Two days after Prince George Mayor Lyn Hall announced he will not be seeking reelection, the city has its first candidate for mayor.
Prince George Chamber of Commerce CEO Todd Corrigall announced the start of his campaign at an event at Wood Innovation Park on Wednesday, surrounded by more than 50 supporters. Current city councillors Brian Skakun, Kyle Sampson and Terri McConnachie attended the announcement, as did Prince George-Valemount MLA Shirley Bond, School District 57 trustee Tim Bennett and former city councillors Cameron Stolz, Albert Koehler and Steve Sintich.
“As a tireless fighter for Prince George, a leader who believes we can always do more… I am pleased to announce I am running for mayor,” Corrigall said. “It’s time for Prince George to be heard.”
Corrigall said his campaign is focused on four key areas: a safe and livable community, respect for the taxpayers, local government that actually listens, and positive change through real leadership.
“I am not interested in lip service, but in action and positive change for our community,” he said. “Prince George is quickly becoming one of the highest-taxed jurisdictions in British Columbia.”
Corrigall said he was inspired to run after seeing the lack of leadership and consultation in the community over the past two years.
“I know the issues facing us are not small and not easy,” he said. “Too often the city has asked for our feedback, then ignored what we said.”
The cost overruns on the George Street parkade, a $760,000 park bathroom and a $250,000 ninja cross course at the Canfor Leisure Pool under construction downtown are examples of city council making decisions that didn’t respect the taxpayer, he said.
Corrigall said he challenged the city to find a five per cent tax saving without cutting staff, but the city didn’t respond.
Community safety is been a top concern for residents, but affordability is also important as young people and seniors are being squeezed out of the housing market, he added.
Corrigall has served as CEO of the chamber of commerce for the past five years, and previously served as the City of Prince George’s communications manager for six months. Corrigall left the position in January 2015, the same month former city chief administrative office Beth James departed, after the election which saw Hall take over as mayor.
Corrigall ran his own consulting business for 15 years, and spent time as the City of Lloydminster’s general manager of communications and marketing in Alberta.
Corrigall, who is originally from Toronto, met his wife, who is from Prince George, 18 years ago when he was living in Vancouver. He’s lived in the city off and on for the past 12 years.
Corrigall urged residents to go to his campaign website, www.corrigall4mayor.com, and take the online survey to provide information about the issues important to the community.
“I can’t do this alone, I need your support,” Corrigall said. “Let’s spread the message that Prince George is ready to lead.”
