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Abbotsford News
Friday, October 12, 2018 B1
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Abbotsford News
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On October 20th
Les BARKMAN
for COUNCIL I will c continue working full-time for all Abbotsford full-tim residents and will remain reside indep independent and available. EXPERIENCE • 44 years of continuous service for the City of Abbotsford. • 34 years working in public works, interacting with many departments. • 10 years (three terms) on city council. • Supervisor of Roads and Sanitation • On Transportation Committee. • Abbotsford Parks, Recreation, Culture.
FAMILY & COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Family and community involvement is very important in our family’s life. Our family includes: • Darnell & Christina + four grandchildren • Tyson & Kim + two grandchildren For 40 years, Les has been involved in community basketball and fastball as a coach, player, and basketball referee. Les & Elaine are active members of Northview Community Church. Authorized by Financial Agent Les Barkman, barktoyou@shaw.ca
Abbotsford News
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MAYORAL CANDIDATES
Henry Braun
First elected as a councillor in 2011, Braun was elected mayor in 2014. Prior to entering politics, he ran his family’s rail construction business.
Trevor Eros
Eros runs an event-planning business and was previously GM of Finnegan’s Pub. He also is an independent professional wrestler.
Moe Gill Gill has served on Abbotsford council for 22 years. A retired berry farmer, Gill was also an accomplished amateur wrestler.
What are the three most pressing issues facing Abbotsford, and how would you address them? A: Widening of Highway 1 – continue to advocate with senior provincial and federal Ministers B: Disrupting gangs – continue to educate our youth down to the Grade 4 level so that they are aware of the dangers (death or jail) of getting sucked into gang life. C: Excessive speeding and other traffic violations – continue to advocate for red-light cameras. Most accidents occur at major intersections. What public safety issues need more attention, and what would you do to
push for action? Gangs and drugs – refer to answer B above. What is one capital project that should be prioritized, and why? The addition of a collector well to increase our water supply because we need to add water supply approximately five to seven years from now. What parks, recreation or cultural amenity should receive more city money? Our PRC Master Plan and five-year financial plan lay out what happens when. If grants become available, items will be moved up. What should the city do to increase
the availability of affordable homes with space for families? The OCP, Plan 200k and the Infill guidelines provide a broad range of housing options that were not available previously. As mayor, if you had five minutes alone in a room with Justin Trudeau what would you say? That Highway 1 needs to be widened yesterday. Without that widening, efficient public transit will not happen. As mayor, if you had five minutes alone in a room with John Horgan, what would you say? That Highway 1 needs to be wid-
ened yesterday. Without that widening, efficient public transit will not happen. What should be done to give voice to those who feel under-represented, or unheard, by government? The changes implemented for public engagement, especially for the new OCP and Plan 200k have been outstanding. Obviously, there is always room for improvement and we are looking at how to improve two-way communication.
What are the three most pressing issues facing Abbotsford, and how would you address them? A: Afffordable living – by supporting developments that offer lower rental rates and also offering incentives to land owners B: Reduction in homelessness – by supporting community-driven ideas and following up with the results. Be active in the community to ensure we are providing information to the homeless and those in need of services for rehabilitation, as well as improving on those services. C: Urgency to move forward on initiatives based on needs for the present, not exclusively the future. We are doing
very well in some areas but need to discuss and implement ideas sooner and have more residents involved in these processes. What public safety issues need more attention, and what would you do to push for action? Traffic and pedestrian safety, sharps cleanup, and crime prevention by providing more safety and bylaw enforcement and adding sharp boxes/scheduled public cleanups. What is one capital project that should be prioritized, and why? I don’t feel strongly enough about any specific project at this time to prioritize one over the other (of the many capital projects from the city’s list).
What parks, recreation or cultural amenity should receive more city money? Arts Council What should the city do to increase the availability of affordable homes with space for families? Create developments with building-specific rental caps and offer tax reductions/incentives to land owners in exchange for rental reductions. As mayor, if you had five minutes alone in a room with Justin Trudeau what would you say? I’d thank him for stepping up to show that a new generation can also be represented in leadership and ask him about what he thinks about B.C.’s role in the landscape of Canada’s future.
As councillor, if you had five minutes alone in a room with John Horgan, what would you say? I would ask about his challenges when making decisions that impact all residents/visitors and what his advice for me would be if ever I made the leap from municipal to provincial leadership. What should be done to give voice to those who feel under-represented, or unheard, by government? We should elect members of local government that WILL represent and listen to them, as well as present their thoughts in relevant decision-making conversations. Everyone living in the city deserves to be heard equally.
What are the three most pressing issues facing Abbotsford, and how would you address them? A: Safety of our community B: Homelessness / affordable housing C: Transportation These three issues are complicated, and, as mayor, I will need to encourage open discussion, debate and seek collaborative realistic solutions. I will need to create an environment whereby all three levels of government, fire and police department, community and church groups are aligned and working together to achieve positive results. What public safety issues need more attention, and what would you do to push for action? Four areas of focus:
1. Gangs 2. Crime related to homeless 3. Crime related to mental illness 4. Address additional resources required by our police and fire departments As mayor... (word limit exceeded) What is one capital project that should be prioritized, and why? A capital project that will improve safety and health for all citizens (such as a homeless village, policing, fire department) What parks, recreation or cultural amenity should receive more city money? Park, recreation and cultural amenities are fundamental in bringing our community together. Unfortunately, there is only so much city funds avail-
able. It is important that these funds are shared fairly. What should the city do to increase the availability of affordable homes with space for families? Find reasonable ways to provide incentives for developers and rental owners to provide affordable housing. Further, explore allowing a second dwelling on ALR land if a parcel is three acres or larger. As mayor, if you had five minutes alone in a room with Justin Trudeau what would you say? How to work together to improve the safety of our communities / country, homelessness, affordable housing, health care and transportation. These are priorities we must focus on.
As councillor, if you had five minutes alone in a room with John Horgan, what would you say? How to work together to improve the safety of our communities / province, homelessness, affordable housing, health care and transportation. These are the priorities we must focus on. What should be done to give voice to those who feel under-represented, or unheard, by government? One of my natural characteristics is that I am approachable, sincere and welcoming. This is the environment that needs to be embraced at city hall so citizens feeling under-represented or unheard begin to feel comfortable to voice their opinions.
THE CLEAR CHOICE FOR ABBOTSFORD COUNCIL
PATRICIA
INDEPENDENT
ROSS
Over 2 decades of leadership experience.
✓
VOTE
OCTOBER 20
Authorized by Financial Agent, Christine Eden reden@uniserve.com
Dao Tran, owner of the Abby Bike Shop, has lived in Abbotsford for 33 years. He arrived in Canada at the age of 21 after escaping communist Vietnam and spending time in a Hong Kong refugee camp. Tran worked at The Bike Shop for 32 years until the owner retired, and then opened his own business on Gladwin Rd. Tran is a member of Living Hope Christian Reformed Church where he volunteers frequently, and it doesn’t stop there. Tran volunteers wherever extra help is needed, such as John Maclure Elementary, Agrifair, and taking part in Bike to Work Week. This spring, Tran received the ‘Golden Sprocket Award’ for his outstanding volunteerism, which he displays proudly in his store. “I’ve lived and worked in this community for 33 years, and I am grateful for the freedom I have in Canada and Abbotsford. I love to serve this community, and if elected I will work hard for all Abbotsford citizens.” - Dao Tran
VOTE DAO TRAN FOR CITY COUNCIL
B4 Friday, October 12, 2018
Abbotsford News
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MAYORAL CANDIDATES
Eric Nyvall Nyvall is a an Abbotsford accountant. He and his family are diehard Seattle Seahawks fans.
Gerda Peachey Peachey is a community activist and former banker and business owner. She also ran for the mayor’s seat in 2011.
Nadine Snow Snow has lived in Abbotsford for more than two decades. She is Indigenous and of Ojibwe ancestry.
What are the three most pressing issues facing Abbotsford, and how would you address them? A: Crime/gangs: Meet the gang challenge head on with enforcement. Provide valid programs for the young men to learn mentorship and accountability to keep our boys out of the gangs. B: Homelessness: Provide a site for the homeless to stay that includes running water, bathrooms, and the ability to lock up/secure their belongings. That will better serve these people and clean up our parks. C: Economic development: Start a new chapter in Abbotsford. Waive the business licence fee. Aggressive-
ly market Abbotsford’s aerospace, manufacturing and farming infrastructures in place. What public safety issues need more attention, and what would you do to push for action? Provide more resources for police to battle the gangs and murders. What is one capital project that should be prioritized, and why? The development of the Ledgeview Golf clubhouse. It’s city-owned, and the society has expended their reserves. What parks, recreation or cultural amenity should receive more city money? Rotary stadium’s three supple-
mental fields should get lights. The quality fields lay largely dormant in the evenings without them. What should the city do to increase the availability of affordable homes with space for families? Get ahead of the development process. Properly staff the departments and mandate a 12-week approval. As mayor, if you had five minutes alone in a room with Justin Trudeau what would you say? I’d ask him if he ever thought the blowback on the small business tax increases would be so huge. Then I’d ask him how he balances being a young father with the job. As mayor, if you had five minutes
alone in a room with John Horgan, what would you say? I’d talk about our transport issues South of the Fraser. Both #1 and Rail for the Valley. What should be done to give voice to those who feel under-represented, or unheard, by government? I door knocked at 9,000+ homes this campaign. Councillors can learn from that kind of direct engagement. Actually listen!
What are the three most pressing issues facing Abbotsford, and how would you address them? A: Council seems bent on the destruction of the last single-family affordable housing. Once friendly, lovely old communities are giving way to monster houses that way too often pay for themselves with illegal suite rentals. Enforce the bylaws equitably. B: City organizational charts show the public at the top, but that isn’t how things really work. Too much of where tax dollars are spent is kept from public view, like real data on Spectra’s running of the Abbotsford Centre, and now the deal with the Fraser Valley Bandits. Council should not involve the public purse with private professional sports and entertainment businesses. C: Despite the swelling ranks of people gainfully employed in “The Misery Industry,” the numbers of
homeless due to mental illness and addictions are swelling. Don’t continue to supply broken humanity with the poisons that destroy them. Work on freeing people, rather than ensuring they stay bound by chains of addiction. What public safety issues need more attention, and what would you do to push for action? Addicts steal to feed their addictions. People are hurt by volatile attacks of addicts. Speeding cars have become the norm. We don’t need more money spent, just enforce the laws. What is one capital project that should be prioritized, and why? Use the fire insurance payout to rebuild Ledgeview. If members want a bigger and better clubhouse, require the golfers to raise funds to pay the difference. What parks, recreation or cultural amenity should receive more city
money? My Rock and Gem Club was promised a home 10 years ago when the public was asked to approve the grandiose Plan A. Another broken promise. What should the city do to increase the availability of affordable homes with space for families? Make a level playing field for developers and builders, instead of allowing cheaters to prosper. There is little incentive here to provide affordable housing where scofflaws avoid regulations. As mayor, if you had five minutes alone in a room with Justin Trudeau what would you say? I would remind our prime minister that he is a mere mortal who occupies his earthly pedestal for a time, but God our creator is on His throne forever. Trudeau harms himself and Canadians when he works to erase God from the public square.
As mayor, if you had five minutes alone in a room with John Horgan, what would you say? I would suggest it is safer to transport Alberta’s oil by pipeline than by thousands of daily trains. And I’d ask him why his desired proportional representation is couched in such an oblique question. It looks suspiciously like he wants to confuse referendum voters. What should be done to give voice to those who feel under-represented, or unheard, by government? Average citizens are “The Unheard.” Revisit the extreme limits placed on giving the public a voice. Four delegations/year for a 10-minute presentation to be begged for 10 days in advance, and maybe denied. Public meetings are a sham as decisions seem mostly made behind closed doors.
What are the three most pressing issues facing Abbotsford, and how would you address them? A: Affordable/low barrier housing – Construction of transitional housing projects, low-barrier housing, subsidized housing. B: Health care – create better followup programs for all health issues, such as liaisons at hospitals, community support workers, outreach workers on site 24/7. Create three onsite treatment centres on the hospital grounds: 1) non-life-threatening 2) mental health and 3) addiction/ recovery. C: Lack of awareness of our residents of issues/changes happening in our city that may impact them. I would implement the use of existing advertising mediums to raise public awareness and gain more input from residents on how they feel about what is planned for, and presently adopted by our city, and to make our deci-
sions based on that input. What public safety issues need more attention, and what would you do to push for action? Crime reduction – employ more outreach workers and non-affiliated liaisons to give and take information without the person(s) providing information to be afraid to do so, and to supply ... (word limit exceeded) What is one capital project that should be prioritized, and why? Road repair/construction inter-city - safety of pedestrians/cyclists, accident reduction, improved transit stops What parks, recreation or cultural amenity should receive more city money? Revenue generated from park and amenity rentals support this. More public awareness of, and ease of access to, information about would this, I feel, be better support at this time. By getting the input of our
citizens, decisions can be made with a broader sense of our community’s needs. What should the city do to increase the availability of affordable homes with space for families? Create city-owned/managed and low-to-moderate-income, low-barrier housing beginning immediately. These could be revenue-generating proposals for the city and need not be a large expense to taxpayers. As mayor, if you had five minutes alone in a room with Justin Trudeau what would you say? How much federal funding can we expect to see in the creation of affordable housing in our city? What will you do to support a larger focus on recycling programs to make inclusive dwellings such as apartments, condos, strata-owned residences? Would you support greater transparency in government, that is inclusive of the provincial ... (word limit exceeded)
As mayor, if you had five minutes alone in a room with John Horgan, what would you say? How much provincial support can we expect in resolving the housing/ homeless crisis in our city? What will you do to support a larger focus on recycling programs to make inclusive dwellings such as apartments,condos, strata-owned residences? Would you support greater transparency in government, that is inclusive of the provincial… (limit exceeded) What should be done to give voice to those who feel under-represented, or unheard, by government? By creating a better communication system to share information with our citizens to hear their ideas and concerns, we can make more of our residents feel heard and represented.
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Abbotsford News
Friday, October 12, 2018 B5
D R O F S T O B B A KEEP D R A W R O F G N MOVI
R O Y A M R O F N U A R B Y R N E H RE-ELECT
Y C N E R A P S N A R T E R O M S B O J E R MO T I S N A R T MORE n.ca u a r B y r n e H t a Learn more
HENRY BRAUN Authorized by Hank Kroeker, Financial Agent | BC Tel: 604-855-2648
B6 Friday, October 12, 2018
Abbotsford News
Bruce Banman
Jas Anand
Les Barkman
www.abbynews.com
Sandy Blue
Kelly Chahal
Vince Dimanno
What are the three most pressing issues facing Abbotsford, and how would you address them? A: affordability B: homeless
A: Good paying jobs. We need an economic development strategy to attract the jobs of the future to Abbotsford, which include high-tech, aerospace, and value-added ag-food to name a few. B: Crime: Currently many residents are fearful we will once again become Canada’s murder capital. We need to engage our youth ... (exceeded word count)
A: Traffic, enforcement of speed limits, distracted drivers, crosswalk non-compliance. B: Homeless issue with wrap-around services to deal with mental health and addictions. C: Gang issues and giving youth positive activities in our schools, sports teams, and faith-based gathering places as partners with our Parks, Recreation and Culture Department.
A: This is a great city. Why do we still have a grass-is-always-greener attitude? B: We are part of a region, so must continue relationship-building with senior government and neighbours for funding. C: Need to be more inclusive and welcoming.
A: Ensuring we have the infrastructure – including housing, recreation and facilities – in place to meet the needs of a growing community. B: Ensuring we plan for the maintenance of our assets. C: Working on complete community: including social justice issues, assisting vulnerable people, bridging gaps between cultural groups.
A: Highest property tax rate in the Lower Mainland. B: Water rate increase without any justification. C: Both of these compound the issue of affordable housing.
What parks, recreation or cultural amenity should receive more city money? Sports facilities all around town.
Most of our amenities are aging, so they all need our attention, and prioritized. We need to talk to our federal government so we receive the same treatment as other regions... (exceeded word count)
DeLair Park, little league park with second park for provincial to Canadian tournaments, and bring a Pacific Coast team similar as Victoria HarbourCats. Connect Discovery Trail, put more money in culture budget.
For a city our size, Abbotsford has been well-served with parks and recreation facilities. We need to focus on building arts, culture and heritage assets, including a Black box Theatre.
Need for more youth and senior-related recreational and cultural resources, as indicated in our plans which we unanimously adopted. Now we need to see them implemented.
We have major shortages in sports fields and swimming pools. Instead of millions on all-weather turf that kids must pay to use, we need volume to serve the growing population.
What should the city do to increase the availability of affordable homes with space for families? Not develop or tear down older buildings for new… Keep for cheaper affordable housing.
I think we need to look at our DCCs (development cost charges).
On October 20th RE-ELECT
DAVE
LOEWEN To City Council
EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST. DaveFLoewen
councillorloewen
DaveFLoewen
Dave Loewen
F.A Dave Loewen - dfloew33@gmail.com - www.daveloewen.com
Continue with infill not over-fill. The houses are too big on city lots, which are not affordable without suites so people have two suites in their houses to pay for their mortgage. Suite rents are not affordable.
Time is money. We must continue to streamline processes to provide a range of housing sooner. Multi-family more affordable; but need to improve transit and reduce multi-family residential parking requirements.
Streamline processes to encourage housing which meets the needs of a variety of family types. Ensure housing and transportation meets the changing needs of a diverse community.
We must stop waiting for developers and owners to volunteer affordable housing and begin making it a mandatory part of our city plan.
Vote to end the rush to destroy affordable neighbourhoods. Vote for by-law enforcement without bias. Vote for transparency and accountability.
Vote
PEACHEY for mayor
F.A. Gerda Peachey - gerdapeachey@gmail.com
Abbotsford News
www.abbynews.com
Brenda Falk
Aird Flavelle
Harvey Jongsma
Friday, October 12, 2018 B7
Dave Loewen
Harmit Manocha
Paul Redekopp
What are the three most pressing issues facing Abbotsford, and how would you address them? A: Building foundations of vision and leadership to implement plans that have been developed through OCP and master plans. B: Building a complete community where everyone is welcome and has a home. C: Ensuring businesses, families and youth have a vibrant, safe community to call home.
A: Multi-modal transportation, including walking, scooters, bicycles, transit. B: Abundant housing of all types – with appropriate urban parks and trails to suit. C: The new high-tech economy and all the jobs that it brings with it.
A: homelessness B: crime C: available land for development while preserving farmland
A: Manage rapid growth responsibly without burdening property taxpayers unreasonably (includes housing). B: Resourcing our police and fire rescue departments appropriately to ensure our community is as safe as possible. C: Providing employment lands for rapidly growing population.
A: Gang violence, specifically youth violence B: Drug crisis C: Homelessness
A: Affordable housing– look at best practices around the country and duplicate it in Abbotsford. B: Taxes – a review of property, commercial and business taxes. C: Crime on our streets – engage with parents, volunteers, police and bylaw enforcement to find better ways to resolve our current situation.
What parks, recreation or cultural amenity should receive more city money? Sports and culture are incredibly important to youth and adults alike. Needs identified in the master plans will determine how we develop our amenities. Funding opportunities will determine how.
1. Heritage Abbotsford (Trethewey House) and the Abbotsford Arts Council could do so much more with an extraordinarily small amount of additional funding. 2. Parkland acquisitions for OCP’s proposed high-density areas.
All capital expenditures are already queued within the adopted master plans, following significant public input.
1. Increased use of housing co-ops and rental-only zoning. 2. Density bonusing and rental minimums of three-bedroom family units and built-in daycare. 3. Normalize tri- and quadplexes on residential lots.
Encourage infill and allow suites wherever possible (already underway) and allow flexibility in minimum floor space for apartments.
MRC should get more money because it should be on par with ARC.
Until I look at the books and determine the needs of all amenities, I have no answer. However, I recognize the need for more sporting amenities and fields.
What should the city do to increase the availability of affordable homes with space for families? Build on a strong local economy to ensure residents have the ability to afford housing. Encouraging a variety of building types to meet the diverse needs of families.
Work with community services and developers to find and create affordable homes.
Give incentives for developers to build affordable homes within their complexes. These homes may look the same on the outside but differ inside to save overall costs.
Candidates skew older than city’s population Women under-represented among those running for council in 2014
Tyler OLSEN Abbotsford News
The 24 candidates running for council and mayor in Abbotsford are serving to represent a city that they, as a group, are reflective of in some ways – but not in many other aspects. The News asked the candidates for their ages, places of birth, the years they have lived in Canada, the type of housing they live in, and how they get around town. Abbotsford has roughly 40,000 people aged 18 to 40, representing about 36 per cent of the city’s voting
age population. But just four of the 24 people running for council or mayor are in their 20s or 30s. On the flip side, nine candidates were aged 60 or older. That left the median age of Abbotsford candidates around 54 – about 10 years older than the city’s actual average age (we had to make some guesses because one candidate gave an age range and another was late in responding). Abbotsford is also a city of immigrants and, in that respect, the candidates are more representative – eight, or one-third, of those run-
ning were born outside of Canada. That tracks relatively closely with the 27 per cent of Abbotsford residents who came from another country. The candidates are no strangers to Abbotsford, though. Every person
running for office, except one, has lived in the city for more than 20 years. That may reflect their average ages; the one person who has lived here the shortest amount of time is also the only candidate in his 20s – Josh Reynolds. The candidates also reflect just how car-dependent Abbotsford is: Only two don’t count a personal vehicle as their main mode of transportation (Dao Tran uses his bike, and Trevor Eros gets around using transit). Four use some sort of electric vehicle. And while half of Abbotsford resi-
dents live in a house, with the rest living in apartments and townhouses, the vast majority – 75 per cent – of the city’s council and mayor candidates live in single-family homes. Finally, there’s one big area where the 2018 crop of council candidates doesn’t look anything like the general block of voters: gender. Just four of the 18 council candidates are women. Those four, as it happens, are all incumbents. Of the 11 newcomers trying to win a spot as a councillor, none are women. The mayoral side of things is markedly better, with two women running.
B8 Friday, October 12, 2018
Josh Reynolds
Abbotsford News
Patricia Ross
Dave Sidhu
www.abbynews.com
Lawrence Tilley
Ross Siemens
Dao Tran
What are the three most pressing issues facing Abbotsford, and how would you address them? A: Housing – lowest rental vacancy rate in Canada (2017). Rising purchase prices. B: Homelessness – empty promises in the last election; homelessness has gone up 79 per cent since then C: Crime – ensuring our residents feel safe in their homes and neighbours is a necessity.
A: Transportation: Hwy. 1 congestion affects our economy, health and quality of life. B: Balancing quality of life, environmental preservation with growth. C: Opioid crisis.
A: Housing affordability B: Transportation C: Seniors
Aging, booming residents, industry and transportation.
A: Continued leadership to implement the vision established in our OCP and master plans. Strong, stable governance to build on the foundation that has been established. B: Youth engagement and opportunities for their future. C: Building a complete community where everyone has a voice and a home.
A: low-income housing B: homeless C: city roads
What parks, recreation or cultural amenity should receive more city money? More investment in staffing for general maintenance and upkeep. Cityowned parks, facilities and trails are often dirty, broken, or in disarray. Let’s preserve our investments to ensure their lasting use.
Trail development for hiking and mountain biking. It is rapidly growing in popularity (called “the new golf ”), is healthy activity and brings infusion of tourism dollars.
Culture is at the core of a community. Abbotsford’s is a rich and diverse culture, and yet we put very little money towards cultural awareness and preservation.
Our master plans address this. They were unanimously approved by council. Respectful relationships with senior levels of government and the private sector will move projects forward as we grow.
I am not at yet knowledgeable to be capable of a useful answer.
Mill Lake Park
What should the city do to increase the availability of affordable homes with space for families? Improve the housing supply – make developers want to build here. Reduce wait times and barriers, and incentivize or mandate affordable housing allocations.
Incentives, facilitate new housing development as quickly as is responsible, while mindful. We must also provide quality of life and care for natural environment, preserve greenspace.
Allow for two-secondary suites in homes. From multiple generations of family members, to UFV students, etc., where parking would allow for this change.
Continue to work with the in-fill areas. Encourage developers to build for the needs of families (that is, three- and four-bedroom townhouses and condos).
Design the high rises to accommodate, the old, young and less fortunate. regardless of race, religion, gender or creed.
More questions, more answers in our next News edition The questions answered above weren’t the only ones we asked local council candidates. Because of space, we weren’t able to include all responses here. Over the next few days, we’ll be posting answers to more questions online at abbynews.com/municipal-election. We asked what capital project that candidates thought should be prioritized and how they can give a voice to those who feel under-represented. We also asked what the candidates would say if they found themselves in a room alone with Justin Trudeau or John Horgan. One would-be councillor says his words to Trudeau would be “unprintable.” On the next page you’ll find a chart indicating whether candidates agreed or disagreed with 11 statements posed to them by The News. Answers to another 12 will soon be available online. No two candidates agreed on all statements. We have selected for print those statements that touch on key points of governing phi-
losophy, such as whether amendments to the Official Community Plan should be rare or not, as well as those that address issues of significant concern. For print, we’ve also focused on questions in which candidates expressed differing views. Two statements enjoyed almost universal support: no candidate for either mayor or council disagreed with the statement that enforcement should be increased on properties in the Agricultural Land Reserve that are in contravention of the rules. And only council hopeful Aird Flavelle and mayoral candidate Gerda Peachey disagreed that Highway 1 should be widened through Abbotsford. Meanwhile, only Harvey Jongsma and Lawrence Tilley agreed with the statement that Abbotsford was “too noisy and busy.” But there was much more of a split over whether Abbotsford was “too quiet and boring.” Head to abbynews.com/municipal-election to see how each candidate responded.
The suggested widening of Highway 1 was wildly popular among mayoral and council candidates.
Tax rebate to landlords
How to vote The municipal election takes place in Abbotsford on Saturday, Oct. 20 to elect one mayor, eight city councillors and seven school trustees. There is still one more date for advance voting: Saturday, Oct. 13 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Advance polls are located at the Ag-Rec Building, at Exhibition Park. Polls on voting day are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eligible voters must be 18 years old, a Canadian citizen, a resident of B.C. for at least six months (since April 19) and a resident of Abbotsford for at least 30 days (Sept. 19). Voters must produce at least two documents that prove ID and place of residence, and at least one must contain your signature. Voter identification cards sent in the mail indicate your designated voting location, but those who did not receive a card can find their location online at abbotsford.ca/ election, under the “Where do I vote?” section. If you get an error message and are still unsure where your voting place is, head to your nearest polling station. That website also provides more detailed information about election day, including a full list of ID that can be produced in order to vote.
Abbotsford News
www.abbynews.com
E T O
V
Friday, October 12, 2018 B9
MOE FOR
MAYOR • INTEGRITY • EQUALITY FOR ALL • HOPE • APPROACHABLE
It gives me great honour and pleasure to have this opportunity to seek the position of Mayor for this wonderful City of Abbotsford. I care about the community and have a true desire to work for our residents.
I HAVE
22 years experience on city council and on a wide variety of committees.
I AM
committed to moving the city forward in a positive direction.
I WANT TO
actively lead a democratic open and transparent council.
I WILL work to provide a safe community to live, work and play; and strive to provide rich economic growth and development that will benefit all.
ON SATURDAY OCTOBER 20TH VOTE MOE GILL FOR MAYOR! ADVANCE VOTING DATES Wednesday, October 10 Saturday, October 13th
CAMPAIGN OFFICE th
#101 2975 Gladwin Road, Abbotsford Phone: 604.776.3011 Email: info@moeformayor.com Website: moeformayor.com
Authorized by Financial Agent P. Bansal 604.832.2332
B10 Friday, October 12, 2018
Abbotsford News
Say it simply: Make development quicker and cheaper by relaxing rules imposed on developers
Impose more rules to better control what and where developers can build
www.abbynews.com
We asked council candidates whether they agreed or disagreed with statements about the city, local issues and their governing philosophy. Answers to a dozen more questions will be posted soon at abbynews.com/municipal-election
The Official Community Plan should only rarely be amended
Retail marijuana stores should be prohibited
Consider expanding the urban development boundary
The city should draw on its reserves to complete certain capital projects sooner rather than later
The city should require condo builders to include a certain amount of rental and/ or affordable housing in major new developments
Change is happening too slowly
MAYORAL CANDIDATES
Frequent transit Abbotsford is service in dense, too quiet and central areas boring should be the priority over occasional service to outlying neighbourhoods
Braun
AGREE
NEUTRAL
STRONGLY AGREE
NEUTRAL
STRONGLY DISAGREE
AGREE
NEUTRAL
NEUTRAL
AGREE
DISAGREE
Eros
NEUTRAL
NEUTRAL
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
AGREE
AGREE
AGREE
STRONGLY AGREE
DISAGREE
NEUTRAL
Gill
AGREE
NEUTRAL
DISAGREE
NEUTRAL
NEUTRAL
AGREE
NEUTRAL
NEUTRAL
AGREE
DISAGREE
Nyvall
STRONGLY AGREE
NEUTRAL
AGREE
STRONGLY DISAGREE
AGREE
STRONGLY AGREE
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
AGREE
NEUTRAL
Peachey
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
AGREE
DISAGREE
AGREE
AGREE
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
STRONGLY DISAGREE
Snow
NEUTRAL
AGREE
NEUTRAL
DISAGREE
NEUTRAL
AGREE
AGREE
STRONGLY AGREE
DISAGREE
NEUTRAL
COUNCIL CANDIDATES Anand
AGREE
AGREE
NEUTRAL
NEUTRAL
NEUTRAL
NEUTRAL
AGREE
AGREE
DISAGREE
NEUTRAL
Banman
AGREE
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
AGREE
NEUTRAL
NEUTRAL
AGREE
AGREE
Barkman
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
STRONGLY DISAGREE
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
STRONGLY AGREE STRONGLY AGREE
NEUTRAL
AGREE
AGREE
DISAGREE
Blue
AGREE
DISAGREE
STRONGLY AGREE
DISAGREE
STRONGLY DISAGREE
STRONGLY DISAGREE
NEUTRAL
AGREE
STRONGLY AGREE
STRONGLY DISAGREE
Chahal
NEUTRAL*
DISAGREE
AGREE
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
NEUTRAL
DISAGREE
AGREE
DISAGREE
Dimanno
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
AGREE
DISAGREE
NEUTRAL
STRONGLY AGREE
STRONGLY AGREE
STRONGLY DISAGREE
AGREE
AGREE
Falk
NEUTRAL*
DISAGREE
AGREE
NEUTRAL
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
NEUTRAL
NEUTRAL
AGREE
DISAGREE
Flavelle
STRONGLY DISAGREE
AGREE
STRONGLY AGREE
STRONGLY DISAGREE
STRONGLY DISAGREE
DISAGREE
STRONGLY AGREE
STRONGLY AGREE
STRONGLY AGREE
STRONGLY AGREE
Jongsma
AGREE
NEUTRAL
NEUTRAL
NEUTRAL
NEUTRAL
AGREE
NEUTRAL
AGREE
DISAGREE
AGREE
Loewen
NO RESPONSE
NO RESPONSE
NO RESPONSE
NEUTRAL
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
AGREE
DISAGREE
Manocha
NEUTRAL
AGREE
DISAGREE
NEUTRAL
AGREE
AGREE
STRONGLY AGREE
AGREE
NEUTRAL
AGREE
Redekopp
STRONGLY AGREE
STRONGLY DISAGREE
DISAGREE
NEUTRAL
AGREE
AGREE
STRONGLY AGREE
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
Reynolds
STRONGLY AGREE
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
AGREE
STRONGLY AGREE
AGREE
AGREE
AGREE
Ross
DISAGREE
AGREE
AGREE
NEUTRAL
DISAGREE
AGREE
AGREE
NEUTRAL
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
Sidhu
AGREE
NEUTRAL
STRONGLY AGREE
DISAGREE
DISAGREE
NEUTRAL
NEUTRAL
AGREE
DISAGREE
AGREE
Siemens
AGREE
DISAGREE
STRONGLY AGREE
DISAGREE
STRONGLY DISAGREE
DISAGREE
AGREE
DISAGREE
STRONGLY AGREE
DISAGREE
Tilley
NEUTRAL
AGREE
NEUTRAL
AGREE
AGREE
NEUTRAL
STRONGLY AGREE
NEUTRAL
AGREE
NEUTRAL
Tran
AGREE
AGREE
NO RESPONSE
AGREE
AGREE
AGREE
AGREE
NEUTRAL
AGREE
DISAGREE
Neutral* is used when a candidate did not give a clear answer in the format.
Abbotsford News
www.abbynews.com
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Friday, October 12, 2018 B11
B12 Friday, October 12, 2018
Abbotsford News
www.abbynews.com
Get to know your school trustee candidates Morinee
obnynlews.com
ab
Find more information online, including two more short-answer questions and candidates’ priorities
Jared White Parents First Abbotsford Education: Northwest Theological Seminary M.Div., Theology & religious vocations Past politics? None. Employment: Charity/Non-profit Advokate Life & Education Services Executive director Past/present/approaching school-age children? Present Q: Top three issues and why? (150 words) A: Everyone who is running is doing so for the sake of our students. We all want what is best for our children. But then the question becomes: Who gets to decide what is best for our children?
I firmly believe that, 99 per cent of the time, it is the parents/guardians, who know and love their children the most, who are the only ones properly positioned to decide. For me, the most important and fundamental issue is that parents be respected and acknowledged as the first and primary educators of their children. The second issue is about transparency: We need a much more transparent process of governance at the school board level. The third issue for me is about student safety: We need to stop giving lip service to combating bullying and actually start innovating solutions so that all our students can learn in a safe, inclusive environment. Q: Biggest success applicable to school board? (50) A: I have multiplied the reach and effectiveness of the charity I manage tenfold in the short years I have been there, mostly through innovation and the willingness to take risks. I will bring that creative and innovative
expertise with me to the school board. enough teachers to ensure that all of the district’s 19,242 students get the quality of education they deserve as the current school year started without sufficient teachers to meet every student’s needs as well as appropriate classroom space. Second, encouraging greater participation by parents in their child(ren)’s education to ensure that the curriculum in all subject areas meets the needs of young people as determined by their Graham Evan MacDonell parents in conjunction with their teachEducation: Western Washington ers and the Ministry of Education. Third, to become more aware of the University B.A., Journalism and broadcasting role of class size and composition Past Politics? Former Surrey school on their child(ren)’s education as the trustee, B.C. Liberal campaign staffer current collective agreement with the Employment: Genealogy, communi- B.C. Teachers’ Federation expires by cations the end of the current school year and Scottish Canadian Genealogical Re- an agreement has to be negotiated to prevent another strike by the BCTF/ search Services Owner teachers that could severely impact Past/present/approaching school-age on students’ education as well as an children? Grandchildren agreement with Teamsters Union - - Q: Top three issues and why? (150 (went over word count) words) Q: Biggest success applicable to A: First, and foremost, is hiring school board? (50)
ELECT Dr
Bruce Banman
onl
ws.com abbyne
A: My greatest accomplishment as a former school trustee is the skills that I acquired in teacher and support staff salary bargaining, teacher and support staff grievance resolution.
Heidi Smit-Vinois Education: University of the Fraser Valley B.A., Developmental and child psychology Past Politics? None Employment: Non-profit BCEdAccess Administrator Continued on B13
On October 20th, VOTE:
AIRD
FLAVELLE Abbotsford City Council
• Abundant Housing • Useful Transit • Parks and Green Spaces • New High-Tech Economy
Councillor An Independent Voice
www.AirdFlavelle.com Authorized by Bruce Banman, Financial Agent. banmanchiro@shaw.ca • 778-536-2770.
Morinee
Authorized by the Financial Agent of Aird Flavelle Contact Aird at aird@flavelle.com
Abbotsford News
www.abbynews.com
Past/present/approaching school-age children? Present Q: Top three issues and why? (150 words) A: Voters need to know that a percentage of students are not successful in our system and not graduating due to lack of support, funds and equitable access. We must fulfill on their human right to an education. Voters need to know that in this divisive climate the greatest asset is a trustee’s ability to work as a team in the face of differences of opinion to represent all stakeholders. Voters need to know that the position of trustee is about being of service to the greater good: How do we ensure that the measure of our community is seen in how we turn out our children? The rest is superfluous. Q: Biggest success applicable to school board? (50) A: My greatest is in the non-profit sector: the growth of DPAC over six years to include all stakeholders as a vital part of the conversation of how best to support public education and our students.
Kuldeep Singh Education: UBC Sauder School of Business Past Politics? Former vice-president of finance, Assiniboine Community College Students’ Association Employment: Financial Dominion Lending Centres Mortgage consultant Past/present/approaching schoolage children? Yes Q: Top three issues and why? (150 words) A: Students first – my guiding principle will always be to put students first. I believe that education is a key
for our children’s success. Positive Change – There’s room to improve at existing school board. I hope to make positive differences in the Abbotsford school district in order to ensure that children have access to innovate, and enriched learning opportunities. Commitment – I am a parent with real-world experience in education and business. I will work hard to ensure that schools are seen as family-friendly community resources that strengthen neighbourhoods in our community. I will be attending community meetings as a representative of the school board. Q: Biggest success applicable to school board? (50) A: While working at different financial institutions, I have gained extensive knowledge and insights into providing outstanding customer and community services. I also bring a wealth of knowledge through my various volunteer positions. I am an effective communicator, and will be successfully establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with a variety of - - - (went over word count)
Korky Neufeld Education: Briercrest College & Seminary Bachelors, Religious education, theology Past Politics? Three-term trustee, twoterm director BCSTA, Conservative Party riding nominee Employment: Construction Service Master Restore Construction manager Past/present/approaching school-age children? Past Q: Top three issues and why? (150 words) A: The rights of parents with regard to curriculum choices for their child’s
education. Research has proven when parents are directly involved in their child’s education, they do better. The School Act also affirms the rights of parents and I believe parents are the child’s first and most important lifelong educator. Enrolment concerns throughout our district. The ongoing vacant enrolment in our west side family of schools and the over enrolment in our east side family of schools. A stronger working relationship with the city regarding future development would assist our district with long-range planning. Adding new innovative programs to schools to draw enrollment. Trades and technology opportunities for all students. Approximately 20 per cent of our graduates go on to post-secondary education. Abbotsford needs to expand the trades and technology training in order to better prepare the 80 per cent of graduates for the workforce that our economy so desperately lacks. Q: Biggest success applicable to school board? (50) A: I am energized by setting longrange goals and plans. I value team and everyone using their strengths to bring a vision to implementation. Finding creative and innovative solutions to challenging issues that will arise. Always having the student’s success as the focus.
SOGI 123 initiative concerns candidates This election, a number of Abbotsford school board candidates have mentioned concerns regarding the SOGI 123 initiative. It must be noted that SOGI 123 does not expose children in grades K-7 to sexual content, but deals largely with topics like family diversity (single-parent, samesex, adoptive), LGBTQ+ rights, gender labels and gender norms or stereotypes.
children? Yes Q: Top three issues and why? (150 words) A: Funding needs to increase for curriculum and capital infrastructure projects. The Abbotsford area has a large increase in student enrollment, families are moving out to the Fraser Valley due to cost. However, our system is not prepared to meet the demands. We need to be actively requesting further funding to be prepared and not to be in a reactionary situation where our children’s and students’ education will suffer. Class capacity is not meeting the set-out guidelines that have been requested. Children are the ones that suffer and the parents start pulling them out of the public system into the private sector. We need further funding for curriculum. How do we make our children the most competitive and have them accepted into the best schools around? Transparency and communication – We also need a transparent board that communicates in ample time with the community on the changes being implemented in the - - - (went over word count) Q: Biggest success applicable to school board? (50) A: I’ve been successful working with people from all political alignments and differing points of views to achieve a successful outcome while building bridges. At times when you don’t understand something it’s important to do your research on both sides of an issue to form an educated opinion. I’ve also got - - - (went over word count)
Account manager Past/present/approaching school-age children? Grandchildren Q: Top three issues and why? (150 words) A: a) SOGI and SOGI 123 – parents need to be made aware of the inclusion of the contents of this resource being implemented and taught to their children. We need School District 34 to be transparent regarding the 5 W’s: WHO is this for? WHAT is this teaching? WHEN is it being implemented? WHERE is the material being used? WHY is this being taught? b) Safety first – for all children as well as teachers. No one should ever feel threatened, and action should be taken to ensure all are safe in our schools. Gangs and violence have no place. c) Teacher shortages – need to take steps to decrease classroom sizes to help reduce teacher and support staff workloads, thereby giving everyone a chance to do well. Q: Biggest success applicable to school board? (50) A: a) Personal accomplishments – Strong business networking with MCABC (Mechanical Contractors Association of BC) for 28 years has provided opportunity to give back to charities such as the food bank, supplying wells in Africa. b) Relationship-building between home, school and the school board is a strength I am confident will help - - - (went over word count)
Raj Patara Education: B.C. Institute of Technology Associate degree, Non-profit management and government relations Earl Storey Past Politics? Provincial, federal conEducation: B.C. Institute of TechKathryn Sobko stituency/legislative staff, campaigns nology Employment: Non-profit Education: Diploma, Professional Sales B.C. Cancer Foundation counselling Past Politics? None Past Politics? None Government relations and major gifts Employment: Plumbing/sales advisor B.A. Robinson Past/present/approaching school-age Continued on B14
(Found online at https://bc.sogieducation. org/sogi3.) While SOGI 123 is not mandated by the province, it does not need to be approved locally, either. However, schools must have similar SOGI-inclusive materials of some form in classrooms. Similarly, the school boards do not have the authority to ban these materials.
RE-ELECT
From B12
Friday, October 12, 2018 B13
October 20
Stan
Petersen School Trustee Authorized by Stan Petersen Financial Agent. Stanfortrustee@gmail.com
B14 Friday, October 12, 2018
Employment: Non-profit Abbotsford Bible for Missions Store manager Past/present/approaching school-age children? Past Q: Top three issues and why? (150 words) A: I’m concerned that the removal of test scores from the curriculum removes the ability for parents to know how their child is doing, and on a broader scale, how our educational system is performing in preparing children for life, and removes accountability about how our educational system is performing compared with other nations. I’m concerned that the SOGI curriculum exposes children to sexual content, in every grade starting at the age of five, without parental knowledge or consent. I’m concerned that the classrooms are becoming more difficult for teachers to manage. As integration brings more high-needs children into the class, without sufficient resources to support them, it becomes challenging for teachers to manage and still be able to provide quality education for the rest of the class. Q: Biggest success applicable to school board? (50) A: I have managed two different non-profits, so I’m familiar with budgeting, strategic planning, working with a board, and working in committees for projects such as health and safety, and policy development. As a trained counsellor, I have developed listening and analytical skills that help me understand the intrinsic and extrinsic - - - (went over word count)
RE-ELECT
Michael Battel Education: Online courses Past Politics? None
October 20
Employment: Food service sales Freeman Signature Account manager Past/present/approaching schoolage children? Approaching Q: Top three issues and why? (150 words) A: Communication with parents, what to do with SOGI and how to increase the available dollars for the district. The school board will do a better job of communicating their thoughts and intentions with the public under a new team. SOGI currently, while mandated, is not very well thought out and more work needs to be done to ensure nothing is done in haste. How can the district make and save more money? What is available to us and are we needing to spend all of what we currently do? Q: Biggest success applicable to school board? (50) A: Cost management. Not just in what something may cost, but making sure every dollar that is spent needed to be spent, every single penny could not possibly cost less, or earn us more.
Krista Cardinal Education: Marketing course Past Politics? None Employment: Non-profit, healthcare Fraser Health Authority Worker Past/present/approaching schoolage children? Yes Q: Top three issues and why? (150 words) A: Parents first – we need to give parents and teachers back their voices and we need to listen to what they are saying. Ultimately, they are the decision-makers for their children, but we are ignoring
what they have to say or making decisions without their consent. Back to the basics – our children need to be able to read and write and have life skills when they graduate. Approximately 40 per cent of adults in B.C. do not have the literacy skills or have difficulty to write a resume or read safety information. Anti-bullying curriculum needs to be inclusive to all students. SOGI has not been approved for use in Abbotsford but it is being used. This needs to cease until an informative decision is made whether or not to use this curriculum. Q: Biggest success applicable to school board? (50) A: (No response)
Rhonda Pauls Education: Certification, National level sport leadership Past Politics? Incumbent trustee Employment: Sport leadership development Owner/operator Past/present/approaching school-age children? Past Q: Top three issues and why? (150 words) A: Child and youth mental health – imperative that we continue to focus on the social and emotional needs of our students and facilitating ongoing training for our teachers to be able to deal with these ever-increasing issues. Enrollment management issues in the district – we have lots of challenges with shifting demographics and population density that require very strategic planning and management of policy. Fiscal responsibility – the careful management of our resources and accountability to the district strate-
Preet
Rai
School Trustee
Authorized by Preet Rai, Financial Agent. raiaji@telus.net
www.abbynews.com
gic plan is imperative to ensure our money is spent in direct relation to measures that are improving student success. Q: Biggest success on school board? (50) A: Secondary Apprenticeships and dual credit programs-Graduation rates are improving as we continue to develop more pathways for our secondary students to link their passions Shelley Godwin and aptitudes to their learning. We Education: UBC Sauder School need to ensure students leave grade of Business 12 with confidence and direction. Licensed strata manager Past Politics? None Employment: Accounting/property management StrataForce Management Solutions Strata property agent/CFO Past/present/approaching school-age children? Yes Q: Top three issues and why? (150 words) A: Fiscal responsibility is the key Preet S. Rai Education: Institute of Chartered issue in this election because without properly allocated funding, none of Accountants of India the other issues matter. Diligent lobChartered accountant Past Politics? Incumbent trustee bying of the B.C. government going into contract negotiations with the Employment: Accounting BCTF and the Teamsters is a necessiGovernment of B.C. ty to ensure proper funding for SD34 Professional accountant Past/present/approaching school- to be able to honour those contracts and still have sufficient resources left age children? Yes Short answer: (- - - means response over to allocate to programs and services for students. Once the proper went over word count.) Q: Top three issues and why? (150 funding is in place, SD34 needs to budget efficiently in order to approwords) A: Space: Space has been an issue priate those funds in a manner which at many sites. New schools and ad- will have the most impact on students in terms of academics, athletics and ditions to schools are needed. Safety: Everyone needs to feel safety. Q: Biggest success applicable to safe. There is always room for imschool board? (50) provement. A: I am a very honest and ethical Diversity: Everyone need to feel safe and included in schools and the person, so I think my biggest success at work would be in always community (inclusiveness). Q: Biggest success on school ensuring those characteristics are front and centre, which ensures board? (50) A: Early learning: I feel that early that clients understand that about learning always pays off for a com- me. This has led to improved climunity. The more support we can ent retention and business growth provide at an early stage, the less through referrals. resources will be needed later on. Graduation rates: Graduation rate is around 80 per cent. There Continued on B15 is always room for improvement.
RE-ELECT
From B13
Abbotsford News
October 20
Freddy
Latham School Trustee
Authorized by Freddy Latham, Financial Agent. Freddy.Latham2018@gmail.com
Abbotsford News
www.abbynews.com
From B14
Q: Biggest success on school board? A: 1. New school (50) 2. Increase the graduation rate A: 1) Continue to develop positive re3. Prepare all students to be successlationships with colleagues and staff ful in whatever field they choose. to support the work and value they do. 2) Foster more open and transparent discussion at board meetings, regarding issues and processes for decision making.
Freddy Latham Education: University of B.C. B.Ed, English, theatre Past Politics? Former Surrey school trustee, incumbent trustee Employment: Retired/former educator Abbotsford Children’s Theatre Teacher/artistic director Past/present/approaching school-age children? Yes Q: Top three issues and why? (150 words) A: Building new schools and increasing capacity of existing schools to keep up with enrollment pressures. Maintaining current policies for inclusive and safe environments for all staff and students. To continue to advance the work currently being done in the Early Learning and Grade 3 Reading Imperative. We know that student success is based on good literacy practice in early years.
Phil Anderson Education: Abbotsford Restorative Justice Unspecified course Past Politics? Incumbent trustee, former trustee in Lloydminster Employment: Retired/former auto repair shop owner Past/present/approaching school-age children? Past Q: Top three issues and why? (150 words) A: 1. More French teachers 2. More classrooms 3. New schools Q: Biggest success on school board? (50)
Stan Petersen Education: University of the Fraser Valley Ph.D, Education leadership Past Politics? Incumbent trustee/ board vice-chair Employment: Retired/former educator Abbotsford School District Principal Past/present school-age children? Yes Q: Top three issues and why? (150 words) A: We need to continue to recruit qualified teachers and TTOCs [teachers on call] to the school district to address the shortages that we are currently experiencing. We need to continue to press the government, as we have in our longterm capital plan, to build new schools in Abbotsford to address the capacity
ABBOTSFORD SCHOOL TRUSTEE ABBO
Friday, October 12, 2018 B15
issues that we have. We must continue to improve success rates for our Indigenous students, our special needs students, and students in government care. Q: Biggest success on school board? (50) A: The school board has a Strategic Plan that focuses resources and efforts toward ‘Student Success.” I am proud to have been a part of the creation of this plan and will make it a priority to work with my colleagues to reach the goals embedded in the plan.
Shirley Wilson Education: University of the Fraser Valley Bachelors, Sociology, adult education Past Politics? Incumbent trustee/ board chair, B.C. School Trustees Association, B.C. School Employers Association Employment: Non-profit SurreyCares Community Foundation Project manager Past/present/approaching school-age
children? Yes Q: Top three issues and why? (150 words) A: Capital funding is a priority. The provincial government is demanding operating funds be used toward new school construction prior to provincial capital funds being contributed. Our schools are overflowing capacity on the east side. A new funding model will be implemented by the government. The model does not increase funding, but may restrict our ability to put dollars where we need it most. Bargaining for local and provincial collective agreements. Teachers will bargain from the 2002 contract language. Support staff bargaining starts very soon. It is important for the employer (the board) to be fully versed in the implications and planning for bargaining. While many might argue that SOGI is the biggest issue, I believe we put the family first, ensure transparency in the classroom, and have to provide more resources for teachers to use. Q: Biggest success on school board? (50) A: As an incumbent, one accomplishment for me will be the opening of a new elementary school, plus finalizing the plan for our long-term facility use. Completing the capital planning for our community as we continue to grow and enrolment increases is necessary.
I believe that parents remain the strongest influence as primary educators and advocates for their children. Passionate about establishing strong, confident bonds of communication between schools and parents, I am a strong supporter of parental participation in every level of education. I’ve been married to my wife for 38 years, and in that time we’ve raised 8 beautiful children and 12 grand children, with 7 of them currently attending Abbotsford schools. Beyond the home, I have 35 years of business experience and am currently an account manager for a major plumbing & heating company. I’ve served on the Board of Directors for the Fraser Valley Chapter of the Mechanical Contractors Association, and am currently an Associate Member.
VOTE FOR
GODWIN, Shelley Fiscal Responsibility
I’m passionate about quality education for all families and their children. I’ve advocated for further growth and development of Trades and Apprenticeship programs at the high school level. My vision is to see more options available to our teenagers as they navigate through the education system and into the working world. I’ve used my influence in the local business and trades professions to support that vision. Ever since I became a father, I’ve been involved with home, private, and public school with my own children and am now ready to serve this community as a school trustee.
Academic & Athletic Excellence
Shelley Godwin for School Trustee
School Safety
ShelleyGodwin2018@gmail.com
Cindy Schafer, a currently serving School Trustee, has been gracious enough to endorse me for this role. Along with Cindy, Peter Warkentin co-owner and CEO of Quadra Homes, a major real estate developer in Abbotsford, has endorsed me for the position of Trustee. I always say “If you want to get something done, ask a busy person.” I will bring a fresh perspective and enthusiastic support to the work of the Abbotsford Board of Education.
Children are our future leaders! VOTE FOR EARL STOREY FOR SCHOOL TRUSTEE
B16 Friday, October 12, 2018
Abbotsford News
www.abbynews.com
Together we can tackle the important issues in our city! As your new Mayor I pledge myself to tackle these important issues...
Eric is a life-long Abbotsford resident, business owner and Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA)
Eric@EricNyvall.com Call Me! 604.756.0249 /NyvallForMayor @ericnyvall Authorized by Financial Agent eric@ericnyvall.com
FIGHT CRIME
I want to increase the APD gang taskforce. Let’s take back our streets!
PROTECT AT RISK YOUNG MEN
I want to fund after school activities and mentorship so our young men don’t join gangs.
CLEAN UP PARKS
Clean up parks - no more homeless camping.
PROTECT THE HOMELESS
Provide the Land and resources necessary to help them be a productive part of our community.
PROTECT OUR ENVIRONMENT
Protect environment- Save $1M a year by using LED street Lights and natural gas buses
RECYCLING
Bring back glass recycling
RAIL TO SURREY
Advocate for the Province to use the existing rail Line to Link Chilliwack, Abbotsford and Langley to the Surrey Skytrain station.
TOTAL PERSONAL TRANSPARENCY
I have declared all Abbotsford Land owned by myself and my family members
OVER 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
Over 20 years of political volunteer experience and Leadership. Ready to move Abbotsford forward.
FISCALLY CONSERVATIVE
I will be fiscally responsible and advocate for no tax increases beyond inflation!
COMMUNITY ENGAGED
I have personally knocked on over 9,000 doors this campaign. I want to engage with and Listen to you!
SUPPORT OUR COMMUNITY
Supports our community organizations and willing to build the infrastructure.
MENTAL HEALTH INITIATIVES
I want to fund a new mental health resource to better help our Abbotsford Police Department.
HELP BUSINESSES
Eliminate the annual business License fee
EFFICIENCY
Eliminate unnecessary and redundant red tape
MARKET ABBOTSFORD
Market Abbotsford’s infrastructure for companies in Aerospace, Farming and Manufacturing
Join my family for a BBQ at Mill Lake, Oct 13, 2pm.