Occupation: retired
Why are you running for public office?
I believe with my past experience of over 30 years in the Cowichan Lake area that I will be an asset to the Town Council team. My organization skills are very good. I enjoy networking with people and researching items of interest.
What are your top 3 issues and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
1. I would like to review the town’s finances and spending;
2. to see where the water/sewer upgrade is at;
3. to form a committee with interested residents/business owners that will focus on how to get new businesses established in our town.
To tackle these issues I will bring them up at the council table and work toward getting them done in a timely fashion.
How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
I will not promise to lower taxes because I don’t believe we can at this point. However, the water/sewer parcel taxes need to be reviewed. Taxes are used for wages and upkeep of the town and should be reviewed on a regular basis to see if we are over-spending in one area or another. Hopefully, we will not have to raise taxes in the near future and we must curb spending on unnecessary items just like we do at home when times are tough.
What do you think it takes to lead Lake Cowichan?
I believe it takes an honest, hard-working team of individuals with open minds that will make informed decisions in the best interest of the town and its residents.
Describe your leadership or co-working style.
I believe in teamwork with open consultation and positive communication. I see positive communication as the key to all successful relationships.
How many council meetings have you attended in the last six months?
I have attended one to make a presentation for the Cowichan Lake District Seniors’Association. However, in the past I have attended several per year as well as the town hall meetings. I do read the articles in this paper and minutes online and visit the town office to consult with the administrator from time to time.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
I believe we need open consultation with constituents on a regular basis. I know they can attend all meetings, but many resident aren’t going to do that. So, I would like to see one afternoon per week advertised where the mayor or a councillor would be in the office to meet with constituents and listen to their concerns. We desperately need affordable housing for young families, single parents and seniors, and a senior care facility so people can stay in the community where they spent most of their life. If elected, I hope to research what the town can do, if anything, to get the ball rolling.