Yellowknife’s future economy will depend on the way we manage challenges and welcome opportunities. We have some big challenges ahead, like the closure of the diamond mines. However, there are also some great opportunities, like mine remediation, expanding tourism and more post-secondary options. Navigating these challenges and opportunities will require a focused and deliberate plan.
During my last four years of working for the people of Yellowknife:
- I was proud to open the new Visitors Center on September 12 – which includes a great non-market art gallery.
- I championed important changes to the Zoning Bylaw to make our City work better for businesses. Changes increased areas where businesses could operate (like day cares; agriculture; etc) and allowed for the opportunity to make more complete neighbourhoods.
- I supported the creation and implementation of a “Way Finding Strategy.” New kiosks were built around town and a visitor’s guide with a focus on local Indigenous heritage and history was recently created.
- I supported the signing of a memorandum of understanding with Aurora College to help them transition to a Polytechnic (University/College hybrid) and have an improved campus in Yellowknife which will bring more students to our city and support economic diversification.
Moving forward, together:
- To make sure we keep making the most of our resources, I will support the development of a Visitor Center governance model.
- As returning mayor, I would champion the establishment of a Hotel Levy that will fund a Destination Marketing Organization (DMO). This is an opportunity to raise funds (outside of taxes) so that we can market Yellowknife to more tourists.
- I will work with the City to reduce the burden on residents by updating the Business License Bylaw to include things like making the license valid for more than one year.
- Because this has the power to transform our City, I will continue working with Aurora College to transition into a Polytechnic (University and College) and develop an improved campus in Yellowknife.
- I will support the implementation of the City’s Economic Development Strategy and the joint economic development strategy between the Yellowknives Dene First Nation (YKDFN) and the City.
- I will champion better access to more waterfront in the Old Town area which includes working with the Federal and Territorial government to explore alternate locations or ways to open up their lots on McDonald Drive.
- I would support a feasibility study to look at building a “Rental Shack” on Frame Lake to be rented out by a local business or not-for-profit (similar model as the Wild Cat). The Rental Shack would offer recreation equipment like canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, skates, skis, snowshoes, etc. A great opportunity for tourists and residents to get active downtown.