Premier Ewart Brown's executive aide has put his name forward as common councillor in next week's elections for the Corporation of St. George's.

Jamahl Simmons, a former United Bermuda Party and National Liberal Party MP is planning a return to politics albeit on a less grand scale.

"I'm going for more of an entry-level position because at this time it would be better to learn the ropes, to get my feet wet," he said.

"I've had a lot of people approach me and say that I needed to get involved, and it really got me thinking."

He believes the biggest issue facing the Island is crime, and that the community of St. George's is not immune to it.

"The people would like to see an increased Police presence," he said. "I think the Police are doing a good job with what they have, but I think they need to work closer with the community."

The Corporation needs to form a stronger bond with St. George's residents as well, Mr. Simmons added.

"I think a lot of Bermudians feel separated from the political process. There's a disconnect there.

"I'd like to be in the community, raising issues, letting them know that they have a voice."

Mr. Simmons, Alfonso Harris, Steven Hollis, Eakin Carters McLaughlin, Renee Ming and George Sutherland are hoping to land one of five common councillor seats.

Meanwhile, St. George's Alderman Beau Evans intends to focus on the town's docks in his bid for re-election.

The current Wharf Committee chairman said that the Corporation and Bermuda Yacht Services are working to make yachting a third tourism pillar with hotels and cruise ships.

"We've not been written off," he said. "Those cruise ships would come back to us in a heartbeat."

For that to happen Government would have to widen Town Cut and legalise gambling on cruise ships among other things.

"I've heard the cost to widen the cut is around $30 million, which is half of what the Dockyard dock cost.

"We're saying let us help, let us participate. To me it's so obvious it's unbelievable. That $30 million will pay for itself very quickly."

Mr. Evans called the construction of a new hotel at the former Club Med site commendable, but said the hotel would not be a cure-all.

"We also need to encourage guest homes. Two or three of those would mean you'd have more people here all year round.

"The St. George's Club is always full. They use the tour boats and they use the restaurants and they buy things."

He also said that improved policing in the town would help the economy, and called for an improved ferry service to St. George's.

Mr. Evans will be defending his position as Alderman against Kirby Brackstone, Louis 'Red' DeSilva, Clarence Minors and Garth Rothwell.

There are only three spots available.

Voting will take place at St. George's Town Hall on Wednesday, between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Only those registered in the municipality of St. George's are allowed to vote.