Ottawa commissioner candidate Tom Aussem

Name: Tom Aussem

Age: 49

Years of residency in district: I was born and raised in Ottawa. I moved in 2000 and returned in 2008 and have lived here since.

Occupation: Owner of Awesome Ottawa Tours and Skydiving Instructor

Previously elected positions: None

Contact information for voters: aussem4comish@gmail.com

Why have you decided to run for commissioner and what major goals do you plan to work towards?

I remember Ottawa when businesses were leaving and unemployment was high. Downtown Ottawa of the 1980s was a “concrete jungle” of empty storefronts. Beginning in the 1990s, when I worked with Main Street Ottawa, an economic turnaround began. Over the past 20 years, a resurgence of pride has continued under the direction of Mayor Eschbach. In light of his retirement, I am running for commissioner to continue the success and pride that has returned to Ottawa.

What sets you apart from your opponents?

As the owner of Awesome Ottawa Tours, I’ve researched every up and down our city has seen. Inactivity by our city government would lead to another local recession. My work as an entrepreneur and small business owner of a tourism based business gives me the knowledge and insight needed to continue Ottawa on the path that has been forged over the past 20 years. I’ve also served on the Zoning Board of Appeals for the past 5 years, giving me experience with the process of city government and knowledge of the municipal code.

Do you feel there is a fair balance of focus between attracting visitors to Ottawa and maintaining a solid, quality life for residents? If not, which way should the scale tip?

When a city creates an attractive environment for tourists the community quality of life for residents increases also. Both go hand in hand.

On a scale of A to F, how would you rate the current city council’s handling of the budget? If low, where do you feel the city could do a better job of cutting expenditures or finding new revenue?

Ottawa operates with a balanced budget but fixed costs are going to rise drastically in the coming years. The general fund will be stressed because of this. A new approach needs to be implemented to remain balanced. Future growth and tourism can bring in more revenue but, those coffers take time to fill. I’d give the current City Council a B but that grade could fall quickly in the next few years without cuts to the general fund.

What are your current thoughts on the city’s proposed waterfront development plan? How important will forward momentum on that project be during your term?

Are you supportive of Jackson Street being turned into a plaza? If not, what are your reservations? If so, what do you hope to see at the site?

I support the development of Jackson Street as a pedestrian plaza. Research shows that community open space is good for public health, promotes civic pride and sparks economic development. This project is in the beginning stages and the community is encouraged to give input to create a space that we can all enjoy.

What are your thoughts on the ongoing Illinois & Michigan Canal rewatering?

The re-watering of the Illinois & Michigan Canal is a huge economic driver for Ottawa. This project extends the northern boundary of our commercial downtown by three blocks. This opens up commercial and residential opportunities as well as green/park space. The project was started with the volunteer efforts of the Army Corp of Engineers in 2018. There is no hurry to finish this effort as fundraising and options for funds, outside of the city general fund, continue.

Would you support a 1 percent downtown sales tax to support future development and maintenance downtown? Why or why not?

The one percent downtown sales tax would disproportionally affect bars and restaurants. Their input should be heavily weighed in considering this measure. I would support it with merchant support, if the funds raised were used for marketing and if the results of that marketing could be measured.

Of the topics discussed at the city’s “Top 10” town meeting in October, which one or two are you strongly in support of and what do you plan to do to help achieve their success?

My number one goal is to see the Central School waterfront developed with a health and wellness facility (YMCA). The amphitheater, harbor and green space are vital to our future but can be completed over a longer time frame. I will also work with a private investor who is interested in commercial development at our waterfront location. I also strongly believe our future depends on retaining our young citizens. I would propose the creation of a panel of local schools and business owners to discuss our options for retaining our workforce which is our children. The public improvement projects would also help as research shows that younger generations are attracted to open space, new restaurants/retail and lively public space.

How many city council meetings or town meetings (i.e. Jackson Street Plaza discussion, top 10 Ottawa goals meeting, etc.) have you attended recently?

I’ve missed one Zoning Board meeting in five years (board meets monthly). I’ve attended two Jackson Street Plaza meetings and approximately 10 city council meetings in the past 12 months. I encourage everyone to take advantage of the council meeting minutes available on the city website (along with video).

What are your thoughts on the city’s current lineup of events? Should more be added, if so what kind? Should others be canceled?

I think the city has a strong lineup of city events. Riverfest needs to be revamped or scrapped as it is our most poorly attended. I would also support more culturally diverse events to be added to our current lineup.

How do you expect the discussion regarding pensions to affect Ottawa in the near future?

Both payroll and pensions are major concerns to our balanced budget in the coming years. I don’t have enough knowledge of negotiations at this time to answer more specifically.

Other than for family or health reasons, why would you leave your position mid-term?

If elected by the citizens of Ottawa, I would not betray their confidence and leave office before the end of my term.