I would like to see more businesses that give residents the option to shop, eat, access services and spend money within West St. Paul rather than having to leave the municipality. Restaurants, retail, medical and professional services, recreation and other businesses that serve our growing population can also help strengthen and diversify our commercial tax base. But where commercial development happens matters just as much as what is being built. Council needs to consider traffic, road capacity, servicing and the impact on nearby homes before approving development. I support expanding our commercial tax base, but it should be done thoughtfully and in locations that can support it without creating avoidable problems for surrounding neighbourhoods.

West St. Paul could benefit from thoughtfully planned commercial development that provides residents with more local services. This could include sit-down restaurants with patios, a grocery store, and retail such as hair and nail salons and specialty pet stores. We could also benefit from professional and essential services including dental care, expanded medical services, financial services, veterinary care, childcare, and automotive services. However, commercial development must be approached carefully. While an increased tax base is beneficial, it cannot come at the expense of residents' quality of life. Council must consider parking, traffic flow, public safety, noise, and impacts on surrounding neighbourhoods. Resident input must be considered. Appropriate separation between commercial and residential areas must remain a priority.