Municipality of North Cowichan Candidate
Q1. Please tell us a bit about yourself and why you are running.
A: I was born in Chemainus being a third generation citizen of our Valley. I attended BCIT graduating with a Diploma in Business Administration. My first Career was in Banking ending up being a Manager for 5 years in Nanaimo with the TD Bank and then moving on to Credit Unions working for Island Saving at one time as Manager in Mill Bay. After my banking career I worked for the Province of BC firstly with the Ministry of Finance and then Provincial Revenue. I was also an executive in Component 1201 in the BCGEU as well as shop steward for over 500 employees.
I feel strongly that the electorate needs need to be listened to at all times not just at election time. I am a specialist at analyzing financial statements and look forward to seeing a cost cutting measures implemented.
Q2. The community survey results placed a high priority on sustainability, in particular on protecting our watersheds, water supply and water quality, as well as on creating a more sustainable local economy. If elected, please describe what your approach would be to those issues.
A: I do not presume to be an expert on water conservation and the protection of our watersheds. For this reason I would rely on the professionals such as the Regional Watershed Management Committee.Our rivers are the lifeblood of this valley and their protection is a high prioity and as a Councillor my priority is to provide the proper support by way of funding and inclusive consultation with each stakeholder. As for sustaining our local economy we need to protect our farmland which the Valley is famous for by way of wineries, organic crops and much more. Touirsm needs to be promoted for the whole Valley and not just selected areas.
Q3. The survey results indicated citizens want to see more consultation and accountability between elected officials and their constituents. If elected, please describe what your approach would be to those issues.
A: Presently in my discussions with the electorate there is a frustration about who to contact about issues and lots of times a pushback from the Bureaucrats. I am a strong believer that I am elected to represent the citizens of North Cowichan and my job is to be a liason between them and the Bureaucrats. This can be for a simple question or to help understanding bylaws as well as making the whole experience in dealing with North Cowichan easier.Those who know me know I am passionate for doing what is right and not afraid to fight for common sense.
Q4. What is your position on municipal tax rates and the corresponding level and allocation of services?
A: I strongly feel taxes can be kept to at least the rate of inflation. I think politicians sometimes raise taxes just because they can without a lot of thought in it. We need to analyze where we can save and stop the rampant waste thus causing our recent out of control tax increases. We need to take a serious look at spending huge amounts of money on special interest groups especially around election time. It is important that a Municipality provide adequate clean water, garbage recycling services and much more making our lives easier. It is not our mandate to spend 5% of our tax revenue on artifical grass for a soccer field.
Q5. What is your vision for this area, and how would getting elected help achieve it?
A: We have a very special environment here in the Cowichan Valley that most other Municipalties are envious of. My vision for the Valley is to have a vibrant economy creating employment , low cost housing and seniors housing. This can be achieved with an honest, trustworthy Government dealing with what is best for the people at all times.
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