CANDIDATE PROFILE: Dieter Dudy

I believe, more than anything, it is my measured and thoughtful approach to the issues presented to us at council. I will always listen first, deliberate second, and then will make a decision. I have been described as a voice of reason and also have a natural ability to lead effectively and bring about calm. I am not a wordy person and so when I speak, people listen.

What do you think is the best way to resolve disagreements or conflicts with your peers, those in a different department or those in a different jurisdiction?

Head on and with respect. Issues become complicated and burdensome only when they have been allowed to fester. When a difficult situation arises, whether a disagreement or conflict, the best and only way to gain resolution is to have honest, respectful, dialogue. Above all listen to what is being said, not who is saying it, try to understand the intent. Be patient and allow emotion to subside before seeking meaningful resolution. Should that fail, arrange to have a mediator that can help to facilitate a reasoned outcome.

What do you think is the biggest issue facing the City of Kamloops and how would use your elected position to address it?

Without question our social issues are at the forefront, and while it falls upon the provincial government to address and provide solutions, our council is looked upon daily to provide meaningful and effective approaches. As mayor, I would gain access to the provincial government ministries, and I would be relentless daily in reminding them of the dire situation in our community. I would convey to them the anger and frustration felt by our community and how that is shared with me and our council. We do not have the luxury of sitting by and waiting for the slow wheels of government to address this issue; we need to demand a sound and reasoned approach that will result in effective solutions. I would bring key community builders to a table, and we would establish a Made in Kamloops approach that we would aggressively lobby both the provincial and federal governments with.

How do you plan to involve Kamloops residents in your decision-making?

Frankly, Kamloops residents are given every opportunity to engage on almost every issue facing them save in-camera sessions. Whether online, by mail, or in person, nothing would change and where possible I would make every effort to ensure the citizens of Kamloops have an opportunity to voice their opinion. That said, people elect us for a reason. They elect us to make decisions on their behalf and sometimes those decisions may be counter to how they may have voted. So while collectively they might sway my position on an issue if it is seen as the best approach for the community, individually may or may not work that way.

What does a sustainable future for Kamloops and area look like to you and what does it need from mayor and council?

In my estimation, a sustainable future comes from being open for business. We need to be seen as a city that is not just interested in business retention but is ready to welcome the world and its opportunities to our city. We need to impress upon Venture Kamloops that we will do all we can to make Kamloops a desirable place to live in and do business in. We need to continue to support and work alongside Tourism Kamloops by making Kamloops a great place to visit. Current visitors are potential residents. I see nothing but opportunity ahead for Kamloops and that in my mind is the greatest way to ensure sustainability. What it needs from mayor and council is vision and that vision would be embedded in their strategic plan.

by CFJC Today

CANDIDATE PROFILE: Dieter Dudy

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