Election 2014
INSIDE:
All-candidates meetings How to vote, where to vote Election questionnaires
B2
Nanaimo News Bulletin Tuesday, November 4, 2014
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November 4, 2014 Nanaimo News Bulletin B3 3 Tuesday,Tuesday, November 4, 2014 Nanaimo News Bulletin
Election campaign picks up the pace
I
ALL-CANDIDATES meetings going on this week.
With a week and a half until the election, candidates are going to have to up their tempo. That will be particularly evident at an all-candidates meeting tonight (Nov. 4), when candidates
sit down with voters in a sort of ‘speed dating’ format. Tonight’s forum, sponsored by the Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce, will be comprised of a few different components. In addition to the sit-down interaction with voters, there will also be a more traditional, moderated question-andanswer debate.
Tonight’s event will feature candidates running for mayor and council in the City of Nanaimo as well as candidates for trustee in the NanaimoLadysmith school district. It will be held at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre, beginning at 5 p.m. and running until about 9 p.m. Ian Thompson, who is running for city coun-
cil, announced last week that he will be organizing another all-candidates meeting next week for mayor and council candidates in Nanaimo. “During my door-to-door campaign, the public has been requesting more opportunities to meet and hear candidates’ views on the upcoming election,” Thompson said in a press release.
That forum will be held Nov. 13 from 5:30-9 p.m. at the Beban Park social centre. The Nanaimo District Teachers’ Association is hosting an all-candidates meeting for school trustee hopefuls Thursday (Nov. 6) from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at John Barsby Secondary School. School trustees will be participating in an all-can-
didates forum Nov. 13-14, also at Barsby, from 6:30-9 p.m. each night. Different candidates will participate each day. An all-candidates meeting for the Regional District of Nanaimo’s Area E (Nanoose Bay) will be held Monday (Nov. 10) at 7 p.m. at Nanoose Place, hosted by the Unified Residents Association of Nanoose Bay.
How to vote, when to vote, where to vote General voting day across British Columbia is Nov. 15. Qualifications
Any Canadian citizens who are at least 18 years old may cast their ballots, provided they have lived in B.C. for at least six months and in Nanaimo for at least a month leading up to voting day. Residents must provide two pieces of identification, at least one bearing a signature, to prove residency. Photo ID is not required. Examples of acceptable identificatioin include a driver’s licence,
B.C. ID card, ICBC insurance document, utility bill, property tax notice, social insurance card, care card, debit card or credit card.
School, 5301 Williamson Rd.; Georgia Avenue Community School, 625 Georgia Ave.; McGirr Elementary School, 6199 McGirr Rd.; Nanaimo Alliance Church, 1609 Meredith Rd.; Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, 741 Third St.; Oliver Woods Community Centre, 6000 Oliver Rd.; and Wellington Community Hall, 3922 Corruna Ave. At the Protection Island fire hall, voting will be open Nov. 15 only from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. District of Lantzville residents can vote at Costin Hall, 7232 Lantzville Rd. from 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
General voting day
On Nov. 15, between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., voters in the City of Nanaimo may cast their ballots at the following locations: Chase River Elementary School, 1503 Cranberry Ave.; Departure Bay Activity Centre, 1415 Wingrove St.; City of Nanaimo Service and Resource Building, 411 Dunsmuir St.; Frank J. Ney Elementary
Regional District of Nanaimo residents can vote from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. in Area A at North Cedar Intermediate School, 2215 Gould Rd.; or at Cranberry fire hall, 1555 Morden Rd.; in Area B at Gabriola Elementary School, 680 North Rd.; in Area C at Extension Community Hall, 2140 Ryder St.; or at Pleasant Valley Social Centre, 6100 Doumont Rd.; and in Area E at Nanoose Pl., 2925 Northwest Bay Rd. Advance voting
Advance voting is Wednesday (Nov. 5) and
File photo
General voting day across British Columbia is Nov. 15.
Nov. 12 from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. at the Bowen Park Activity Centre, 500 Bowen Rd. the Regional District of Nanaimo office, 6300 Hammond Bay Rd.; and at the District of Lantz-
ville office, 7192 Lantzville Rd. Advance voting will take place Wednesday only at Gabriola Elementary School and Cranberry fire hall.
BRITISH COLUMBIA ELECTOR AL BOUNDARIES COMMISSION
The BC Electoral Boundaries Commission is coming to town and wants to hear from you. The commission is reviewing provincial electoral districts and making proposals to the Legislative Assembly on the area, boundaries and names of electoral districts to be used for the next two provincial general elections. Your views will help inform a Preliminary Report to the Legislative Assembly in the spring of 2015.
WEBSITE:
JOIN a public hearing:
DATE CITY/TOWN LOCATION TIME
www.bc-ebc.ca
Thursday, Nov 6
EMAIL:
info@bc-ebc.ca
Nanaimo
PHONE:
Coast Bastion Hotel, 11 Bastion Street, Chemanius Room
1-800-661-8683
9 a.m.
Your views can also be submitted by email info@bc-ebc.ca or online at the commission’s website www.bc-ebc.ca.
Direct: 604.714.2485 production@elevatorstrategy.com
Now is the time to have your say and shape your province.
Creation Date: 09/03/14
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Ad Title: coming to town
Revision Date: October 21, 2014 12:28 PM
Client: EBC
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City of Nanaimo: mayoral candidates Candidates can only fit so many words on an election sign, so this is a chance for them to get more of their messages across. The Nanaimo News Bulletin e-mailed questionnaires to every person running for mayor or councillor in the City of Nanaimo and District of Lantzville, school trustee in the Nanaimo-Ladysmith School District, or Regional District of Nanaimo director in Area A (Cedar, Cassidy, Yellow Point, South Wellington) and Area E (Nanoose Bay). Only the candidates who responded to the questionnaires are included in this section. Missing are the three mayoral hopefuls below, plus Nanaimo council candidates Gail Adrienne and Fred Brooks and Lantzville council candidates Andrew Mostad and Graham Savage. The profiles have been edited. To read expanded versions, please visit www.nanaimobulletin.com/municipalelection.
BRUNIE BRUNIE Occupation/background:
Studies in sociology, merchandising starting at an early age in my parents’ grocery; co-owner of Fraulein House of Fashion, fashion design; many years as realtor; poet, songwriter, playwright. Why are you running for public office?
Nanaimo is my ancestral native land. My great-grandmother was First Nations from Nanaimo. I consider myself to be an elder in this village and am committed to implementing the principles of true democracy, where people are able to have a real vote on issues. What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
KENDAL CSAK I make sure that I am accessible always and open-minded and I like the word evolved because the world you know is changing so much.
ALISHA NEUMANNLADRET I think it’s important that we give back to our community.
BILL HOLDOM Occupation/background:
College professor of English and First Nations Studies (retired), Malaspina University-College, 1970-2001; Nanaimo school board trustee, 1976-80, 1982-86, chairman for five years; Nanaimo city councillor and regional board director, 1986-96, 1999-2011; Nanaimo Co-op board member, 1998-99; Vancouver Island Regional Library chairman, 200810. Why are you running for public office?
I am running for mayor because I believe I can provide effective team leadership and good governance. I have the experience, know-how, and commitment to steer our council and community through the next four years. I want to focus on moving from Plan Nanaimo to Action Nanaimo – to act on the excellent set of plans generated by the current and previous councils after extensive public consultation. I offer a positive, progressive choice for Nanaimo’s future. What three priorities are important to you?
Water. Predictions suggest that Nanaimo’s water supply will be inadequate by 2020. I would do my best to ensure that our water supply continues to be our No. 1 priority and challenge, and that we continue to move forward on identifying and implementing effective solutions. Transportation. For both environmental and economic reasons, we need to continue to improve the ways in which we move around our community with or without a vehicle, and strengthen the public transportation links to other communities. I would pursue the ideas
ROGER McKINNON We just need a change.
I will kick start a new era of real green sustainability. Growing local organic food big time with high-tech solar greenhouses in every neighbourhood. Better food cheaper. Health and wealth creating many worthwhile jobs. Providing food security. Affordable home ownership projects. Our children and grandchildren deserve a piece of the pie. It is the inherent right of every citizen to have a home, be it ever so humble. Co-operatives, smaller homes (without double carports). Eliminating big in-the-pocket development profits. We do not need to clear cut in order to develop. No more money in lieu of subdivision green spaces. Keeping the waterfront for the public always and forever. No privatization. How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
and proposals in the recently completed Transportation Master Plan. I am particularly eager to improve safety conditions for pedestrians, cyclists, and bus riders, and I will continue to seek a passenger ferry service to Vancouver. Citizen engagement. Throughout my career as an elected representative, I have advocated open government. People should have a say in the decisions that affect them, and we need an effective process for that to happen. How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
To me, a livable community is an affordable one, so keeping taxes and fees affordable is vital. Since we usually can’t afford everything we want, we have to set priorities, then stick to them – ensuring that we address the most essential priorities first. What do you think it takes to lead Nanaimo?
I think leading Nanaimo as mayor will take good chairmanship. That means knowing the rules, applying them fairly and productively, and ensuring that everyone has all the relevant information to make a wise decision. Patience, strong listening skills, thoughtfulness, respect for others, flexibility, and the ability to provide clear direction are all vital qualities.
GARY KORPAN Occupation/background:
Lawyer, 25 years (retired); councillor, nine years (1984-1993); mayor, 15 years (1993-2008).
Why are you running for public office?
To offer my lengthy experience of community issues and knowledge of city operations and budgets to ensure the limited resources of taxpayers is used wisely and cost effectively. To stop the spending spree.
What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
To stop the spending spree by freezing all current projects until the new council can review and reconsider them. Citizens are demanding fiscal restraint. I hate wasteful spending. I am committed to a full core review of all city operations be conducted to ensure your tax money is well spent. All organizations receiving tax subsidies will undergo a hard audit to ensure they truly deserve your money. All questionable funding decisions will be reconsidered by a recorded vote in open session. Council’s top priority must be to stimulate investment and spur business expansion and job creation, within a sustainable community that ensures a great quality of life for all its residents. All regulation needs to be updated and streamlined to focus on encouraging, not preventing, new and expanding business and jobs. How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
In addition to my priorities above, I intend to use the powers of the mayor
Fair taxes and superior services are my objectives. Absolutely no tax benefits for large multinationals to facilitate development. I am vehemently opposed to giving your tax dollars to the Hilton Hotel, which has been granted the right by the present city council to demolish one of Nanaimo’s oldest heritage buildings, confiscate a pedestrian walkway that has been legally covenanted on the land connecting the Old City Quarter to the waterfront and privatizing parkland down to the waterfront, dispossessing native carvers in the process. As mayor of Nanaimo, I will not allow this to happen. We can be the greatest city on the planet – clean, green and happy. What do you think it takes to lead Nanaimo? Describe your leadership or co-working style.
I will meet with all organizations and unite the city. I will host a minimum of three public forums per year encouraging citizens to debate on issues that are of importance to the community. There are no problems that cannot be solved, all the answers lie with you. Open door policy – no secret deals in council. I will facilitate. You will make it happen. to bring budget line items I consider wasteful or improper back in open council session for public debate and a recorded vote so taxpayers can see who is protecting their interests and who is not.
What do you think it takes to lead Nanaimo? Describe your leadership or co-working style.
First, wide knowledge of the myriad community issues and needs. Second, respect for the true bosses – the citizens – not special interest groups sucking up subsidies at taxpayer expense. Third, common sense as to true need priorities and how to pay for them in a prudent manner. Holding council, staff, contractors, etc. accountable for professional, quality service. My record as mayor of forming 8-1 and 7-2 coalitions, across the political spectrum over five terms of office, on major issues, proves I have the leadership qualities of getting the city’s work done co-operatively and effectively. I am a truly independent, unaffiliated candidate. I want to be responsible only to the general citizenry, not special interest groups. I do not seek endorsement from any group, but I would appreciate the voting support of informed voters.
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City of Nanaimo: mayoral candidates BILL McKAY Occupation/background:
Nanaimo city councillor.
Why are you running for public office?
Over the past three years, I believe that our community and current council have lacked direction and strong leadership. I have spent considerable time during my tenure exploring the best practices implemented by other successful and progressive cities, and feel that the knowledge I have gained, coupled with my drive and determination, will provide the vision Nanaimo needs to become a great city. What three priorities are important to you?
Colliery dams: To start, I will bring the new council up to speed and will seek simple, creative and cost-effective solutions that will satisfy the requirements of the Dam Safety Branch of B.C. All the research has been done – it is time for council to provide clear and concise instruction to our staff, as to how we will resolve this issue. Public engagement: I will instruct senior staff to fast track a multitude of new public engagement tools, which
will include: town hall meetings, neighbourhood meetings, monthly coffee meetings with the mayor and proven web-based solutions, so that our council has a direct line of communication with our citizens. Initiate a program and services review: Rather than conducting a core review, I believe in a three-pronged approach. First, we need to determine what services the community would like the city to provide. Second, we need to establish how many resources or dollars will be dedicated to each function. Finally, we need to determine how we can deliver these services in the most efficient manner.
How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
I believe that fiscal responsibility starts with solid planning. A program and services review will provide council with a road map to follow, in terms of how our community would like to see our dollars spent. It is important to have a leader who is not afraid to make the tough decisions necessary when considering all of the projects that are seeking funding. My voting record proves that I am ready to make the tough calls needed to keep our budget on track, and stop the unnecessary tax increases. What do you think it takes to lead Nanaimo? Describe your leadership or co-working style.
One of the first things I plan on doing is sitting down and collectively deciding what we hope to accomplish as a council over the next four years.
JIM ROUTLEDGE Occupation/background:
I am a small ‘d’ developer, builder and realtor. I am originally from Vancouver, have a UBC Commerce degree and experience with IBM. I moved to Nanaimo in 1982 and have worked in construction-related jobs ever since. I recently went back to school to become a realtor. I am proud of the contribution I have made to helping Nanaimo move. I am an analyzer by nature and enjoy finding efficient solutions. I make a mean caesar salad, enjoy fourwheel drive adventures, and recently I jumped out of an airplane. I wear the same waist size that I did 40 years ago. I have a wonderful spouse, a feisty 93-year old mom, and a terrific 27-year-old son. Why are you running for public office?
I want to be part of a winning team. I can see opportunities to get Nanaimo moving further and faster, and to win at the game of civic and community operations. I believe I can make a difference, build real teamwork, and contribute to the community. What priorities are important to you?
Management – it’s time to get modern and sophisticated in the management of civic operations. We have too many poor and slow results with no changes being made to improve them. I want a high-level, open, outside hiring process for city manager – MBA minimum. Transparency – share questions and information as it comes available; utilize more modern and traditional communication. I plan make the word ‘transparency’ actually mean something and not merely be lip service. Attitude – I plan to take a positive and high-level view of civic operations. I play the game to create win-win results for the entire community. And I don’t mind admitting that I think this entire process should be enjoyable and even fun for everyone involved.
How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
It’s neither my job to evaluate spending, nor to assess the need within the current management structure. However, I can hire someone to do that job and do it very well. I see this as a vital step to getting everyone back on task and filling their role, whether it is for policy or operations. What do you think it takes to lead Nanaimo?
It takes someone willing to get dirty: to do the dirty work that no one else will do, and then to put on a perfect suit and get Nanaimo moving and winning. It’s our turn. I plan to do what I do best. My track record shows that I move things efficiently and well.
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City of Nanaimo: mayoral candidates JOHN RUTTAN Occupation/background:
Business person; mayor of Nanaimo, six years; former owner/operator, Nanaimo Travel, 32 years; downtown commercial property owner; former director, Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce; former chairman, Nanaimo Port Authority; former director, Nanaimo Museum; former president, Tourism Nanaimo; former commodore, Loyal Nanaimo Bathtub Society. Why are you running for office?
After six years as mayor, I have been a party to a number of new and exciting initiatives, some of which are still underway. It is my desire to continue on as mayor to see these projects finished and to be present for the opening ceremonies. I am intensely proud of Nanaimo and as a 52-year resident of this city, I want to continue on with the promotion of Nanaimo as the best place to live, invest and play in the Pacific Northwest. What priorities are important to you?
Maintaining the momentum which has been built up over the past six years. Importantly, we need to con-
tinue to build relationships with investors, both local and foreign, and to promote the value of investing in Nanaimo. Working collaboratively with Snuneymuxw First Nations to develop and expand areas of mutual interest. Exploring the potential opportunities that could be realized on Newcastle Island for SFN is clearly a priority for me. Aboriginal tourism offers tremendous potential for everyone. Developing a comprehensive plan for the Wilcox property recently purchased by the city. This is a unique opportunity to create a true transportation hub for Nanaimo which could encompass a local bus exchange, docking facilities for a fast, passengeronly ferry service to Vancouver, the possible re-establishment of rail service from the Wilcox Yard, and a longdistance bus terminal for services such as Greyhound and the Tofino Bus.
How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
Firstly it is important to receive input from the community in order for council to establish priorities. As a council, we are then better able to align our budget with the identified strategic priorities. We must monitor staffing requirements on an ongoing basis to ensure that wages and benefits are consistent with actual needs. What do you think it takes to lead Nanaimo?
I am very supportive of a collaborative leadership style which builds stronger relationships with our community and community partners.
For a sustainable livable community friendly to children & seniors & families – for moving forward together one step at a time – on November 15th, ELECT
M O D L LL HO
BI
AL THOMPSON Occupation/background:
I was born in Medicine Hat, Alta., and moved to the Island in 1969 where I met my wife and got married in 1971. Started working in the logging industry the first week I got to Nanaimo and finished my apprenticeship as an interprovincial heavy-duty mechanic which led to working at logging camps. Went to work at a few truck shops which led me into trucking. That worked well until the economy went in the tank so I moved the family to Alberta. I started out as foreman, then service manager at Mack trucks Calgary. Was asked to and did join up with Laidlaw Waste as shop manager, which led to being Western regional equipment manager. At this time I also sat on a board at Southern Alberta Institute of Technology. Well, seven years of cold winters got me back to Nanaimo and back into trucking. Between trucks, I lived on the water for 10 years fixing boats and became a chief engineer and shore captain for two 400-foot vessels down in San Fran-
cisco bay where I worked with the U.S. Coast Guard to clean up pollution that the ships were causing. Then back to Nanaimo and trucking and here I am.
What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues?
Jobs, we need jobs, this town is drying up, there is no work, our young folks are all moving to Alberta, we have to bring them back. With new docks coming to Duke Point this will help draw industry here. This can be done without giving away the farm with tax breaks. Here is an idea, how about we give a $100 tax break to new industry for every one full-time job they create? Tourism. Folks, we have to stop thinking that the tourists will save us; they won’t, we must do this ourselves. The cruise ship dock proves that point. If we can take control of the downtown area docks from the feds we can build our tourist trap there. I am against the two hotel deals, they are wrong, we do not need more empty rooms. Let’s support the motels and hotels we have now. How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
The next council and myself will freeze taxes for three years and stop the wasteful spending the present council seems so fond of doing. We will use this money to get better day care for the young working families and more affordable housing. We will take back control of this town from the city management team and straighten out the folks that work with them.
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City of Nanaimo: council candidates BRIAN ANDERSON
JACK ARNOLD
What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
Teamwork is a key issue and council should have a strategic planning session to agree on priorities and an action plan for the coming term, so that we can all work together and accomplish the priority items. A business-friendly attitude is important to foster a vibrant economy as this will create jobs along with supporting business growth, as environmental concerns, social issues and arts and culture funding lands on the doorstep of the business community. A core review is important. The core review will tell us what we do well and what we need to improve upon. Where this has been done in other cities, it has been cost effective. How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
Tax rate increases should be set by council and held at a minimum, with consideration of the residents and tax fatigue.
What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
For me, priority one is providing an open and approachable council to the people of Nanaimo. This means consultation and consensus on items of major public concern. It means providing accountability, fiscally responsibe decisions for the taxpayers. The Colliery dams are a major issue which needs to be clarified in my mind. The balance between a danger to people whose homes lie in the area and the preservation of green space should have much more open consultation with stakeholders. We need to find a way to bring more industrial and high-tech environmentally aware business capable of paying good incomes to our city, to stop the exodus of our citizens and youth to other areas to find employment. My other major concern is our waste and recycle system. That means a greater emphasis public and private sectors to come together.
BILL BESTWICK Why are you running for public office?
I am seeking re-election to continue my commitment to represent the citizens of Nanaimo who share the values which I represent and continue to pursue opportunities to enrich and grow a healthy and prosperous city with a view to restore trust and confidence in city hall. What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
Performance review: Continue to advocate for an independent performance review with the goal and objective to identify potential areas for savings. Citizens participation: Ensure citizens from all sectors of our community maintain their right to engage in the democratic process of city hall. Asset management: Ensure adequate resources are made available to maintain our aging infrastructure with a plan that respects the associated costs to the taxpayer and annual operating budget.
DIANE BRENNAN Why are you running for office?
Since I was first elected in 2002 we have accomplished much, but there is more work to be done. I want to influence the decision-making process. I want to find a new way with new ideas. I want to build a city where we remember the past but seek the future. What three priorities are important to you?
To preserve and protect the green spaces and environmental integrity that first attracts people to our community. To support enduring economic security so that our children and our children’s children can look forward to a prosperous future. To develop a transportation network for the 21st century that supports our goal of sustainability. How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
Property taxes in Nanaimo are in the middle of the pack for B.C. I intend keep them there by being watchful and thoughtful.
Diane Brennan
Re-elect for Nanaimo City Council
Moving Forward with Proven Leadership
250-758-3676 electdianebrennan.com Authorized by Diane Brennan, financial agent 250-758-3676
Brian Brian
ANDERSON ANDERSON Teamwork
FOR COUNCIL COUNCIL FOR
Authorized by Brian Anderson, financial agent - anderson.brian@telus.net
Fiscal Responsibility • Evaluate how taxes are spent • Support businesses and homeowners through appropriate property taxes
Transportation • Develop a plan that includes bike lanes/paths • Re-evaluate bus routes to encourage ridership • Re-evaluate the downtown parking plan with merchant & resident consultation
Health & Wellness • Promote hiking and mountain bike paths • Encourage park use
Accountable, Responsible, & Approachable Authorized by Scott Henderson, financial agent, 250 616 3512
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City of Nanaimo: council candidates LEON CAKE Why are you running for public office?
In the City of Nanaimo we have ongoing expenses as well as some areas which will need our considerable attention and our tax dollars in the near future. I would like to be part of the process in which council determines how and when to proceed with these critical issues. What priorities are important to you?
We need our taxes and spending brought under control. When we commit to spending our taxpayers’ money, we need to remember that each dollar comes from someone’s pocketbook, and we need to be continually evaluating whether our expenditures are reasonable and necessary. Tax dollars are not the property of the city council. Rather, the council is entrusted with using those dollars to best benefit our city. That is a huge responsibility. Asset management is important to me. We need to assess future needs in order to properly plan for the funding of upgrades and improvements.
TALI CAMPBELL What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
Downtown area – I want to see a downtown Nanaimo that is relevant for all residents. We should have safe, usable spaces that are for the benefit of the entire community. I want all of Nanaimo to feel inspired to attend events that occur at the Diana Krall Plaza, the waterfront downtown, the Port Theatre and other various downtown businesses. Youth involvement – The youths of our city are not only the leaders of tomorrow, they should be the leaders of today. Youth involvement is not just about volunteerism. It is about engaging youths to want more from their community and to the give back to that same community. Community input – I want to be a part of a council that works equally with all community partners to ensure engagement and respect for all plans being put forth. I want to work with our community and be sure that all residents feel heard and respected.
KEVIN CANTELON
STEPHEN COCHRANE
Why are you running for public office?
Why are you running for public office?
There is a growing gap of trust between the people of Nanaimo and their city council. I believe that my skills and experience can help get city council back on track. There are too many important issues facing the city to allow the status quo to continue. Nanaimo deserves better. What priorities are important to you?
Re-establish trust between the council and the community, while promoting a collaborative atmosphere within council. Promote and encourage development while preserving and maintaining public lands. Encourage new industry to create jobs in Nanaimo. How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
I plan to maintain taxes at existing levels while growing our tax base by encouraging and facilitating development. My spending priorities are to maintain city services, while continuing, and where possible, expanding programs.
I want people to know that they will have a true advocate and voice on city council. Too often friends have told me or I myself have looked for answers and wondered why things were happening in our city with no explanation – I want to change that. What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
I want to get city council and staff working together again as a cohesive group that listens to the people of Nanaimo. I will address conflicts head on and work collaboratively to find a solution. Get city spending in check so that taxpayers are getting a good bang for their buck. The answer is not necessarily to freeze, lower or increase taxes but to have a core review and see where money is being spent, for what reason and if there is a sound long-range plan. To create events and reasons for people to come and want to live and stay in Nanaimo.
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City of Nanaimo: council candidates GORDON FULLER What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
I want to ensure participatory democracy remains a priority. I want all committee meetings videotaped and placed on the city website. Your council needs to recognize that social, environmental, cultural and economic aspects are intertwined, linking the community together. A focus on one without the others detracts from the whole; a focus on all builds better community. A longtime social and community advocate, I know it is critical to recognize the importance of a healthy diverse economy in providing meaningful employment and the necessary tax base from which to run our fair city. What do you think it takes to lead Nanaimo?
When elected I will bring a new level of trust, openness, inclusiveness, common sense and experience to the position, all qualities needed as a sitting councillor.
PAUL GOGO What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
Open up communications. Base all decisions on how the outcome affects people who actually live here. Create online referendums or questionnaires for issues that concern people. No more cynicism. Let’s have ideas, suggestions and answers. Any successful venture requires people, communications, skills and leadership. Finalize a solution to the dam. Get the information. Our park is a gem and a serious tourist attraction. Your great grandkids will love it too. Promote a vibrant economy. Encourage investment, growth and job creation without sacrificing our priceless environment. Local high-tech people have big visions. Let’s create a promotional plan for young industries. Tourism is our gold mine. I am from a logging family, and I know what our city is built on. We need to reach out and help to develop and promote tourism markets.
JIM GOLDSACK
TED GREVES
Why are you running for office?
What priorities are important to you?
The taxpayers of Nanaimo need a strong council and I believe my background and knowledge can gain back the confidence of the community.
What three priorities are important to you?
We need to demonstrate a willingness to listen and understand what people are asking. I would advocate in camera meetings be kept to a bare minimum. In addition, informal meetings held throughout the community to allow our citizens an opportunity to ask questions or just plain dialogue with members of the council. Fiscal responsibility. I want to see a service and program review. Encouragement of the public to participate in the review. A proper balance to accommodate the community as a whole. Work with the business community and encourage investment. Protect our heritage and environment while working with senior government to ensure we have affordable housing and social programs.
Water: Water is of utmost importance to the First Nations and hopefully we can come to some arrangement to increase our city’s water source within the near future. Transportation: I will continue to work to implement the recommendations set out in the recently adopted Transportation Master Plan. Governance: I am the chairman of the Governance Review Steering Committee and we still have important work to do in this area.
How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
We deliberate in a collaborative atmosphere as a council with a great amount of advice and help from our professional staff and we are very cognitive of the importance of property taxes. Council unanimously voted for a one per cent increase in each year of our five-year plan, so that is a given. There are other important issues that we will have to address shortly such as water and a possible future dam, so taxes will be a big issue in the future.
Re-elect Bill Bestwick on November 15, 2014 • Experienced • RDN Director - DPRC Chair - Transit Select Committee - Executive Committee Member - Port Liaison Committee Member - Sports Hall of Fame Committee Member • Accountable • Nanaimo First Approach • Advocate for Preservation and Protection of Nanaimo’s Natural Resources - Land and Water • Advocate for Sports - Recreation - Culture - Environment Growth • Advocate for independent performance audit of City Services • Advocate to conclude the Colliery Dam spending • Advocate to preserve Citizen involvement & not the New Governance Policy Approved by Bonnie Bestwick Financial Agent for Bill Bestwick • 250.753.7065
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City of Nanaimo: council candidates SCOTT HENDERSON What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
Fiscal responsibility: evaluate how taxes are spent, encourage business growth through appropriate wait times for permits and licensing, and by supporting established business and homeowners through appropriate property tax rates. Transportation: develop a transportation plan which includes bike paths planned with purpose and consistency, evaluate bus routes and encourage bus use driven by passenger needs, and further develop the downtown parking plan with merchant consultation. Health and wellness: to continue to promote a vast hiking and mountain bike trail system, encourage park use, beach access and outdoor activity. How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
With common sense. We need to encourage new business in the city to spread the tax load.
JERRY HONG
MIKE HORN
Why are you running for public office?
Why are you running for public office?
I believe that we need a fresh approach to attract innovative businesses and attractions that will stimulate our growth in our city. What priorities are important to you?
Tourism: We need to continue to support and promote tourism in Nanaimo and invest in destination development that attracts businesses. I will work to create more festivals and other activities for the citizens of Nanaimo; ensure downtown is a safe and vibrant place for all to enjoy; support viable parking that will not hurt business growth. Infrastructure: I believe that building a strong infrastructure is important to our growth but should also be practical, innovative and balanced with the city’s history, lifestyle and local values. To do this I will work to support practical infrastructure, renewal and innovation. Inspiring and advocacy for young adults: We need to support young people who are looking for good, sustainable jobs.
Authorized by Kevin Cantelon,
KAREN HOVESTAD
I was outraged at the handling of the Colliery Dam Park issue and the city’s shifting positions on public safety. What priorities are important to you?
To provide critical thinking on council – I will challenge assumptions and point out different points of view. I will ask council to stop and think before they pick fights with neighbourhoods and religious groups. Parks – I want to preserve the parks we have and get community input for future plans. Downtown – We need to get behind the downtown The first goal revival. How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
“
of leadership is to foster unity.
We have made many commitments in the last three years. We need to manage these carefully, slow down the rate of new spending and most importantly, seek value for money. What do you think it takes to lead Nanaimo?
The first goal of leadership is to foster unity. If everyone feels included in the process it will be easier to implement decisions together.
What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
Community engagement. We need good, old-fashioned debate to truly tap our social capital. Our official community plan declares neighbourhood plans are the building blocks of our community, yet none exist for the majority of our city and the few we do have are becoming outdated. Let’s debate the ward system. Eight councillors, eight wards. Then facilitate a plan for each neighbourhood. The goal – empowered people, better representation and direct accountability. Environmentally sustainable business. We are putting our future at risk by not looking far enough down the road. We simply must be environmentally, socially and economically sustainable. Raise the bar on Nanaimo’s reputation. At the council table we need an attitude of respect – respect for the people who vote for us, respect for the people who work for us and respect for the process from all levels.
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November 4, 2014 Nanaimo News Bulletin B11 11 Tuesday,Tuesday, November 4, 2014 Nanaimo News Bulletin
City of Nanaimo: council candidates JIM KIPP
GERALDINE MANSON
What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
Environment – policies supporting protection of natural and human environments, green initiatives and development of life-cycle planning. Economy – policies supporting fiscally responsible spending, debt control and the development of strong and dynamic local economy. Equity – social dignity based policy and response to issues of addiction, crime, homelessness, mental illness and societal issues. Working to create a greater sense of pride in our community.
How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
Using these topics of triple bottom line accounting and strategic planning as guiding principles to assist my decision making. This includes gathering and distributing information to develop policy based on public and stakeholder vision and input.
Why are you running for public office?
Strengthen the voice for women’s rights, education and culture between communities. To recognize and take into consideration that there are differences in cultures, different ways of living, different generations and different income levels for those living within the City of Nanaimo. What priorities are important to you?
Building bridges by listening and responding to the voices rarely heard from all walks of life within the community of Nanaimo. Acting with respect – respect toward individuals and community. Transparency and accountability will be achieved through ongoing communications via social media, updating the community on a biweekly basis. Being the voice, the legs and eyes for all those who cannot do so. In order to determine a course of action, the power of community lies in everyone being valued and engaged.
FRED PATTJE What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
Maintaining a safe and secure community: this means I will work to ensure effective police and firefighting services and continued maintenance and improvement of our water, sewer and road infrastructure. I will continue to promote strong, vibrant neighbourhoods in a quality environment. I will work hard to increase affordable housing and to reduce poverty. Jobs: I will work to attract and retain new businesses to Nanaimo that bring well-paying jobs in the hightech and knowledge-based sectors. I will push to implement a review of the municipal commercial tax structure with the aim to reduce taxes on small enterprises of all kinds since they provide the majority of jobs. Urban planning: Now that we have the South Downtown Waterfront vision and guidelines, I will make certain that these are followed and applied.
WENDY PRATT What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
Fiscal responsibility – Rising taxes are of great concern and with good reason. We must regain control over spending that directly affects the rise and fall of taxes. Community engagement – Many have lost trust in city hall. The only way to regain that trust is through effective community engagement, transparency and accountability. Accountability – City hall must be responsible and answerable for its actions. When considering important issues we must weigh all sides, do our research, and in the end rely on evidence-based decision making that meets the goals set out in the strategic plan. The present plan is the product of past community engagement, and exists to inform the direction and decision making of city council and city staff. Perhaps it’s time to revisit our community plan.
RE-ELECT
FRED PATTJE
NANAIMO CITY COUNCILLOR NANAIMO CITY COUNCIL
HARD WORKING APPROACHABLE AND CONSISTENT
A Responsible New Voice For a Positive Change.
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City of Nanaimo: council candidates JIM TAYLOR
IAN THOMPSON
What priorities are important to you?
Governance – Council must set policy and insist staff execute. Budget – City property taxes must be what the community can afford. Participatory democracy – Nanaimo citizens must become a part of all major decisions made by city council. How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
Freeze on taxes – set a spending limit at city hall and make sure staff stick to it. Core review – our basic services such as water, sewer, roads, sanitation and safety must be fully funded and protected before we entertain funding of special interest concerns. Stop the waste – currently our basic infrastructure is not being fully funded and we are spending money on $16-million staff offices and other wastes. This has to stop. The conference centre should be sold and the debt retired, putting surplus funds into the bank. This should offset tax increases for the immediate future.
What three priorities are important to you?
Keeping taxes at a reasonable level. I am in favour of a core review so we can ensure the money we are currently collecting is used in the most efficient manner possible. Involve the community outside of council meetings; I believe that council needs to ask for more input prior to making decisions. I suggest roundtable discussions where we listen more than we speak. I believe the South Downtown Waterfront Initiative will have the biggest impact for Nanaimo. I believe the city should set up a separate operating organization like the Nanaimo Economic Development Corporation to ensure a plan is followed that we can all be proud of. Describe your leadership style.
My style involves co-operation and confidence. We need to ask for input and listen more than we speak. My job will be to make the best decisions for all of Nanaimo rather than trying to please everyone.
Karen Hovestad
for City Council
IAN THORPE
BILL YOACHIM
What priorities are important to you?
What priorities are important to you?
Fiscal accountability – Nobody wants increased taxes, but we also want to maintain and improve services, facilities, and the city’s infrastructure. Long-term budget planning is required, and critical examination of budget items. An involved council would work with city staff to reduce expenses and make wise decisions on the spending of taxpayers’ money. Council credibility – This will involve improved communication with staff, public, and each other. It will also require the effort to do due diligence and to examine all sides of any issue before reaching an informed decision. Economic prosperity – Initiatives will be needed to attract clean business to Nanaimo, and to develop tourism opportunities that showcase our city’s rich cultural history. The Harbour City is still in many ways a Hub City, and we need to promote Nanaimo as a transportation and tourism hub for all of Vancouver Island.
Build stronger bridges with key stakeholders – working as one and eliminate working in isolation, our dollars and key initiatives will be better off financially and operationally. Create a culture of inclusion and accountability at city hall – ensure the public is fully included and engaged through town hall meetings, reducing in camera meetings, creating open democracy through transparency and accountability. Protect our cherished parks and natural environment while spurring on wellmanaged economic development initiatives, including developing a Nanaimo economic/environmental strategic vision through a public, collaborative process. How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
Core review focused on top-heavy management structure at city hall. Engaging public in a transparent process to review allocation of city finances, and make recommendations for reallocation.
Re-Elect
TED GREVES Nanaimo City Council
k l a T s ’ t Le
I offer... 3 responsive listening 3 fiscal accountability 3 long term progresss 3 commitment to community engagement
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November 4, 2014 Nanaimo News Bulletin B13 13 Tuesday,Tuesday, November 4, 2014 Nanaimo News Bulletin
Nanaimo school district: trustee candidates NELSON ALLEN Why are you running for trustee?
I have served in the past on the board of education and worked for over a decade to improve education outcomes in this district and to see the construction of a new school on the NDSS site. The plan will improve education outcomes, will bring jobs to the community and provide facilities for VIU and city recreation needs. I wish to see these projects to completion. What three priorities are important to you?
All of our focus must be on our students. Provide them with the very best instructional supports and house them in new or renovated classrooms to improve learning outcomes. Promote higher graduation rates. With the highest number of our students living in poverty in B.C. we must do more to ensure that each student has the opportunity to graduate. Skills and trades training. We have to provide the opportunities for our interested youth to learn skills in traditional and new trades.
BILL BARD What three priorities are important to you?
Bullying and discrimination are still big issues in our district. Continuing to develop toward 21stcentury learning initiatives like RTI and self-regulation. Instructional coordinators should have come from within our own schools, and any new hires ought to as well. We must have a better working relationship with our staff. The teacher is not the only person able to make a difference in a child’s education. Bus drivers, EAs, secretaries, custodians and every other employee that has interaction with your child should have a role in planning a better learning environment. How do you plan to work toward a balanced school district budget?
We must continue to consolidate services wherever possible with the first priority always being on student outcomes. Our budget must stop being about shortfalls and cuts. We must get to the place where services are added and enriched, not lost.
NATASHA BOB What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
I want to support and strengthen SD68 relations with the aboriginal education community. My plan is to seek guidance and wisdom from education advocates and work with all aboriginal education stakeholders. Advocating for capital and classroom funding and improved class size and composition is important to me. Where possible, I plan to emphasize the fiduciary duty of governments to support a strong public education system. Ensuring that teachers have ready access to learning resource is also very important. I want to support plans and initiatives that support learning. What do you think it takes to be an education leader in Nanaimo?
I think an education leader needs to speak comfortably about anti-bullying, child and youth mental health issues. If these issues are ignored it creates an poor environment for learning.
JAMIE BRENNAN What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
The school district needs to collaborate with other agencies and organizations to address the issue of family poverty. Currently, 34 per cent of our children begin their schooling unprepared in several social and personal dimensions. In other words, they start from behind. This is unacceptable. Lobby and advocate for a more realistic funding formula for public education. Every year, boards of education find themselves having to cut programs and services because the ministry does not recognize the fact of increased costs for the provision of educational services. Continue to upgrade our schools, both in terms of the buildings and equipment. We have had to slow our technology improvements due to financial problems. Also, many of our buildings are aging. Our students deserve to be taught in the safest and best-equipped schools.
VISION: A Council and city that values public input – Participatory Democracy. Focus on the preservation of Nanaimo’s heritage and Parks; development that works in harmony with the waterfront and mountain vistas, maintaining the unique character of neighbourhoods and the community, Citizen Driven and Not Developer Driven; recognizing the importance of a healthy diverse economy in providing meaningful employment and the necessary tax base. Smart growth not rapid growth should determine Nanaimo’s future. Your council needs to recognize that social, environmental, cultural and economic aspects are intertwined; linking the community together. A focus on one without the others detracts from the whole. It is imperative that we, as a community, recognize and value diversity and the potential of ALL citizens in contributing to make Nanaimo a vibrant and INCLUSIVE community.
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Nanaimo school district: trustee candidates TANIA BRZOVIC
ALANA CAMERON
Why are you running for school trustee?
I’m running because I believe the public education system is in crisis. We need a strong board that will advocate for improved funding. I also believe we can use current funding more effectively.
What priorities are important to you?
My top three priorities are to look at streamlining administration so we can get more resources into the classroom so as to address class size/ composition concerns; improve relationships within the district stemming from changes brought on by the current governance model; speak up for the community and support teachers/public education. How do you plan to work toward a balanced school budget?
I will speak out about the need for adequate funding; collaborate with stakeholders to determine where best to use resources; discuss the pros and cons of submitting a needs budget.
What three priorities are important to you and how do you intend to tackle these if elected?
Continue working with all stakeholder groups on initiatives that strengthen our system. Continue listening to parents. In my role as DPAC president I have become aware of many issues that affect parents across this district. Childhood poverty is another issue that affects students across this district. It affects the child’s ability to learn, it affects their social interactions within the school itself as well as their selfesteem. How do you plan to work toward a balanced school budget?
No one will argue that the education system as a whole needs more money right across the province. I have watch over the past few years trustees making very difficult decisions about making cuts to a system that is stretched very thin. I think that when jobs are cut due to lack of funding it has an ultimate impact on the kids.
VOTE
ON NOV. 15 FOR CITY COUNCIL • Leadership • Collaboration • Fiscal Responsibility • Evidence-Based Decisions
“Being a member of City Council is a position of responsibility and trust. I promise never to forget that.” Working Together. One Voice. One Community. Authorized by Wendy Pratt, financial officer, info@wendypratt.ca
NANCY CURLEY
PATTI GRAND
What three priorities are important to you and how do you intend to tackle these if elected?
I have been vocal during the budget process that the cuts the board is forced to make must be across the entire district, not just within the classrooms. While I have (and continue to be) been very supportive of our strategic plan, I believe that we must find a balance between moving forward with implementation and addressing the needs of today’s students. Addressing the issue of poverty within our district is a goal that I brought with me three years ago. The board has identified this problem, but the work to deal with it has only just started. Lastly, the role of the board within the day-to-day operations of the district is something that I believe must still be refined. The board has moved to a governance model which I support, but I’m not confident that we have yet found the right balance of responsibilities to best serve our children.
What three priorities are important to you?
Improved communication and consultation with stakeholders. Aligning student capabilities with attainable educational goals through curriculum. Resource sharing to end purchase duplication of applicable studies. How do you plan to work toward a balanced school district budget?
There is no choice about a balanced budget, trustees will listen to representatives of applicable groups affected by changes in the budget, set a target and direct their staff to bring a first draft for consideration – it is a process. Trustees need to work with available local information and end paying for irrelevant studies from questionable sources. Trustees should be working with their parent organization to reset standards for addressing provincial issues such as a system to create a class-size equation that has local flexibility reflecting student needs.
Elect
GERALDINE MANSON THE VOICE As an Elder of Snuneymuxw (Snanaimo) First Nation and having served 12 years on Snuneymuxw council and 17 years as Cultural Elders’ Adviser including guiding the ‘Justice Circle’, my work has strengthened relationships between all the communities of Nanaimo. As an Elder-in-Resident at VIU, I provide guidance and support to students sharing traditional knowledge practices in the Faculty of Health and Human Services Program. Being a part of Vancouver Island University, Snuneymuxw First Nation and the City of Nanaimo. I understand each platform and am dedicated to strengthening the relationships between all communities to improve the infrastructure within Nanaimo, enhance the unique culture of our city, promote education and economic growth in the downtown corridor for small business to thrive. My Integral Promise To You: • Be the voice to advocate for the citizens of Nanaimo • Be the liaison between communities and governing bodies • Be proactive to empower the rights of all our citizens • Be transparent, accountable and maintain open communication • Be proactive in lobbying governments to subsidize Economic Development
ELECT GERALDINE MANSON FOR CITY COUNCILOR
250-618-1686 • geraldinemanson66@gmail.com Authorized by Geraldine Manson. Financial Agent Alan Howardson, 250-755-1316
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November 4, 2014 Nanaimo News Bulletin B15 15 Tuesday,Tuesday, November 4, 2014 Nanaimo News Bulletin
Nanaimo school district: trustee candidates STEPHANIE HIGGINSON What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
Alter the current budget planning process to include stakeholders in the process. We simply cannot keep cutting support workers and teachers. We need fresh eyes on the budget so we can keep students at the centre of every decision made. Work to build collaborative and meaningful relationships with the various stakeholders in district by developing a strategic approach to stakeholder engagement. Complete a review of the facilities renewal plan. The plan is flawed and it is costing our district millions of dollars. Every school that has been touched by this plan has been negatively impacted. The next round of closures under this plan are in the north end. We need to make sure that does not become a district-wide problem. How do you plan to work toward a balanced school district budget?
Cuts can no longer be made to student services and programs. Savings need to be in areas that do not directly impact classroom learning for our students. CATHERINE MORLEY What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
My No. 1 priority is child poverty and how this affects the learning of children; if elected I would donate my paycheck every six months to a different school with a high percent of low-income families to subsidize the breakfast and lunch programs. Space in French immersion. I would look at the policies around the lottery and how to make more spaces available for the high demand. Setting a more professional atmosphere in the schools while meeting the minimum instructional minutes set out by the province by ensuring the teachers are getting adequate professional training that doesn’t infringe on the children’s time with the teacher. How do you plan to work toward a balanced school district budget?
Reviewing what the largest expenses are in the district and investigating if they can be met in any less expensive ways. Also reviewing what assets are currently no longer needed and can be turned into funds to benefit the district’s goals.
KIM HOWLAND What three priorities are important to you?
Ensuring decisions are dedicated to the best interest of students, first and foremost. I will continually ask, “Is this good for our students across the district?” Continuing to support a collaborative environment and maintaining positive relationships with all stakeholders in a leadership manner that supports safe and respectful opportunities for all individuals and organizations to share their expertise, diverse ideas, knowledge and experiences. Discovering innovative ways to enhance community and parent engagement in our schools. How do you plan to work toward a balanced school budget?
I will take a blended approach that includes examining management’s recommendations, asking questions, discussing with stakeholders and doing my own research, to support possible recommendations to my fellow trustees. Legally and ethically we need to support our students by working toward a balanced budget that will represent the best outcomes within the funds provided.
ROSMY JEAN LOUIS What priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
I believe there must be a vigorous social cost-benefit analysis with extensive consultation with the public before a decision is to be made about school closures. And, most importantly, stakeholders’ views must be heard. Closing schools without a good understanding of its present and future social cost to society has far more reaching consequences than what has been documented. Kids end up spending more time on buses, putting them at disadvantages to other kids with school in their catchment area who can go to after-school programs and other activities that can further enhance their development. I intend to revisit all school closures within the last three years to determine if the proper due diligence was conducted in their closing because I believe some schools could have been saved. If elected, I will ensure the improvement of the quality of education by providing teachers with the most needed resources, finding optimal class sizes and access to technology.
DOT NEARY
LUCY OXMAN
What priorities are important to you?
What priorities are important to you?
The continuous improvement of student learning is always a top priority; it is the focus of the board’s vision, plans and goals. The district lays out student achievement results, district goals for improvement and what is being done toward reaching those goals. The board monitors and assesses progress towards achieving those goals, adjusting district goals and plans, as needed. In common with many other organizations, the district is experiencing the impact of the demographic shift, as more senior employees are opting to retire, so the implementation of a succession plan is a priority. How do you plan to work toward a balanced school district budget?
A $3.5-million budget shortfall is forecast for 2015-16, which means reducing costs and/or increasing revenues. The best strategies create permanent budget changes and, while progress has been made toward this objective, the board needs to continue to find enduring efficiencies at every level of the organization that are realistic and sustainable.
I offer a fresh perspective and new eyes on old issues, such as our budget. I am committed to working with parents, teachers, support staff and students to create the best public education possible for our district. How do you plan to work toward a balanced school district budget?
The community consultation process will identify priorities and needs. We cover a lot of ground in our district and each is unique. I will take into consideration the communities’ response when making budget decisions at the board table. I understand the budget must be balanced, but it is up to us as the board to decide how the money is spent to serve our students.
What do you think it takes to be an education leader in Nanaimo? Describe your leadership or co-working style.
Each trustee comes to the table with specific ideas and priorities but I will work toward making cohesive decisions that benefit our students. I believe work as a trustee would be an honour and I will make the best decisions possible, advocating on behalf of the voters and students.
SCOTT KIMLER What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
Governance – The current board defers to the administrative staff and represents administration, instead of representing communities and their values. When elected, I will embrace and encourage stakeholder engagement and proper community representation. I will challenge administrators to present alternatives and I will ask tough questions. Budget – Over the past decade or so, enrolment has declined by 10 per cent, staff and school admin have been cut by 20 per cent, but district administration has grown by 35 per cent. As trustee, I will champion moves to lower district administrative costs. Culture shift – Public education is under duress, from many directions (enrolment decline, aging facilities, increasing costs and limited provincial funding). Also, the reputation of SD68 among school districts isn’t good. I will focus on working with stakeholders to come up with creative and unique solution to help bolster morale, student outcomes and make SD68 the envy of the province. STEVE RAE What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
Better stakeholder engagement: We need to build better relationships with our partners in education. We need to improve our relationships with our stakeholder groups so we can start focusing on providing highquality education for our students. Democratic reform: We need to ensure that our board is open and responsive to the needs of the communities it serves. This is why the board of education exists. We need to change meeting formats and structures to ensure that the communities we serve can be heard. Fiscal responsibility: We need to start spending school district money like it is our own. We need to understand the full implications and costs of every major initiative started in our district. We need to start addressing the topheavy management structure in our district and start allocating resources with students in mind. We need to build, administer and maintain a budget that allows for excellence in education.
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Nanaimo school district: trustee candidates BILL ROBINSON What three priorities are important to you?
I will support efforts to improve our classroom size and composition challenges; I will focus on promoting the ongoing positive growth; I will continue my work to improve the graduation rate of our aboriginal students. How do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
I will continue my practice of meeting frequently with teachers, staff and parents to gather and digest ideas and represent them at the board table. As a full-time trustee, I have both the time and energy required to make a difference for our students and teachers. I will find new ways to publicly celebrate the many exciting successes achieved day after day by our students, teachers and other staff. In an effort to help aboriginal students feel more welcome in our system and therefore be more successful, I will continue to work toward integrating more Hul’qumi’num language and culture into our schools. The current aboriginal grad rate of 56 per cent is not acceptable and it does not paint a true picture of aboriginal ability and potential. TERRYLYNN SAUNDERS What priorities are important to you?
Governance is a big issue for me. Our new governance model abrogated some of our responsibilities to senior administration which I believe we need to revise to better reflect our publicly elected role. Dealing with poverty issues is a major priority for me considering Nanaimo is one of the cities with the highest family-poverty rates in B.C. and these children attend our schools. A child who comes to school unprepared, hungry and not properly clothed is a child who has difficulty learning. We need to expand our working relationship with other agencies and government that focus on family issues. How do you plan to work toward a balanced school district budget?
It is how and where we allocate our funds that make a difference. For the first time in my 18 years as a trustee, I did not support the last budget. I felt strongly we were cutting programs that helped our kids as well as programs that would extend the life of our facilities which are major public assets. I also felt we were top heavy in several areas.
MARK ROBINSON
NOAH ROUTLEY
What priorities are important to you?
What priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
Protecting students, staff, parents and visitors by implementing a solid plan that encompasses readiness for natural disasters, disease epidemics, traffic safety, and student security concerns utilizing ideas and contributions developed from our community. Protecting public interest by balancing funding across the entire district and not any one particular school. Protecting public education by ensuring that cuts to libraries, sports, and music programs are a thing of history by considering different funding formulas and that school trustees directly share the pain from cuts and closures.
I will increase overall stakeholder and community advocacy if elected. My mandate is to be available and accessible to constituents, bringing public concerns to the board. Now more than ever in our school district we need advocates with a heart and a powerful voice. Budget accountability and tough financial decisions need to be made with consultation from the people affected by our choices. I will not shy away from making decisions that better serve our children. I plan to increase tranparency between the superintendent, board and the public on how decisions are being made that affect the entire district with the present governance model. I will push for accountability within district management.
How do you plan to work toward a balanced school budget?
From the top, not the bottom: reduce the board from nine to seven, reduce trustees’ pay by the rate of declining enrolment, halt luxury hotel stays and limit out-of-town conferences, trustees who do not show up to meetings do not get paid. Identify creative opportunities to add education funding through every means at our disposal, for example enhancing our desire for the lucrative international student market. JEFF SOLOMON Why are you running for school trustee?
I have had concerns about the lack of engagement between the board and the community. Some decisions seem to be made in an arbitrary fashion that is not inclusive. The current facilities plan is a strong indicator of the disconnect between the board and the community. It may be time for new ideas and collaboration with the families who may be impacted. What three priorities are important to you and how do you intend to tackle these if elected?
Decisions should be made with a full understanding of the impact that they may have on the individual school and community. The local school is one of the main pillars of the community. I would like to make the board meetings accessible and welcoming to parents and include them in the process for making decisions. Collaboration should be the norm. Promote and enhance opportunities for extra-curricular activities. These activities are also important in children’s education and can be the highlight of a child’s day.
How do you plan to work toward a balanced school district budget?
File photo
Nanaimo-Ladysmith School District trustee candidates are setting priorities for better classroom learning outcomes.
Since 2001 the board has reduced classroom teachers by 20 per cent while increasing management and administrator positions. This leads to an imbalance of staffing levels which can be improved and savings found.
SHARON WELCH
BILL WINDLEY
What priorities are important to you?
What priorities are important to you?
First, I believe that collaboration is of fundamental importance within SD68 and with external stakeholders. We can achieve so much more together than we can by operating in silos. I hope to continue chairing the Anti-Vandalism Committee, working closely with the District Parent Advisory Committee in a community-wide anti-bullying campaign, and supporting the work of the Nanaimo-Ladysmith Schools Foundation. Second, we always need to be looking for potential administrative efficiencies, while providing an adequate level of support for our front-line staff. Third, I will continue to strongly support arts-based programs, sports and trades programs, as these programs can lead to greater student engagement and graduation rates How do you plan to work toward a balanced school district budget?
Board members should come to the table with open minds and careful preparation to debate staff’s recommendations, ask questions, contribute ideas and ultimately approve the finalized balanced budget.
The largest part of the budget is fixed so my priority would be to work co-operatively with the school board members to bring a focus to those programs I feel would deliver the best value in quality versus cost. To explore ways to effectively support/educate high-risk students so they are less likely to end up in our prison system. I would tackle this by teaming up with like-minded volunteer groups that have a proven success rate in this field. To bring back some of the optimism that the public school system used to have. I would listen to the concerns of parents, students, teachers and counsellors. How do you plan to work toward a balanced school district budget?
I plan to explore ways to earn money from some of the school district buildings.
What do you think it takes to be an education leader in Nanaimo?
I believe it takes a good listener, good communication skills, a good team player and someone able to put their interests aside and represent the people that voted for them.
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November 4, 2014 Nanaimo News Bulletin B17 17 Tuesday,Tuesday, November 4, 2014 Nanaimo News Bulletin
District of Lantzville: mayoral candidates JOE BRATKOWSKI
JACK DE JONG
COLIN HAIME
Occupation/background:
Occupation/background:
Occupation/background:
Over 20 years as a small business owner and 15 years on the corporate side. Over 40 years on various boards, striving to keep its dues and taxes reflective of our economic times. Why are you running for public office?
It is time and I am ready. I have been a councillor for nine years and prior to that a trustee for 12 more. I have been in the community for over 35 years and know Lantzville and its unique characteristics. What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues if elected?
Water, downtown revitalization and rebuilding the trust between council and residents. The first task will be a strategic planning session with staff and council to determine our priorities, followed with a public information meeting for input. How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
Carefully controlling all costs. I would like to bring municipal salaries more in line with the private sector, contracting out wherever possible, working with different levels of government as partners, utilize new technology to reduce costs, and raise revenues through sponsorship activities. What do you think it takes to lead Lantzville? Describe your leadership or co-working style.
I see the role of a mayor as a facilitator. We must work together to pinpoint our challenges, develop positive solutions, and achieve our goals in the interests of the community.
I am a graduate of Loyola and Concordia University, married with three children and four grandchildren. I enjoyed a successful 35-year technical career with Bell Canada in engineering and operations management and with Bell Canada International as a consultant and director of operations. I have lived in Lantzville for the last 23 years. What three priorities are important to you?
Provide constructive leadership to staff and, in co-operation with council, strengthen our ability to manage the various services which under the legislation are the responsibility of the municipality i.e. environmental protection and sustainability, infrastructure (roads, water, sewers) and bylaw enforcement. Ensure that the community and council’s various service objectives and desires are consistent with our financial ability. Facilitate and encourage the provisioning of senior and affordable housing.
How do you plan to tackle these issues if elected?
Our citizens and our employees are our most important asset. It is important to bridge the various opinions and build consensus. I believe that my last three years as mayor have shown that I have that ability. My prior work experience in capital management and budget management has proven constructive. With Lantzville’s small and primarily residential tax base, every dollar counts. I will continue to work with the community, council and staff to ensure value for money.
CITY SPENDING WE CAN
AFFORD
HOLD ON TAXES
CORE REVIEW
Chartered accountant; university professor and facilitator, CPA Canada; Lantzville mayor, eight years.
What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
A water agreement for all Lantzvillagers. While the basic ideas behind the recently signed water agreement are acceptable, the exclusion of hundreds of Lantzville residents to the benefit of developers is not. The priority is to revise the agreement, with Nanaimo’s permission, to focus new connections to those Lantzville residents with water challenges before developers and then concentrate development in the village core instead of the Foothills. Protecting the vision and lifestyle of Lantzville. The community plan is the framework for the future of Lantzville. The changes that a developer demands in that framework could result in a Lantzville we do not recognize or desire. My priority is in protecting the vision by considering decisions in relation to the community plan created by Lantzvillagers. Introducing a transparency/accountability policy for council. Council has a moral and ethical obligation to conduct the community’s business in public and with disclosure to the residents. My 60-day priority is to introduce a policy whereby council is required to release in camera documents and hold town hall meetings where residents can openly discuss areas of concerns and issues of the day.
CONSTRUCTIVE LEADERSHIP
Community Driven, Pragmatic, Fair and Accessible
STOP WASTING OUR MONEY
JIM TAYLOR JimTaylorForCouncil.com
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The last three years as your Mayor have been a wonderful experience, sometimes frustrating but overall rewarding. I again ask for your support this election to continue on the path of sound, stable, inclusive governance. Priorities include: clean water to all residents, seniors and affordable housing, core revitalization and sewer expansion. Lantzville has one of the lowest per capita tax revenues in BC and I intend to keep it that way. Democracy works when we all participate. Get out and Vote: Lantzville will work even better with your participation.
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District of Lantzville: council candidates JOHN COULSON
BRIAN DEMPSEY
WARREN GRIFFEY
Why are you running for office?
What priorities are important to you?
Why are you running for office?
I am deeply concerned about the ability of Lantzville to remain an independent community. What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
Fiscal management – There are substantial tax savings available to the residents if the district and council were to practise sound fiscal management. This involves clearly distinguishing between needs and wants, just like in our own households. Water – I suggest Lantzville takes a pause on water. We need to identify the problems and needs, review all options available – not just Nanaimo, identify the long-term plan and costs, consult the residents, conduct a referendum. Lantzville does need water, but let’s implement a solution that meets the needs of existing users rather than new development. Cultural/philosophical change within the district office – There are some critical issues within the district office and I question whether the chief administrative officer position is functioning effectively for the community. JENNIFER MILLBANK What three priorities are important to you?
Continue the community discussions about water. Now that we have concluded an historic water deal, we can look at how it should be implemented, if at all. Increase opportunities for families. Lantzville is a great place to raise kids, because taxes are low, and life is a little bit simpler. What we don’t have are the programs to match. Our recreation programs are largely directed at seniors, and parents and youth have largely been pushed to the sidelines. Revitalization of the downtown core. As the chairwoman of the Village Commercial Core Improvement Committee, we have been looking at a comprehensive plan for changes to the downtown. How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
I have been the most fiscally conservative member of council. I have voted against staff increases, tried (unsuccessfully) to roll back management staff salaries, reduced permissive tax exemptions and have pushed for greater accountability in the parks and rec budget.
I will continue to work towards achieving the goals of the Official Community Plan, providing community water so that all citizens of Lantzville have clean, safe drinking water and improved fire protection with additional fire hydrants, expanding community sewer as needed, providing opportunities for new housing for seniors and young families. Based on my years of experience, I will work with council to continue to obtain the best value for our tax dollar. How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
Council must establish a strategic plan, short-term and long-term. Asset management is a key tool for council to use when making decisions regarding taxes and spending. I will encourage council to follow Asset Management B.C. guidelines when considering budget items. What do you think it takes to lead Lantzville?
Decision-making is most effective in a consensus-based, respectful climate. I am open to listening to the views of others. I do my research and then I base my decision on the information I have received. ROD NEGRAVE What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
Upgrading/enhancing the village core: The Village Commercial Core Improvement Plan needs to be presented to and confirmed by residents. The challenge will be how to implement this plan, while retaining the current village character, and determining the most effective zoning and infrastructure investments to achieve this. Water supply/distribution: The biggest question facing Lantzville – it will largely determine any future development and the longterm sustainability of the community. We need to analyze the security of our water supply and determine how incremental supplies from Nanaimo will be used to relieve current water-supply pressure on residents, be used as a reserve against the future, or support limited strategic development, such as seniors’ housing in the community. Development: Development is linked to water supply. We should not see much new development in Lantzville due to limitations on our aquifer.
I am concerned about the cost of this administration this year; it is projected that salaries will hit $1.2 million for a staff of 14. I am concerned about a five-year financial plan that will run a deficit of $200,000 every year for the next five years. I am concerned with increased taxes, a staggering 29 per cent increase in 2015 alone.
What three priorities are important to you?
Taxes, increased density, administration accountability.
How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
First I would like to say that I am excited that a water deal has been struck with the City of Nanaimo. However, I think there are some issues with it that leave Lantzville taxpayers in a very precarious position. I would like to see the original water deal sent to Lantzville back in 2012 and shelved by this administration for 16 months be revisited.
What do you think it takes to lead Lantzville? Describe your leadership or co-working style.
This is a time for experience, careful consideration of issues, patience, and understanding. DOUG PARKHURST What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
Plain and simple, spending in Lantzville is out of control. The current council has let spending grow out of control. I plan to fix this by reviewing all spending in the district and reduce it to a sustainable level. Fixing how council works. The current council had promised for a year and a half to consult on the water deal. But they signed the deal and are now telling residents about it. A lack of checks and balances. The current council has put forth a new agreement with Foothills. This agreement strips away many of the safeguards that the community wanted. I will work to restore these by advocating for the affected residents. How do you plan on managing spending and taxes?
The first step is to exercise common sense. Don’t take on projects if you don’t need to do it. Review all spending. I want to eliminate unnecessary spending. Given the growth in spending over the last three years, there will be areas for reduction.
DENISE HAIME What three priorities are important to you?
Bringing spending and taxes under control. Over the past three years, administrative wages have increased by 30 per cent, sewer rates increased by 102 per cent and tax increases have been avoided only by using prior year savings. I did not support these items because it is an unsustainable approach to finances. Implementation of a water agreement. The water agreement with Nanaimo has challenges, it does not provide a water solution for hundreds of residents, places priority on connections for development, not existing residents, and yet will cost all existing residents more in taxes. My immediate priority is to propose amendments; the next step would be determining the connection schedule for those areas of Lantzville where existing residents need water most urgently. Retention of Lantzville’s unique character. This priority will be to ensure that the pressures of development do not change the character of Lantzville. The OCP expresses this character and I will base my decisions on the wishes of the community. DAVE SCOTT What three priorities are important to you?
Water: The lack of additional water supply has been an issue in the community for more than 20 years. Many options for water have been explored but none have proved to be workable. I believe that the connection to Nanaimo needs to proceed. Lantzville also needs to explore how to cost effectively help residents address water issues in those areas with wells that have poor water quality. Sewer: Expansion of the sewer system to include the Winchelsea area needs to proceed. Studies of other areas experiencing problems with septic field failure need to be initiated, to determine the feasibility of extending sewer to those areas. Parks: As a strong believer in parks, I believe that the Foothills park needs to be acquired at the earliest opportunity. Lantzville also needs more pedestrian connectivity in the community and I feel one of the highestpriority connections should be along Ware Road. This will provide connectivity between upper and lower Lantzville.
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November 4, 2014 Nanaimo News Bulletin B19 19 Tuesday,Tuesday, November 4, 2014 Nanaimo News Bulletin
Regional District of Nanaimo: director candidates ED MAYNE What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
The three top priorities for the Area E director are communications, consultation and water. These three are interwoven. We need to unite this community instead of having the three separate areas we now have. If elected I would ask the chairs of all the various resident associations and the First Nations chief to attend a monthly meeting in order to discuss issues pertaining to electoral Area E. We will discuss upcoming matters and I will bring the consensus of this group forward to the board. Water is becoming more and more of an important issue in this area. We need to have strong communication and consultation with the residents so that informed decisions can be made about our water supply. The concerns of the residents need to be listened to and addressed. We need to have more down-to-earth, non-technical discussions so that the lay person can understand. ROSMY JEAN LOUIS Why are you running for public office?
If elected as RDN director for Area A, I will be in a better position to promote sustainable economic development for our area by allocating available scarce resources efficiently. We have economic problems that need real solutions. What priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
The people of Cassidy do not have a community centre; their only place of gathering is the pub. If elected, I will make sure that the people of Cassidy get their gathering place and the best arrangement for their kids to go to school. The Cedar area has been under a water moratorium since 2010, which prevents existing residents from devel-
ALEC McPHERSON
Re-elect BOB ROGERS
What three priorities are important to you?
In 2016, following community consultation, I hope to see a pedestrian/ equestrian bridge constructed over the Nanaimo River linking both the North Cedar and South Wellington sections of the regional Morden Colliery Trail. When combined with a regional walking/cycling trail, this will provide an exciting experience for both tourists and locals in Area A. There is a great need to provide basic recreational facilities designed to eliminate the need for children and parents to travel to the City of Nanaimo to remain active. A multi-purpose sport box, for example, children’s playgrounds and a gymnasium rank high in the needs of our communities. Two other items high on my list include assisting the North Cedar Improvement District in the lifting of the moratorium on the supply of water to new developments, and the completion of a Local Governance Restructure Study.
What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
GORDON WIEBE
Addressing Area E’s water needs. Support the cost-effective implementation of the Englishman River Water Service efforts to proceed with sustainable bulk water delivery enhancement through the planned new intake, treatment plant and distribution project. Work diligently within the RDN in conjunction with Parksville to obtain funding from the province and Ottawa to develop a timely and equal three-way cost-sharing agreement. Controlling spending in line with residents’ service-level demands and their ability and willingness to fund through controlled taxes. Proactively ensure the implementation by both the developer and the RDN of the Fairwinds Schooner Cove and Lakes District community plans within the terms of the approved phased development agreements consistent with approved plans and standards.
What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
Listening to and working with the residents of Nanoose Bay (Area E) is always a priority. Water is the No. 1 issue – whether on the Nanoose water system, a community well or a private well. We need to protect and preserve our water. We need a good plan. Second is to respond to the petition near and around a well that was drilled on Parker Road. We need to find a solution to this situation. The third priority is to keep our taxes down, reviewing the budget to see where we can save. No to funding the Island rail for starters. How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
Reviewing the budget on a regular basis. Our biggest expenditure will be our water system. We must ensure that there is a good maintenance plan in place for our infrastructure. Control any unnecessary spending.
Re-elect Re-elect Re-elect
oping their lands and taking advantage of the secondary suite bylaw recently adopted by the RDN. If elected, I will use the money from the Union of B.C. Municipalities that have been assigned to our area to partially fund the water reservoir and will support the North Cedar Improvement District’s application for UBCM funding for capital projects through the Regional District of Nanaimo to reduce the tax burden of current ratepayers.
Re-elect
✓ Building trusting
relationships ✓ Improving District accountability ✓ Being responsive to people’s concerns “I am honoured to serve this community”
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Nanaimo News Bulletin Tuesday, November 4, 2014
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