Ahead of the Oct. 15 municipal election, CFJC Today asked candidates for Kamloops City Council to complete a questionnaire, offering voters the chance to evaluate their candidacies.
QUESTIONNAIRE:
Describe yourself, your occupation and your historical connection to the Kamloops area.
I am a successful businessperson. As owner of CareerFirsts with clients across Canada and the U.S., I am a finalist for the Kamloops and District Chamber of Commerce 2022 Emerging Business of the Year.
I was a Co-op Coordinator at Thompson Rivers University (2001 to 2021), during which time I helped thousands of young people connect with computing science, engineering, and technology jobs in Kamloops and across B.C. I am a proven strong advocate.
I grew up in Kamloops before leaving for school, returning in 2001 to work at TRU. My family has been in Kamloops since 1934, when they were farmers in Brocklehurst.
What differentiates you from the other candidates?
I have the skills and experience to be a strong advocate for citizens of Kamloops.
First, I have the experience. I was a councillor for two terms from 2008 to 2014 during which time I was a strong advocate, especially for seniors and people with disabilities.
Second, I am strongly connected to the Kamloops community through my work with RAFT (Refugees & Friends Together); TRIPS Canoe Club; Kamloops Outdoor Skating Association; Advocates for Kamloops Extended Care; Emergency Social Services (ESS), PIT Stop, and Changing the Face of Poverty, and CMHA Ride Don’t Hide.
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?
As a member of council, I will be making hundreds of decisions on an ongoing basis. One thing that is important is to remember that once a decision is made, whether I supported it or not, it is the decision of council and needs my support. Second, there are always many opportunities along the way to discuss issues. For example, if an official community plan is being revised, it will come to council multiple times. Ongoing dialogue allows ideas to be received by others and may change the direction of policy. Finally, there are often disagreements between staff recommendations and council decisions. Staff make technical recommendations, but the role of council is to ensure the goals of community are met. It is my role as councillor to weigh staff recommendations against community goals.
What do you think is the biggest issue facing the City of Kamloops and how would use your elected position to address it?
The number one issue of concern for people I talk to is the social disorder on our streets. Some is caused by addictions. Some is caused by homelessness. Some by mental illness. Some by prolific offenders. There is not one cause to the disorder, but as a community, finding solutions needs to be a priority. Housing and healthcare options need to be provided. Changes in policing for prolific offenders is also required.
Second, climate resilience. Our community needs to work to lessen greenhouse gas emissions to reduce climate change. As well, we need strong climate mitigation strategies to ensure fire, flood, and other effects of climate change impact Kamloops as little as possible.
Third, livability. As our city grows, amenities such as a performing arts centre, more ice surfaces, and an additional indoor pool will make Kamloops a better place for children, youths, families, and seniors. Finding ways to build them affordably should be a goal of council.
Fourth, housing options for all types of people. In the past, single family residential was the dominant land use in Kamloops. With thousands of students, growing numbers of seniors, and shrinking family sizes in Kamloops, more options are required to make sure everyone has housing that works for their needs.
How do you plan to involve Kamloops residents in your decision-making?
There are many ways I will involve residents and businesses in decision-making. First through City meetings such as public hearings and consultations. As in the past, when I was on council, attending community events and organizations’ meetings is equally important to ensure a wide range of ideas.
What does a sustainable future for Kamloops and area look like to you and what does it need from mayor and council?
There are two parts to sustainability. First is supporting and improving on the Climate Action Plan. This plan outlines how the City can lessen greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate against the risk of climate change. I will support budgeting to ensure the goals of the plan are achieved. Along with supporting e-vehicles, other forms of transportation need to be expanded in Kamloops such as cycling and pedestrian infrastructure and expanded transit. As well, housing is a key part, including zero-carbon housing and reducing urban sprawl. Mitigating against the risks of climate change such as fires, floods and heat domes will keep citizens safe and ensure valuable infrastructure is protected.
Second, sustainability will have the benefit of making Kamloops a more livable place, that is walk-able and easier to get around for everyone. Community centres with shopping, and less urban sprawl makes for a more livable city.
