[thistleclub]

Fred Eisenberger: On Running for Mayor
(The Hamiltonian, Jan 3 2014)

Clr. McHattie recently registered as a mayoral candidate and is apparently beginning a consultative process to finalize his platform. Although Mayor Bratina has not formally registered, he is expected to. Some speculate that if you do run, it may split the vote which will bolster the chances of the incumbent, if he does run. Does this give you any cause for pause? You had previously indicated that you would also be running. Is your resolve still the same?

Thank you for the question Diane. I will reiterate my previous comment to you... ”Now more than ever, our city needs strong leadership, clear vision and a well developed plan, along with the ability to collaborate effectively, build positive relationships with all of our institutions, organizations and other levels of government to build pride and confidence in our community and its people. I have been encouraged many, many times over the past few years to give the important position of Mayor of the city of Hamilton serious consideration , and I am. My focus has always been to build a clean, green and prosperous city that will once again embrace innovation, ambition and compassion to the benefit of all the diverse people that make up our city. I am consulting broadly on all of this throughout the community. I thank all of those that are sending my notes of encouragement and I look forward to my final decision in the coming ,months. I will be sure to keep all of the media posted......”. Let me add the following:

“My consultations in the broader community the past year or more has gone very, very well and has been very informative. . I have learned much from my time as Mayor and as the Chief Executive officer and President of the Canadian Urban Institute ( an organization dedicated towards building sustainable, liveable cities in Canada and throughout the world) and from the many citizens and leaders I have conferred with over the past 4 years. I look forward to filing the nomination papers in the near future and then let the voters decide who has the best experience, passion and ability to lead our city forward.”

I wish the Hamiltonian and all of your viewers and subscribers a healthy and prosperous 2014.

Cheers

Fred Eisenberger