City of Duncan Councillor Candidate
Website: www.votemartin.ca
Q1. Please tell us a bit about yourself and why you are running.
A: I am a politician for numerous reasons: as someone who is sometimes skeptical that our political system runs for the benefit of the people as a whole, I decided the best way for me to effect change (or in some cases non-change) was to become an ‘insider’ and be elected to office. It is also, generally, a joy to serve, whether it be as a city councillor, scout leader, volunteer with the homeless or United Way or with the local Legion. Not all agree with my various positions but it is very heart warming when you hear from those who appreciate your efforts, experience the respect of those who oppose your ideas and when I see the outcomes of my work and passion become reality in the community.
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 understand that One Cowichan’s main area of concern is local control of our watershed. I truly appreciate the passion of the position, especially given the last two years of drought, the concern of the Lake Cowichan residents with the possibility of the raising of the lake level and, of course, the possible detriment of our spawning salmon, an important aboriginal and regional resource. Although I agree that local governments and vested parties should have more influence/input in the activities of our watershed I am, as of yet, not confident that control should move away from the province. I worry that self-interested activists could come to control the watershed to the detriment of the many invested parties. It is truly a complex and important issue and I am open to debate.
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: It is very common for constituents to demand more consultation and accountability. Believe me, I often hear from my constituents, whether it be via the phone, email, or from my patients that visit me in my office. I often engage in vigorous and intelligent (normally, but not always) debate via letters to the editor in the local newspapers. I am a fairly regular blogger and sometimes seek engagement through that portal. The current council has engaged the public through both scientific and non-scientific surveys and have taken the data under advisement. Many under used opportunities for engagement currently exist. I would encourage public to attend council and Committee of the Whole meetings as there is scheduled opportunities for individuals to speak and ask questions, and we really appreciate the interest.
Q4. What is your position on municipal tax rates and the corresponding level and allocation of services?
A: A vibrant local economy is obviously important; after all, if people cannot afford to live here they will move away and those that remain will live without luxury. There must be a balance in all things and we must realize high paying jobs often involve resource development or those that live here working in the ‘new’ economies that involve significant time away from their families. We must ensure that those who work away have transit service to their planes/ferries and any resource development we do in the valley be done so with confidence that environmental and sustainability issues/concerns are adequately dealt with.
Q5. What is your vision for this area, and how would getting elected help achieve it?
A: Electing me, and voting for an amalgamation study would ensure that the investigative process is complete and honest. Electing me would ensure that someone on council would be dedicated to maintain focus on civic issues. And electing me would ensure that an occasionally loud and controversial voice would remain in the public eye along with many of the issues in our community. The rest of this essay can be found on my blog at votemartin.ca
Return to Duncan Candidates