social service connected organizations that access government and public fund donations, such as Habitat for Humanity York Region and Neighbourhood Network.

I have no issue with those wishing to purchase a street name such as candidate Bob Kwapis did, if they can afford to do that, and if having their name on a street makes them feel good. The problem with that though, is some may believe he "earned' his name on the street sign when he bought it. Still, if the process were changed and street name buying became a branded option, we could perhaps raise town funds through implementing such a program. Right now it may appear he 'earned" it and that may be an unfair advantage in elections. So we need a new, transparent process.

Why don't they name this neglected historical asset on Tom Taylor Trail after themselves?

But for politicians there should be no more naming things after yourself or friends or pet projects - like Belinda's Place where one is very hard pressed to see a connection between Belinda Stronach and homeless single women...but it's that all important facade of a legacy you see. Most people have no idea she has no $ invested in this and that it was funded by public money. Just her name. I suppose to reward her for all the work she's done fighting for local homeless people. Er.

Integrity

I'm the breathe of fresh air this town council needs to help keep these characters in place and our town developing towards the best interests of its residents. I tell it like it is, something this town deserves to have as a representative of, and I have real fears about the direction of this town under this mayor and it is a key reason why I'm running. We need a native son in there to protect our town.

Building legacies - all $10 million came from public money

I'm Tom Pearson. I'm running for Ward 5 Councillor of Newmarket and I really do care. Do they?

Click here to access more of my plan and ideas.