Mark Bentz is hoping for a fifth term on Thunder Bay City Council.
Bentz made his intentions known Wednesday that he will be seeking re-election in October, joining Andrew Foulds, Brian Hamilton and Peng You as incumbents who intend to run again.
Bentz was first elected as Northwood Councillor in 2004 and served three terms before making a successful run as an At Large member in 2018.
“I would like to continue to put my knowledge and experience to work for the people of Thunder Bay,” said Bentz. “I will make policy decisions that are in the best long-term financial interests of the City with an eye on infrastructure renewal and enhancing the quality of life in our community. Investments in our physical and social infrastructure are a must if we are to control costs and make Thunder Bay an attractive place to live and work.”
Bentz was asked about the likelihood of a brand new council with Aldo Ruberto, Bill Mauro, Rebecca Johnson, Cody Fraser and Brian McKinnon all previously announcing that they won’t be running for re-election.
“Personally, I welcome anyone who is interested in politics to consider running,” Bentz told Acadia News. “The community is an important part of our democracy of course, and new voices and new ideas are always welcome.”
Bentz also wants to tackle the infrastructure deficit, which he says is between $20- and $30-million dollars short of what should be spent.
“That’s an important aspect because that really does increase our costs. The longer that we don’t take care of our infrastructure, the higher that the costs become,” Bentz noted.
Nomination papers need to be filed by Friday, August 19th at 2:00 p.m.
Election Day is Monday, October 24th with the four-year council term of office commencing on Tuesday, November 15th.
