I was very surprised as I was running against three incumbents, and considered my task of coming up from Councillor to Alderman to be a real challenge.

Writing a letter to the constituents clearly stating my position on each of the important issues, and visiting and talking to people in their homes.

No question about it, living and working in the heart of the town helps to keep me in touch with the people and the pulse of the town.

The Corporation is an elected body of nine people who get together to share concepts and build consensus. The group?s mandate is to make decisions for the betterment of the town.

Leadership plays a critical role in this process. It is very important that the leader is able to listen and facilitate in a balanced, fair and honest way; and at the same time know how to keep the group motivated and on track. Mariea accomplishes this difficult role remarkably well, and I am very pleased to be part of her team.

There are many elements involved in the successful running of a town. The Corporation is organised into committees which have specific responsibilities towards this end.

As chairman of the Wharfs and Parks Committees, my primary goal is to see that the waterfront and parks of the town are well run in the short term, and well planned for optimal utility and benefit to the town in the medium and long term.

As a member of the Finance Committee, I am able to participate in finding solutions to some of the other important challenges facing the town.

These are solving the sewage problem, safety of the town?s streets which entails implementation of traffic calmers, and the additional safety issues of police presence and fire protection.

The ferries will make all the difference to our transportation infrastructure. The new larger ferry (123 feet) is due to be in service well before the end of this season and we are very grateful to the government for the commuter service that this vessel will provide. Minister Brown has done St. George?s a great service with the fast ferry service.

Tourism looks as if it will remain fairly static.

Definitely. St. George?s as a living town is an historic treasure, and World Heritage status greatly helps this historic focus.

Inclusive, team player, I like creative solutions, not afraid to take risks, always take ownership of a problem.