THUNDER BAY - Despite its challenges, mayor Keith Hobbs says the city has a lot for which to be proud.
In his annual state of the city address Monday night, Hobbs touched on everything from closing the city’s infrastructure gap to the work being done to eradicate homelessness and meet Thunder Bay’s racism head on. On racism, Hobbs quoted from Martin Luther King saying there comes a time when people have to take a position that might not be the most popular or safe but because it’s the right thing to do.
“As a community, we need to evolve this conversation and rally together to build civic pride together and heal our community spirit. This can only be done through respect for all and a united commitment to move forward together and not allow the damaging effects of racism in our community,” Hobbs said.
On growth, Hobbs said the city saw its best assessment year in 25 years last year. He also said that a major manufacturing company will be making an announcement soon.
“We have been working with a private company to land them in Thunder Bay and make their arrival seamless,” he said.
“This will mean hundreds of jobs for our city and region and help our economy grow.”
The city is currently compiling a list of shovel-ready projects it has in order to apply for expected federal infrastructure money as soon as it’s announced, which could include the proposed event centre.
Hobbs said the city is also looking into partnering with the DSSAB and private sector to build more social housing, which could include using city land.
“I have asked our executive management team to put their minds to how best to facilitate the work of the DSSAB and to expedite the construction of new social and affordable housing,” he said.
