Town of Ladysmith Councillor Candidate
Facebook: Thea for Ladysmith Town Council
Q1. Please tell us a bit about yourself and why you are running.
A: My name is Thea Melvin; I’m 43, married with 2 sons, aged 16 and 18. I was born and raised in Ladysmith, moved overseas for 5 years then moved to Victoria so my husband could finish school at UVIC ; coming back to settle in Ladysmith 13 years ago. I’ve worked for the RCMP in Nanaimo for almost 10 years; in 2006 I was honoured to represent Ladysmith/Cowichan on the Citizens Assembly for Electoral Reform and with that was educated on our electoral system and alternate systems and what the public thought about all of it, hence the double referendum....... I’m running for Council because I believe now is the time for a Positive change; for someone who wants to work FOR my Community and do as They wish, with no agenda of my own.... to stand up for our Town and our Children and bring the transparency and accountability that Government so desperately needs.
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: Protecting our watersheds is paramount; in 2001 someone tampered with our water supply, forcing several days of having to boil water; since our watersheds are exposed, it shines a light on what Could happen if someone wanted to harm our Town; looking at security or other infrastructures is something I’d want to examine, if people believe the same.... Equally as important is our local economy; given the distance between Municipalities, it’s so important that our businesses remain economical and furthermore, flourish; there’s hardly any work in Town for our teens and we need to make sure that what few jobs there are remain; same applies to all persons; too many are leaving for Alberta to work since the work around our area is scarce and doesn’t pay the same rates as elsewhere.
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: To me, Transparency and accountability are a no brainer; at least it should be. Elected officials are elected By the Public and are therefore Accountable to their constituents. I’m here to work FOR my Community and present their needs and vision. End of story.
Q4. What is your position on municipal tax rates and the corresponding level and allocation of services?
A: I don’t believe that our taxes are too far off balance as long as they stay where they are and are Not increased; we Definitely need Accountability as to the allocation of funds; I’d also like to see that community based services like Victim/Police Services are properly funded.
Q5. What is your vision for this area, and how would getting elected help achieve it?
A: I believe in our Community; there’s a reason why we’re here; I have a long family history entrenched in our area and on the Island and I want my children to share the same experiences that I have had. I just want to see it thrive so that they and others don’t have to leave in order to make a living. I share the same outlook for Ladysmith that people I talk to share; a green environment, a safe place for all to live; Good facilities so we can all go and have fun and participate in activities; an economically forward Town that is self sufficient and headed towards a bright future with keeping our traditions intact.
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