Beverly North is running for a seat on Lake Cowichan council.
I am Beverly North. I have lived in Lake Cowichan for 22 years. I have an extensive background in business, and currently own and operate “Deep Fried Ice Cream” in Lake Cowichan. I have been a director with the Lake Cowichan Chamber of Commerce for three years and am on the board of Lake Cowichan Forestry Co-Op.
I live and work in this community and will work hard to ensure that the potential growth of the area will be done with consideration and care of the local residents.
My three top priorities are:
Economic growth and stability. We need to increase the shoulder months of business (Oct. to May). Small retailers only have two months to earn the income required to pay the other 10 months of overhead. This is why stores are empty. We need tourism to be extended to increase downtown business in the slow months. We are working with Community futures and Cowichan Economic Development to bring forth development of biking and hiking trails. These recreational sports have brought financial success to many small communities, while not taking away from the environment.
Housing is absolutely necessary to sustain town growth. We need reasonably priced housing and even some geared to income rents.
Parking downtown in the summer has been a nightmare for the past three years. We have had a huge boost in tourism during July and August. We need to set up parking areas for tubers, and have the appropriate signage in place, so people know where they can park. Parking signs on main streets is imperative. A very serious look at this situation is required so that it can be actioned before Summer 2019.