Guthrie said Farbridge is "running on her record" but it is "not a really great record to run on." The big screen flashed up the names Walmart, Urbacon, and Costco. The audience gave a knowing, collective sigh at names that are synonymous with development controversies in recent years.

"Understand this," Guthrie urged. "Once Guelph begins adopting her worship's continued and future legacy schemes, the city will be too financially and resourcefully involved to turn back."

One of those legacy schemes referred to is adding to Guelph's parklands by clearing out a strip-mall along Wellington Street. Guthrie indicated that numerous small business owners will loss their businesses as a result.

"Listen to me very carefully," he said. "Karen Farbridge operates the bulldozer to demolish your business; I bring the shovel to help you dig the first hole so you can pour the foundation for your business to succeed."

While many would like to have new libraries, non-stop transit, vast parks and a host of other amenities, Guelph can not afford such things, he said.

He added that it is time to remove the "Guelph Factor" for developers — Guelph's earned reputation as a place where development delays, legal fees, challenges, and obstacles are factored into development plans and budgets. Getting rid of it would open Guelph to more economic opportunities, he said.

A better Guelph, Guthrie added, is one focused on providing cost effective core services, that avoids costly errors, and "treats hard earned money with respect."

"Why don't we just try to deliver the small things efficiently before we tackle the global issues we already pay taxes on?" he asked.

In concluding his speech, Guthrie urged his supporters to donate to his campaign.

"There might even be enough to chip in for pizza for the movers on October 28th helping them clear her stuff out of my office," he said in a parting jab at Farbridge.

The election will be held Oct. 27. Visit www.abetterguelph.ca to learn more about Guthrie's campaign.

roflanagan@guelphmercury.com