Something exciting is coming to Hess Village! 
Last night I had the pleasure of meeting Shane Trapp and Bill at Mactini Bar Shane and Bill are the owners of the forthcoming Behind The Green Door restaurant in Hess Village, and hearing about the vision they’re bringing to downtown Hamilton.
Every time someone takes the risk of opening a new independent business, they’re making an investment not only in themselves, but in our city.
They create jobs. They bring people into our neighbourhoods. They fill storefronts, support surrounding businesses and give Hamilton more of the character that makes people want to live, work and spend time here.
As a candidate for Mayor, I believe City Hall needs to be a partner to our small businesses and entrepreneurs, not another obstacle they have to overcome.
That means making municipal processes easier to navigate, supporting vibrant commercial districts, investing in safe and welcoming streets, and listening directly to the people actually operating businesses in our city.
Hess Village has been part of Hamilton’s identity for generations, and seeing entrepreneurs continuing to invest in its future gives me tremendous optimism about what this neighbourhood can become.
A strong Hamilton needs a strong local economy, and a strong local economy starts with people willing to take an idea, take a chance and open the door.
Congratulations Shane and Bill. I’m looking forward to seeing what’s Behind The Green Door. 
Scarlett Gillespie for Mayor of the City of Hamilton