Lori Iannidinardo is running for re-election to the CVRD board, representing Area D (Cowichan Bay).
I am currently serving my third term as CVRD electoral area director for Cowichan Bay and also served as board vice chair.
I grew up in the Cowichan Valley and have been serving the community my entire adult life. When my children were growing up I served on the consultative committee for the development of Frances Kelsey Senior Secondary and was the first Parent Advisory Committee President.
I have a strong commitment to environmental protection highlighted in my 10 years on the Cowichan Watershed Board and 15 years on the Parks and Recreation Commission. I have worked with business and environmental groups to help conserve and restore the vital habitat of the Cowichan Estuary, while supporting responsible economic development.
I have a deep understanding of the value of forestry and the balance that is needed to manage our sustainable practices, as both my husband and son are in the industry. My experience as the coordinator of Cowichan Community Kitchens for 22 years has given me insight into working successfully with many diverse community and business organizations to achieve common goals. It has also reinforced my deeply held belief that as a community we must protect our agricultural lands and enhance local food security.
I have worked to protect the coastline, the estuary, the water and the agricultural land in Cowichan Bay by using legislation and regulations as they were intended — for the benefit of the people. I led the development of a new Official Community Plan over six years, the community’s vision for the future. I have done this as a community leader for 10 years on our CVRD board, promoting co-operation with other levels of government, Cowichan Tribes, businesses and farms, in order to get things done.
