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On May 4, Elliot Lake homebuilder Richard Laurin became the first unofficial candidate to register for a run at one of the six councillor seats on city council in the Oct. 24, municipal election.
He was born and raised in the city, went to school here with a learning disability and was forced to leave town in 1992 to find work after the mines closed down.
He chose the building trade where he's been self-employed since he was 18.
Laurin says his business experience would be a benefit on council.
"I see many good things for the community," he said. "I believe in putting personal opinions aside and making decisions based on the outcome (they would have) to the community."
"I have not been pleased with the nonsense that has gone on over the last few years. I think our acting council could have done so much better than they have," he added.
Laurin wants to create parks and job training for youth and believes the citizens need to be heard.
He's 53, with two young children and two older children.
Laurin wants to provide more guidance to the CAO's office.
He says our roads are in dire need of repairs and wants to increase economic growth and lower property taxes.
He thinks it's time for change and looks forward to more people running for council. Attracting more industry to induce job growth is another of his goals. Laurin is planning on holding a meet and greet at the Collins Hall to hear what the people say.
Laurin acknowledged there will be a learning curve, but he's a fast learner. He believes there's a successful resolution for all issues.