1. What triggered you to make this step and run for municipal office?
I became interested in the political process during the 2010 Olympics. These were very successful games, providing many added facilities including an innovative recreational center and a social housing initiative. But, these were costly to taxpayers, jobs were outsourced and available housing became more limited. Almost 3 years ago, I became a full-time, but still commuting, resident here. Council meeting videos provided some insight on how our current council operates, but important issues, like truly accessible housing for families and care for the elderly are still urgently needed.
2. What common ground do you share with other candidates running in this election?
Many of the candidates have concerns about common issues. We are all very lucky to live in such a wonderful place, but we need to develop a mindset that eventually allows us to become more independent as an island community. Development will inevitably occur here, but it must be based on community needs in a fiscally responsible manner. In the short term, we must care better for our islanders now. In the long term, however, Bowen needs an independent means to employ more people with a small footprint. Ideas include a privately-funded marine research institute right here on Bowen and expanded ecotourism opportunities. This would bring more young families here, add employment, lead inevitably to new facilities, like arts and recreational facilities, and reduce dependence on the ferries. By exploring the seas around us and its depths, we truly have a unique resource as a community to contribute to the greater good now.
3. What are your top three priorities for Bowen?
Island independence, caring for our community members, particularly our youth, less advantaged and the elderly, and accountability for decisions that impact our economy and its development. We need to be fiscally responsible. I reviewed the financial statements with Kristen Watson from the municipality. Her estimated projections suggest ongoing deficits, still not addressed, and this will plague us in the future. We should fully examine where we, as a community, spend our money right now. For example, could our island run a service, now outsourced to Translink, in a more economical fashion? Dollars saved could be spent here on the island without increasing taxes.
4. Tell me about the community work you have done that you are most proud of?
I have only had a limited opportunity to work on Bowen as a volunteer. Almost 3 decades ago, I set up the beginnings of the first catalogue database for Lois Myers-Carter at the Bowen Library. Since then, most of my volunteer time has been focused elsewhere where I served as a ski racing coach at Cypress and Whistler, YWCA job counselling program, teaching computer skills to the elderly at home and institutions, and organizing the Riley Park Master’s swimming program. A very key element to living here are contributions made by volunteers and these volunteers need to be better supported and appreciated.
5. How will you work to make council open to the concerns and ideas of all Bowen Islanders?
All meetings should be transparent, open and held at times that are accessible to the public. Most important though, council members need to actively listen and discuss issues with each other so that agreement is reached or disagreement understood. Realistically, the actual work of being a council member on this island will be huge, at least, in terms of the time commitment needed to address the multitude of issues important to islanders.
6. What do you love most about living on Bowen Island?
I love the serenity and tranquility of our island, the misty mornings and the bright ones too. But, most of all, I love the island as my home. We must address short term initiatives now and keep future long term goals as an independent, caring and accountable community.
