Toastmasters – Revenue Ramblers

September 29, 2010

Let me begin by acknowledging the Esquimalt and Songhees First Nations in whose traditional territory we live and work.

I think most of you here today are from Victoria –

or at least from the Capital Region

This is a truly remarkable part of the world

there is so much to be thankful for …

and so much to be proud of

it is such a privilege to be mayor of this town

 – to be part of shaping the community I have called home for more than 30 years.

And while I am a fanatical cheerleader for Victoria

– I also recognize the challenges ahead

Yet, I want a city that is known, NOT for its challenges,

but for the compassionate and creative ideas

used to tackle those challenges

As Abraham Lincoln said:

“let not the likelihood of our success deter us from a cause that is just”

I have a vision for this city – and I don’t think it is unique

In fact I suspect it is the same vision held by many

My vision for Victoria is a vibrant and safe city.

A Victoria that is full of opportunities.

A city where young people can start a family,

and start a career

From strollers to scooters – a city for everyone

A City that gains strength from our diverse communities and cultures

Where we are social and environmental leaders –

pushing sustainability…

both in terms of the economy and the environment and social justice.

To have this provincial capital become a world class city

This is a grand vision –

but in my opinion, without such goals you go nowhere

I want to leave a community for my daughters

that is better tomorrow, than it is today  

such is the ancient Greek pledge

Vision is vital – but action is required

And this begs the question – how do we pay for all of this?

we talk about ending homelessness,

 or supporting a thriving arts community,

or the need for safe and accessible transit….

But only through a strong economy

–       thriving industry and business -

are we ever going to actualize these goals

What becomes abundantly clear

is that economic success

and social support go hand in hand

We need the strength of our economy

 to match the depths of our social conscience

That is why, the City of Victoria is embarking on a Economic

development strategy.

It is cliché but true - “Those that fail to plan, plan to fail”

Our economic strategy will include a Retail Recruitment and Retainment  plan, to help keep the downtown the economic backbone of the region

and we will have a Customer Service Strategy for the City of Victoria, because we want to help facilitate business, not put up road blocks.

I think all of you,  are here this morning

because you know we need to do more

– and you have the ideas and commitment to make that happen

I don’t assume to have the answers,

 but I do have the common sense to listen to those who do.

As Ben Franklin said during the revolutionary war –

“We must all hang together, or assuredly we shall all hang separately”

The context is certainly different today – but the meaning is the same

If we are to effect change,

we must take on the role of  actors,

and work together

 to make our time on the stage a success.