Michael Kaile
Running for: Councillor, Islands Trust Trustee
Age: 70
Occupation: Councillor / hotel consultant
How long have you lived on Bowen?: 12 years
Please list any current and past committees you've been a part of and how long you served on each (in list form).: Housing Advisory Committee ( just formed) Economic Development - joined in 2012 (then the Economic Advisory Committee), Snug Cove Working Group Internet Connectivity Wok Force (since 2014), Human Recourses Committee (since 2014), Finance Committee (since 2014)
What are your priorities if elected (beyond housing or transportation.): No logging, medical centre, Bowen community centre, high speed Internet, island-wide connectivity, expand re-cycling, including on island composting
Housing is emerging as one of the top issues of this election - what would you specifically do to address the lack of affordable and/or rental housing?: As a member of the Housing Advisory Committee focus on: Pursuing all available grant options. Supporting the work being done by BIRCH (Bowen Island Resilient Community Housing) and working with private interests. Municipality providing early input on proposed projects resulting in greater certainty as well as an open, straightforward process.
How would you address the animal control issues of deer and skunks on-island?: Firstly, impose truly heavy fines on "skunk-dumpers." Secondly, research organisations who have humanely tackled animal control issues to assess the range of alternatives.
What ideas do you have for managing Bowen's tourism tensions?: Our future approach needs to be 100 per cent strategic, focusing on promoting the "shoulder seasons" and spreading the wealth throughout the year. We need to be proactive in countering peak-season problems including managing summer ferry line-ups which so inconvenience Bowen residents.
Air BnB - yes or no? Why?: Air BnB should never take from desperately needed long-term rental housing. However, if it provides income for those away for a short period of time and fulfils requirements such as neighbour approval, parking, septic etc. it would be one activity making a good case for a business licence.
In a campaign (so far) characterized by candidates agreeing with one another-what do you feel is at stake in this election?: The right to live and work on the Bowen if you so choose. The need to continue respectful and listening dialogue within council.
(If running for Islands Trust) Why are you running for Islands Trust trustee?: I support and respect the Islands Trust role, however I wish to see the partnership evolve, recognising we are the only municipality in the Islands Trust. I believe a developing relationship is needed given the considerable support provided by Bowen's tax payers.
Facebook page: fb.me/michaelkaileforcouncil
Website address: kaileforcouncil
