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B.C. ELECTIONS Fall 2011 Published November 15, 2011
www.pqbnews.com Election night coverage
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Nov . 19 201 1
On November 19, it’s up to us
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here’s a responsibility electors must embrace before entering that polling place and entering a ballot during an election — and that is to be informed. To know who and what you are voting for — for those decisions you make when marking your ballot, help set the stage for the next three years (and perhaps beyond) in local, municipal government. Today, the PARKSVILLE QUALICUM BEACH NEWS continues to bring to you the information you need to make an informed decision on election day — Saturday, November 19, 2011. In this special section, the candidates in the City of Parksville, Town of Qualicum Beach, School District 69 (Qualicum) and the local areas of the Regional District of Nanaimo provide answers to specific questions posed by THE NEWS. The questions are tailored to each electoral area — and further to each of the mayoral candidate groups in Parksville and Qualicum Beach. The questions were sent out to the candidates shortly after the closing of the nomination period in October, so each person has had time to prepare carefully their answers. Throughout the run-up to the 2011 municipal election, THE NEWS has worked hard to bring you information about each candidate — in profiles, interviews and in coverage of various local forums. This special section continues that effort, with the hope that it might spark spirited voting on November 19.
DON’T FORGET TO VOTE
Your vote does make a difference. In 2008, fewer than 600 votes separated the winning mayoral candidate from his nearest competitor in the City of Parksville. In Qualicum Beach, 98 votes more would have given one candidate the final seat on council. Thirty-seven more votes in Parksville could have done the same thing for one candidate there. Imagine if 37 people in Parksville had decide to vote, instead of thinking “My vote doesn’t count.” The last three years could have been markedly different. Numbers aside, we know that some people feel they haven’t been represented, and therefore don’t vote. THE NEWS challenges that, however, and encourages as many people as possible to seek out those candidates who represent their interests in our communities. Read through the following answers and find which candidates most closely reflect your values. It is, after all, our community to share and to ensure thrives into the future. This starts with our community leaders and the policies they enact to reach that future. We have the ability to select those leaders. On November 19, it’s up to us. Thank you for participating in the election process. — by Steven Heywood, editor
B2 • THE NEWS, Tuesday, November 15, 2011
www.pqbnews.com
Civic Elections Nov. 19
MAYORAL CANDIDATES: CITY
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Chris Burger Q: What do you think of Parksville’s current goal of increasing business and residential density? A: Revitalization of downtown Parksville is an important component of our long-term planning strategy. In our 2010 citizen survey, residents expressed strong support for beautification efforts and further improvements to sidewalks, streets and storefronts in our city centre. Increasing business and residential density in our downtown will advance these ongoing revitalization efforts. By following smart growth principles, we also ensure an efficient use of infrastructure
resent a complete solution for our community’s health care needs. and an urban core As a city, we must that is vibrant, continue to assert economically viable pressure to achieve and inviting to both improved medical residents and visicare right here at tors. home. We should Q: Should an continue our work CHRIS BURGER urgent health care with the Federacentre be a priority tion of Oceanside for Parksville city council? Resident Associations and local government partners in ongoing A: About 8,000 Oceanside engagement with the provincial residents are currently forced government on health care matto leave the area each year for ters that are a priority for our unscheduled visits to regional local residents. hospitals, just to access basic medical services — a completely Q: Is a city’s OCP (official unacceptable situation. community plan) an important The proposed urgent health document for a municipal councare centre is an important step cil? Why, why not? forward however, it does not rep-
Missing candidates in this edition • Rick Honaizer and Antonio Farhina. — Parksville mayoral candidates. The pair did not re-
spond to two separate email messages asking for their participation in the Q&A session.
FISCAL RESTRAINT
I have canvassed thousands of doors over the last many weeks. The number ONE ISSUE is
FISCAL RESTRAINT Parksville taxpayers are not only FED UP with the waste of taxpayer’s monies, tax increases, water rate increases, but also UNSURE what their future elected officials stand for and propose. NO MORE: $1,000,000 spending on consultants reports and wasteful, unfinished studies. NO MORE: Hiring of new staff (11 last year) NO MORE: Pushing through large projects without taxpayers consent. NO MORE: 23% wage increase Council gave themselves. No one else enjoys a 23% increase. NO MORE: Constipated attitude towards business development. Small business are the engine of new jobs and taxes. NO MORE: HIGH RISE WATERFRONT DEVELOPMENT. The existing development is there. it can not be wished away, erased. They provide a good tax base, employ up to 100 people, have received environmental awards and, like every other business, try to be good corporate citizens by being involved in their community. PAUL REITSMA has a CLEAR and CONCISE platform (see his election brochure for all details. It includes: • Freeze on new studies and hiring consultants • Freeze on hiring new staff • Limit any tax increases to 0-2% • Re-consideration of the 23% council wage increase • Business friendly attitude. Eliminate unnecessary and constricting delays and “red tape” • Vigorously encourage business opportunities such as high tech, light industrial/manufacturing, hospitality industry (conventions, conferences, sports events, Canucks training camp - they came in 1988 and 1989). • Acute 24/7 care facility where residents in stress can check in and, if required, stay overnight - where pre/post op care can be given, providing palliative care and urgent but low-trauma care. We do NOT need another day clinic!!! ABOVE ALL, FISCAL RESTRAINT
REITSMA, Paul
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• Leadership • Experience • Decisiveness • Transparency
PARKSVILLE
A: I often refer to our Official Community Plan as our single most important bylaw. An OCP expresses the long-term vision and goals of our residents and provides important direction to mayor and council. For an OCP to be effective, it must be up to date and representative of our community’s views. I pressed very hard to see our current OCP reviewed, as it is clearly evident that our plan is no longer an accurate reflection of our citizen’s wishes with regard to the future of our city. Q: Can city hall be more accountable to the electorate? How? A: I believe we are very accountable to the electorate. However, we must always strive to remain an open and transparent level of government. Elected
representatives should be readily accessible to residents and we must embrace every opportunity to engage with our community. As leaders, we need to understand that we set the example by our actions, not our words. Q: What leadership traits do you feel you could bring to city hall? A: I’m an open and honest person with a genuine desire to serve. I listen carefully and I always maintain an open mind. As your acting mayor, I have always taken a collaborative approach in working with council and I encourage debate as it is essential in making good decisions. I am a hard worker and I embrace my role as a public servant.
Paul Reitsma Q: What do you think of Parksville’s current goal of increasing business and residential density? A: Under the OCP certain goals and objectives have been adopted. In general I concur providing the applicant has the option to designate the ground floor as commercial depending on short and long term economic conditions, such as the need and availability of commercial space, whether strata or rental. Timely processing of applications are crucial rather than being bogged down/held up due to too much costly red tape, which is happening now all too often. Q: Should an urgent health care centre be a priority for Parksville city council? A: When you settle for less you will simply get less. We need an urgent care 24/7 facility where residents in stress can check in and be held overnight. Where pre/post op care can be given, providing palliative care and urgent but low-trauma care. We do not need another day clinic. Parksville council simply buckled under VIHA’s expensive, non-tendered facility.
costly indecision which is covered up by endless unnecessary reports/studQ: Is a city’s ies/consultants. OCP (official comWhen I was mayor munity plan) an (1987-1996) I estabimportant doculished an “open ment for a municidoor” policy pal council? Why, every Monday why not? afternoon: anyone PAUL REITSMA could come in, A: An OCP is staff were “on a vision of the call” to assist. future, how the community To better understand a sees itself and a statement of objectives/policies to guide de- concern, I sometimes switched seats with the citizen/taxpayer cisions on planning and land ... an enlightening experience use management. An OCP is for both. only as good as implemented by the council of the day. Q: What leadership traits Previous councils simply igdo you feel you could bring to nored those fundamentals and city hall? foreve changed the character and identity of Parksville by A: I am a manager who sets selectively re-zoning part of goals/objectives, has clear vithe waterfront to accommodate a waterfront development, sion and expects results from both myself and the rest of the totally ignoring the wishes of team. the citizens and community. I I have never objected to rehave always strictly followed ceive suggestions/instructions the fundamental principles of from anyone as we all work the OCP. together towards the same goals and results. Q: Can city hall be more I am used to working hard, accountable to the electorate? am relentless when pursuing a How? goal, don’t really care who gets the credit as long as things get A: By simply listening done. I offer strong leadership instead of displaying the “I by standing tall, have extenknow best” attitude. sive experience. There is a lack of transparMy aim is “ how may we, as ency and dis-connect with council, be of help to you.” staff resulting in above all
pqbnews.com ELECTION NIGHT COVERAGE ONLINE
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THE NEWS, Tuesday, November 15, 2011 •
B3
Civic Elections Nov. 19
COUNCIL CANDIDATES: CITY
Al Greir Q: What do you think of Parksville’s current goal of increasing business and residential density in the downtown core? A: I believe this is truly out of necessity. Higher density in the down town core is needed with more business and added commercial taxation. Q: Do you think the one to three per cent municipal tax increases of recent years are worth the services you would like to see the city provide? A: We are in very changing times. It is very important to watch our spending. We are headed unfortunately too much higher taxes in the near future.
AL GREIR
Q: Do you believe the planned Arrowsmith Water Service new river intake and treatment facility are important? A: I think very important – how we pay for it is another question. I would like to see us take our time on this project. I would hope the Feds and province would step to the plate with the majority of the costs — or we might have to find alternatives. Q: Should an urgent health care centre be a priority for Parksville city council? A: Yes — it has taken 25 years to get this far, so it is a good start. Q: Is a city’s OCP an important document for a municipal council? Why, why not? A: Yes it is — however as everyone knows councils in the past have amended it, changed it, ignored it — it is not cast in stone. I have followed councils for years and it has happened over and over again. Q: Is council accountable to the residents? How would you like to see its accountability change? A: That is an absolute — I think in the past three years we have been more accountable than some previous councils. Q: What are the three biggest and most urgent issues facing the City of Parksville? A: Water, infrastructure, additional (new business) commercial taxation — beachfront.
Marc Lefebvre Q: What do you think of Parksville’s current goal of increasing business and residential density in the downtown core?
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PARKSVILLE
and inclusive process, the OCP represents the community’s best thinking and agreement on how citizens, businesses and government want their community evolve during the next five to 10 years and beyond. It serves as the master vision on land-use planning and development, outlining what can and cannot occur. It is the foundation for a strong, vibrant and vital community.
A: A vibrant, vital downtown is key to a sustainable community. Increased business and residential density in Parksville’s downtown core brings several benefits, includQ: Is council accountable to the ing: reduced urban sprawl; a walkresidents? How would you like to see able, pedestrian-friendly urban cenits accountability change? tre; more affordable infrastructure (water, sewer, roads and sidewalks). A: Good governance is a working Recent projects like the expanded partnership between citizens, their MARC LEFEBVRE Thrifty’s Centre, the new buildelected representatives and the city’s ing on Weld Street and the Lion’s staff. Strengthening accountability Club’s Hustwick Place were made possible by processes can include: a shared understanding Parksville’s current Official Community Plan of accountability measures and expectations; and zoning. respectful and trusting relationships; proactive dialogues; transparency and openness; and Q: Do you think the one to three per cent a willingness to see what’s right rather than municipal tax increases of recent years are what’s broken. worth the services you would like to see the city provide? Q: What are the three biggest and most urgent issues facing the City of Parksville? A: Parksville citizens demand and expect that their city have infrastructure (water, sewer, A: The three key issues that we must tackle roads) and services (police and fire, parks, and include: investing wisely on infrastructure garbage collection) that work. The city currenewal (in priority order: water, sewer, roads, rently faces an annual $2 million infrastructure parks and police and fire); replacement and renewal deficit. It also faces increasing costs for goods and services. Regular modest tax increases (one to three per cent per year), while challenging, are necessary if the city is to protect its investments and provide residents with the services they need and want.
REGISTER TO VOTE To ensure you are on the local voters’ list, contact your municipal government office directly. Speak with the electoral officer to see if you are on the list. Do it now to avoid delays and inconvenience at the polls. If you are not sure you’re on the list on election day, Nov. 19 — or at the Nov. 16 advance poll —bring ID, a recent bill with your address on it — take action in your own hands to ensure you can help decide the future. —NEWS Staff
RE-ELECT
Q: Do you believe the planned Arrowsmith Water Service new river intake and treatment facility are important? A: Safe, secure potable water is the key to human survival. The proposed new water intake and treatment plant, mandated by the Vancouver Island Health Authority, are part of a long-range, integrated plan to ensure that Parksville residents have continuing access to high-quality water now and in the future. Without these new developments, including a potentially innovative Aquifer Storage and Recovery System (ASR) the City may not have an assured supply source or the desired water quality. Q: Should an urgent health care centre be a priority for Parksville city council? A: The responsibility for providing those services is the mandate of the Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA), not Parksville city council. (The City) can work collaboratively to support and assist VIHA, the health care professionals and the community to have the centre open as soon as possible. Encouraging collaboration and co-operation among the participating agencies and stakeholders and expediting applicable city approvals should be council’s priorities.. Q: Is a city’s OCP an important document for a municipal council? Why, why not? A: An OCP is an important and unifying document for all the community, including city council. Crafted through a collaborative
Sue Powell
Parksville City Council SUE WILL WORK TOWARDS
• Ensuring access to safe, clean drinking water, provided by a public utility. • Truly sustainable growth, acknowledging a duty to give priority to quality of life issues.
VOTE Sue Powell, A Progressive Voice on Council
CONTACT SUE 250-951-1082 • kfsue@shaw.ca
ELECT CHRIS BURGER • Experienced • Honest • Hard Working FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT
burgerforparksville.ca
PARKSVILLE MAYOR
B4 • THE NEWS, Tuesday, November 15, 2011
www.pqbnews.com
Civic Elections Nov. 19
COUNCIL CANDIDATES: CITY LEFEBVRE: Reconciling increasing service expectations from citizens with the City’s ability to pay, given its limited ability to gener-
ate new tax revenues; Approving the new OCP, including the community’s vision and it’s approach to change, growth and development.
Peter Morrison Q: What do you think of Parksville’s current goal of increasing business and residential density in the downtown core?
reason to increase taxes further, if the proper steps are taken to build the local economy and tighten the purse strings on unnecessary spending.
A: I would like to see a Q: Do you downtown believe the core that enplanned Artices people rowsmith Water to stay and Service new explore what river intake and Parksville treatment facilhas to offer. PETER MORRISON ity are imporA cohesive tant? and friendly downtown that beckons A: We have some of visitors, bolsters the local the best water in the economy and sets the world, and ensuring the stage for creating comcontinuation of that petitive wages that will service is paramount. keep our young families If we are to continue to here. I feel the current utilize surface water as a plan for increasing resource, then this facildensity is good, but does ity is going to be necesnot go far enough to cresary, according to VIHA ate a vibrant downtown, regulations. We must also nor offer the incentives keep in mind the growth necessary to entice the in population and be probusinesses we need. active in our planning. Q: Do you think the one to three per cent municipal tax increases of recent years are worth the services you would like to see the city provide? A: We need to offset taxes with a broader tax base, rather than higher individual taxes. I see no
Q: Should an urgent health care centre be a priority for Parksville city council? A: As a Canadian, health care is one of our greatest privileges, and I believe we need to ensure that the citizens of Parksville have direct access to those services.
Devoted to making Parksville a Better Place to Live, Work & Play
SIBLEY, Patricia
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Be counted in on November 19th
VOTE!
Q: Is a city’s OCP (official community plan) an important document for a municipal council? Why, why not? A: The OCP is a vision of the people of Parksville and is a necessary and valuable tool that guides future development within the city boundaries. This process is stalled and we need to find a solution to complete the OCP so council will have a firm grasp on what the citizens of Parksville’s vision is for our community. Q: Is council accountable to the residents? How would you like to see its accountability change? A: I feel that council definitely needs to be accountable to the residents it serves, and anything we can do to improve the communication and accountability to our citizens would be beneficial.
PARKSVILLE
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Q: What are the three biggest and most urgent issues facing the City of Parksville? A: I feel our demographic issues, downtown core and waterfront, as well as the infrastructure should be of primary focus. We must have a vision to the future. Our waterfront is our single greatest asset, and is the right and the privilege of our entire community. It is imperative that we preserve our waterfront for everyone. Promenades, green spaces, viewpoints, and recreation need to be the primary focus. We need to find a balance that supports our wonderful way of life, entice green industry and educate the workforce needed to fill those jobs, a balance that strengthens the local economy without being a detriment to what currently makes Parksville such a great place to live.
Bill Neufeld Q: What do you think of Parksville’s current goal of increasing business and residential density in the downtown core? A: I think that goal is tremendous, as long as the development occurs on the south side of 19A, away from the waterfront/beach. Making the downtown area more inviting with new vibrant shops, restaurants and
BILL NEUFELD retail stores with accommodation above would be great.
Parksville’s Future Begins Today
Marc
Lefebvre Parksville City Council
On November 19th, Re-Elect Marc to Parksville City Council
Many Parksville citizens with whom I have spoken would like to see a more pedestrian-friendly downtown, even suggesting closing Alberni road from 19A to Jensen with parking and access from MacMillan and Craig streets. Q: Do you think the one to three per cent municipal tax increases of recent years are worth the services you would like to see the city provide?
potential upgrades if and when needed? There is an opaqueness to the question, which demonstrates a fuzziness, allowing for a possible lack of accountability on the part of council. Q: Should an urgent health care centre be a priority for Parksville city council?
A: Is the City raising our taxes without any forethought as how those taxes will be spent? I can only hope that this is not the case. There is a disconnect between the taxes in prior years and for that which they were raised, and ‘the services (I) would like to see the city’ provide in the future.
A: As you do not define what you mean by an urgent health care centre, and as the phrase means many different things to different people, plus health is a provincial jurisdiction matter mandated to Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA), Parksville council can only have a ‘moral suasion’ role to play. I believe that Oceanside requires better service from VIHA.
Q: Do you believe the planned Arrowsmith Water Service new river intake and treatment facility are important?
Q: Is a city’s OCP (official community plan) an important document for a municipal council? Why, why not?
A: The question is specious, for on the surface there can only be one answer — yes; but underneath there is the issue of deception for none of the alternatives or other issues are spoken to. How much planning has been done and money spent on alternatives? What will be the effect on residential taxes of the new intake and treatment facility, and should different sizes of plant be considered, with
A: I believe that the City’s OCP is perhaps the most important document for it provides the basis on which the City will maintain it’s values, culture and beliefs. It should not be just a bylaw that can be changed at the whim of council or by pressure from vested interests, such as land speculators. It must represent the wishes of the majority of the residents of Parksville.
Choose •Balance •Integrity •Common Sense •Commitment Choose
MARY BROUILETTE For Councillor Town of
Qualicum Beach Saturday, November 19th 2011
www.pqbnews.com
THE NEWS, Tuesday, November 15, 2011 •
B5
Civic Elections Nov. 19
COUNCIL CANDIDATES: CITY NEUFELD: Q: Is council accountable to the residents? How would you like to see its accountability change? A: The only time now that council is held fully accountable is at the election. The council is also held accountable by the presence in council meetings of residents and associations/societies that represent a significant percentage of the residents. I would like to see the city council and bureaucracy become more open and transparent with fewer in-camera sessions. From the discussions that I have had while campaigning, I have the sense that residents feel
as though they are being ignored. The only way Parksville residents can insure accountability is get each candidates platform and hold each of those elected to that platform position that the candidate has stated. Q: What are the three biggest and most urgent issues facing the City of Parksville? A: If you imagine a wagon wheel, with spokes radiating out to the rim, with the hub in the centre, the issues are: Water, Health, Environment, Economics, Living/Social Conditions, with the hub being city governance possibly being the greatest issue.
Teresa Patterson Q: What do you think of Parksville’s current goal of increasing business and residential density in the downtown core?
one to three per cent municipal tax increases of recent years are worth the services you would like to see the city provide?
A: A 1-3% tax increase A: I am fully supportis needed just to mainive of Parksvilles’ current goals of increasing tain our aging infrastructure, density of resthis doesn’t idential and begin to adcommercial dress new in the downtown core. needs such as sidewalks on As it helps to many of our reduce our streets, lightcarbon footing, bicycle print, helps to put into place and scooter lanes, or the the plans for proposed new younger famiTERESA PATTERSON intake and walies and youth ter filtration to work and live in Parksville. With facility. tax incentives to build Q: Do you believe the property and a needed planned Arrowsmith rental market, I look forWater Service new river ward to new businesses coming to Parksville, intake and treatment building our commercial facility are important? tax base. A: Absolutely, the Arrowsmith Water Service Q: Do you think the
OTE Nov 19th
has been mandated by VIHA, for the treatment facility. The intake as I have tried to explain in layman’s terms is that we need a bigger straw to bring the water in, with the turbidity of the water we can only draw so much. We also do not have control of our water as so much of it is outside of the city limits and not in our control. Q: Should an urgent health care centre be a priority for Parksville city council? A: An urgent health care facility, has to be a priority in 2012, it has been talked and discussed for decades now. Our population is only increasing and has an aging demographic, our residents should be able to age in place with out having to seek other communities for medical specialist’s or health needs. Q: Is a city’s OCP (official community plan) an important document for a municipal council? Why, why not? A: Our official com-
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PARKSVILLE
munity plan is a guiding document for future councils and residents. It is a document of how the future of Parksville will look, it is the voice of community, and a tool to negotiate the needs of the community when development occurs. Q: Is council accountable to the residents? How would you like to see its accountability change? A: As an elected councillor, I answer to the people of Parksville for the decisions I have made. I have always and will always state that I am accountable to those that vote, and all of my decisions have been with the future of Parksville in mind. Q: What are the three biggest and most urgent issues facing the City of Parksville? A: Our water treatment and filtration facility, the completion of our official community plan, with as much input as needed, and the urgent care facility.
Sue Powell Q: What do you think of Parksville’s current goal of increasing business and residential density in the downtown core?
units in the same area we are promoting sustainability because our citizens will no longer be dependent on driving to go shopping but will be able to walk to their destinations.
A: By SUE POWELL having more businesses in the downtown core Q: Do you think the we hope to revitalize our one to three per cent mubusiness community. nicipal tax increases of When we have residential recent years are worth
the services you would like to see the city provide? A: While it is difficult to decide about tax increases, we need to ensure that we provide for the safety and wellbeing of the residents in Parksville. As a city we need to ensure that we have safe drinking water, that our infrastructure is replaced in a timely manner and that we have the protection we need through fire protection and the RCMP. Q: Do you believe the planned Arrowsmith Water Service new river intake and treatment facility are important? A: I do think this is very important for our safety. The intake is very old and on its last legs and needs to be replaced sooner rather than later. VIHA, who manages our water safety, has directed the City that in order to meet the new requirements we need to have our water treated. Q: Should an urgent health care centre be a priority for Parksville city council? A: I think that we need to have an urgent care facility that has beds and the ability to provide urgent care. What we have is a clinic with extended hours of operation.
Q: Is a city’s OCP (official community plan) an important document for a municipal council? Why, why not? A: The OCP is very important to our council because it is created by the community stakeholders and this in turn gives us direction on how to proceed with developing and creating our community for the future. Q: Is council accountable to the residents? How would you like to see its accountability change? A: I believe council is accountable to both our residents and our business community. I have advocated to have our council meetings televised since 2008. We have all of the meeting minutes posted to our web site. Future agendas are posted the week prior to the committee of the whole meetings and the council meetings. Since the 2008 election we have had more and more community members attend our council meetings. There is an open format at the end for questions and answers. Q: What are the three biggest and most urgent issues facing the City of Parksville? A: Water intake and treatment facility. Completion of the OCP and urgent care centre.
Carrie Powell-Davidson Q: What do you think of Parksville’s current goal of increasing business and residential density in the downtown core? A: diversifying business so that we have a
broader spectrum of shops and services as well as better paying jobs would be more useful in attracting people to live downtown. Increasing residential density would allow for housing that is attainable and would
Bill LUCHTMEIJER COUNCILLOR - QUALICUM BEACH
Careful and Accountable with your tax dollars
B6 • THE NEWS, Tuesday, November 15, 2011
www.pqbnews.com
Civic Elections Nov. 19
COUNCIL CANDIDATES: CITY POWELL-DAVIDSON: allow people to live closer to all amenities so they wouldn’t need to rely upon vehicles-less cars on the road equals less emissions. Q: Do you think the one to three per cent municipal tax increases of recent years are worth the services you would like to see the city provide? A: I do think the 1-3% tax increases are CARRIE worth the services the POWELL-DAVIDSON city does provide. That equates to a cost of living increase and we get pretty good service for that. Q: Do you believe the planned Arrowsmith Water Service new river intake and treatment facility are important? A: Of course they are. Ensuring an adequate amount of potable water has to be our #1 job. Keeping it publicly owned must be #2 and this is why the City of Parksville is working hard to ensure that those improvements are wellplanned by us.
Q:What do you think of Parksville’s current goal of increasing business and residential density in the downtown core?
A: Considering Parksville’s role as a regional centre, and the cost efficiency of concentrating city services, it makes good sense to focus on optimizing the downtown core. Q: Do you think the one to three per cent municipal tax increases of recent years are worth the services you would like to see the city provide?
Q: Is council accountable to the residents? How would you like to see its accountability change? A: The residents elect us and entrust their city and tax dollars to us so of course, we are accountable to the residents. They are our bosses. Q: What are the three biggest and most urgent issues facing the City of Parksville? A: I still maintain that Parksville is in great shape. The big issues could be AWS upgrade, OCP completion and infrastructure upgrade. But for me, the biggest and most urgent issue we have facing us is how unbalanced we have allowed ourselves to become in terms of age demographic. A community cannot sustain itself if it doesn’t have a younger generation to service the older population and work towards inheriting a viable city.
ELECTION DAY Election day is Saturday, November 19. Check with your local government body on where you can cast your ballot.
Q: Should an urgent health care centre be a priority for Parksville city council?
A: Yes. It is a priority for the people here, therefore it must be a priority for the new council. Ensuring that our health care delivery is suited to our unique and local needs is of utmost importance to the entire community. Q: Is a city’s OCP (official community plan) an important document for a municipal council? Why, why not? A: Yes. Whether perfect or not, it is a model that describes the collaborative vision of the people who live here and emphasizes the intent and values that we are expected to uphold when making decisions on council.
A: No, but it should be a top priority for VIHA (Vancouver Island Health Authority).
A: Yes, it is. The OCP is the recipe for how the citizens want their city prepared. It then becomes the responsibility of council to prepare that city according to the recipe so municipal council essentially become the chefs.
PARKSVILLE
Jesse Schroeder Patricia Sibley
Q: Should an urgent health care centre be a priority for Parksville city council?
Q: Is a city’s OCP (official community plan) an important document for a municipal council? Why, why not?
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JESSE SCHROEDER
A: Though not necessary, recent tax increases combined with effective and creative optimization of our current service delivery model, will ideally lead us towards relative independence from senior government funding and an enhanced capacity to enact future projects on our own terms. Q: Do you believe the planned Arrowsmith Water Service new river intake and treatment facility are important? A: Both safe water and 50 million dollars are of great value and importance to the people of Parksville. I’m not yet convinced that we need to trade off one for the other. It is the decision making process that is most important. Let’s take a hard look at the numbers on this one and not spend our money foolishly.
Q: Is council accountable to the residents? How would you like to see its accountability change? A: Every three years council is accountable to residents. There are a number of ways to improve accountability between elections such as providing timely and transparent access to council decisions and rationale through various media and measuring the results. Q: What are the three biggest and most urgent issues facing the City of Parksville? A: Affordable Water. Affordable Living. Waterfront Integrity. Adhering to the values and sentiments of Parksville’s founders and residents when evaluating proposals for waterfront development and park expansion.
Q:What do you think of Parksville’s current goal of increasing business and residential density in the downtown core?
A: Parksville with its goal to be a dynamic city needs to insure services are available for residents of all ages while still maintaining it’s small down feel. Parksville can achieve this by providing an environment that encourages growth with a mix of commercial, medium density housing and other services in the downtown core. Q: Do you think the one to three per cent municipal tax increases of recent years are worth the services you would like to see the city provide?
city council? A: Council should support the overall wishes of the community in this project and be proactive with Vancouver Island Health Authority in achieving this goal. Q: Is a city’s OCP (official community plan) an important document for a municipal council? Why, why not? A: The official community plan is important because it is drawn from a community vision of what Parksville should become over the next 20 years. Although the OCP is not written in stone, with community approval, changes in the OCP can take place if the project presented to the city fits in with the overall concept of what the community was hoping to achieve.
A: The average home with a value of $316,000 had a tax increase of $70.00, including Parksville, District 69 School and Regional District of Nanaimo. It is estiQ: Is council PATRICIA SIBLEY mated that 40% of the accountable to the tax bill is for our school residents? How would system. An increase in services you like to see its accountability over what is currently provided change? will have a direct bearing on future tax burdens. Yes, I believe our A: The council is accountable services are worth the municipal to the residents. It is expected that taxes that are being paid. community meetings are held from time to time to keep the residents Q: Do you believe the planned up to date with current affairs. Arrowsmith Water Service new Being the level of government river intake and treatment facility that provides the most day to day are important? services for the residents, this is also the most open government of A: Council in their next term the three levels. needs to ensure that all avenues of water safety are researched so that Q: What are the three biggest the best options for safe drinking and most urgent issues facing the water in the future are made availCity of Parksville? able for community discussion and decision. A: Water (drinking), water (the Q: Should an urgent health care waterfront) and the official comcentre be a priority for Parksville munity plan.
Peter Simkin Q: What do you think of Parksville’s current goal of increasing business and residential density in the downtown core?
of recent years are worth the services you would like to see the city provide? A: Infrastrusture is key, roads to water, local health care to security. I believe there are means of securing those services with minimal to no tax increases.
A: Increasing business leads to a stronger economy and healtier tax base. Downtown residences enhance PETER SIMKIN business, reduce the need to expand expensive infrastructure and create an Q: Do you believe the planned inviting downtown atmosphere. Arrowsmith Water Service new river intake and treatment facility Q: Do you think the one to three per cent municipal tax increases Continued on page 9
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Civic Elections Nov. 19
COUNCIL CANDIDATES: CITY Charlie Stone Q; What do you think of Parksville’s current goal of increasing business and residential density in the downtown core?
A: A focus should be on better use of undeveloped property between Morrison and Harrison avenues (before considering extending Jensen Ave.) And, zoning should not allow construction of low density buildings downtown. Q: Do you think the one to three per cent municipal tax increases of recent years are worth the services you would like to see the city provide? A: No. I think we can provide better value to Parksville’s electorate. And, with a greater population, some functions of the city should cost less per person. Q: Do you believe the planned Arrowsmith Water Service new river intake and treatment facility are important?
A: Yes. It’s important to get this right to get desired benefits at lowest cost. That might mean having two intakes from Englishman river. It could also mean creating incentives and regulations for storing water for non-potable uses, and adding non-potable water supply lines. Q; Should an urgent health care centre be a priority for Parksville city council?
Q: Is a city’s OCP (official community plan) an important document for a municipal council? Why, why not? A: Yes, because, it was
Q: What do you think of Parksville’s current goal of increasing business and residential density in the downtown core? A: When we wrote the 1994 OCP, this core value. There appears to be minimal progress on this issue. The value of increased density downtown is important for safety, convenience and makes the potential for business investment attractive.
Q: Is council accountable to the residents? How would you like to see its accountability change?
CHARLIE STONE
A: Probably. I understand that good suggestions have been made. If elected, I’d learn more about this and work with others for getting good value for Parksville.
Jim Banks
how experts and others who made it envisioned good future development. But many applications for OCP amendments are made and approved with input from few people. I’ve presented reasons not to amend the OCP at Parksville hearings.
A: Council is accountable to residents (through elections), but I’d make it more accountable by having decisions about Englishman River water, RDN recreation, and other indirect functions voted on by all of council rather than one or two delegates. I’d try to have minutes of in-camera meetings released after they no longer need to be kept secret. And, I’d try to create a process to recall a councillor or mayor.
A: As a member of the original AWS planning group, I can say that in 1996, we predicted the need for the water treatment plant to be about 15 years off. As water is of paramount importance to life, the obvious answer is yes. Q: Should an urgent health care centre be a priority for Parksville city council?
A: Getting better value for electorate from City of Parksville and Regional District of Nanaimo (e.g. snow plowing, Englishman water, transit, recreation). How we’ll have optimal management in place, including planning for transition upon retirement of Chief Administrative Officer and Director of Community Planning. Reviewing zoning and OCP so that property is developed in a way that benefits Parksville rather than takes away from it, along the waterfront and elsewhere. For multifamily properties: lowering base density allowance but increasing density bonus for affordable housing.
A: No. The City should state their position on such a facility, provide that to VIHA, and then deal with city business. An Urgent Healthcare Centre is (will be) financed and staffed by (VIHA). The city must not get into the financing of provincial responsibilities. Q: Is a city’s OCP (official community plan) an important document for a municipal council? Why, why not?
A: Council is accountable to the residents. The residents elect the council, the council administers the expenditure of the residents’ money, therefore, they must be accountable. The major change, as I see it, is that voting should be like in Australia, compulsory, then a broad spectrum of opinion would be available. Q: What are the three biggest and most urgent issues facing the City of Parksville? A: Water, water and water.
PARKSVILLE
Q: What are the three biggest and most urgent issues facing the City of Parksville?
A: The OCP of any municipality is simply a road map to refer to, which has been contributed JIM BANKS to by the current residents. It is a dynamic document, which can Q: Do you think the one to three be addressed persons who feel they wish to go per cent municipal tax increases of recent outside it. However, such application must bear years are worth the services you would like to the weight of public scrutiny before council can see the city provide? move on such. Is it important? Yes. A: Yes, three per cent tax increases are a reaQ: Is council accountable to the residents? sonable amount. As municipalities must submit How would you like to see its accountability balanced budgets, this amount barely keeps up change? with wage and products cost increases. Q: Do you believe the planned Arrowsmith Water Service new river intake and treatment facility are important?
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Alicia Vanin Q; What do you think of Parksville’s current goal of increasing business and residential density in the downtown core? A: Residential density is key to providing Parksville with sustainable and attainable housing options. Our economics may fluctuate, but generally the cost of land is on the rise.
ALICIA VANIN
Q: Do you think the one to three per cent municipal tax increases of recent years are worth the services you would like to see the city provide? A: The municipal tax increases are necessary for the city to maintain its current inflation response structure, and that seems to be where the challenge lays. The city can work in servicing the community more efficiently through non-profit collaboration, and this may help us to lower the costs of many city projects and services. At this point in time, I am not satisfied with the city’s ability to provide services to the community.
B8 • THE NEWS, Tuesday, November 15, 2011
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Civic Elections Nov. 19
MAYORAL CANDIDATES: TOWN
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QUALICUM BEACH
Mike Wansink Q: What is your vision of leadership? A: Leadership is the capacity to motivate others to achieve a common aim. My career taught me it is necessary to adapt the styles of leadership to different situations. In emergency situations it must be directive; in diplomatic roles — collaborative; in coaching roles, it has to inspire the desire in others to perform to the best of their abilities. In community leadership, it needs to be both inspirational and collaborative. It needs to break down barriers to allow dialogue and remove silos of independent interest for the benefit of the whole. Successful strategic leaders adapt well to change. Q; What do you hope to be the most important accomplishment you would like to see at the end of your term?
A: To bear witin a climate of openness. District 69 is ness to Qualicum faced with a budget Beach retaining shortfall because KSS as a community based educational of declining high institution and that school enrolment in the short term. the groundwork for It is critical council the preservation of take a proactive a demographically approach, with the diverse community into the future is clear understandcompleted. The ing that the closure MIKE WANSINK Town and the of KSS would have an irreversible School District will impact on the social, cultural be partners on the same team to make it happen. and economic sustainability of Qualicum Beach. Q: What concrete steps do Q: What would the steps be you plan to take in order to help to ease the burden of taxation Kwalikum Secondary School on the residents of Qualicum remain a vital part of the comBeach? munity? A: Working collaboratively with our educational partners including students and parents, the school board, the ministry of education and local business
A: Seek consensus with council and staff in determining the standard best practices against which the town’s expenditures can be measured;
Carry out a comprehensive review of all capital, operations and HR activities to determine whether the taxpayer is getting good value for money; In accordance with the findings of the review, modify the town’s capital, operations and HR activities to the essential required to maintain a healthy infrastructure, renew capital assets that have depreciated to their economical limit and to maintain the executive and administrative service delivery required to meet the reasonable expectations of the taxpayer; Create a long term capital plan to provide predictability of future expenditures; Carry out new capital projects and programs only with the financial reserves already accumulated in the town’s accounts; Establish phased project approval processes to ensure that council and the taxpayer is fully aware of the projects’ costs at
the conception phase, development stage, definition stage and implementation stage; Create performance measurement indicators and standards and feedback mechanisms to adjust implementation as shortfalls are identified and to make appropriate revisions to town policies and procedures; Keep the citizens of the town fully apprised of the town’s plans and expenditures.
on the residents of Qualicum Beach?
people and compassion for those who need our help.
Q: If there was one wish you could grant to Qualicum Beach, what would it be? A: I would wish that it would be a thriving, inclusive, multigenerational, family-friendly and visitor-friendly community. It would completely satisfy me to see it fully sustainable — socially, economically, culturally and environmentally while retaining the small town flavour that we all enjoy.
Teunis Westbroek Q: What is your vision of leadership? A; The mayor needs to be a servant/leader of the council, advancing the decisions that come from the majority. Trust is critical to effective leadership and your actions must always be consistent with your words. It’s all about teamwork and empowering others to be the best they can be, whether they are colleagues on council, town staff, volunteer community organizations or ordinary citizens who want to make a contribution. The mayor’s job is to lead by example rather than using an overbearing executive style or micro-managing on specific issues. Results are always more effective when a leader works from a widely shared vision and this has always been my style.
Q: What do you hope to be the important accomplishment you would like to see at the end of your term?
community to get involved, including only supporting the candidates for Board of Education who will vote to keep KSS open; A: The impleTwo, renew mentation of the the relationship major elements of between the Town the OCP including and the Board of the development of TEUNIS WESTBROEK Education through the school bus site improved communibased on a shared cations and facilitacommunity vision, improving tion support; and protecting our waterfront, Three, open up the school building affordable housing and for family resources such as keeping KSS open and taking day care; recreation; a music other necessary action to attract academy and other revenue genand retain young families to erating uses that are compatible Qualicum Beach with the high school program, and; Q: What concrete steps do Four, expand and market the you plan to take in order to help international student compoKSS remain a vital part of the nent of KSS immediately. community? Q: What would the steps be A. One, encourage the entire to ease the burden of taxation
VANIN: Q: Do you believe the planned Arrowsmith Water Service new river intake and treatment facility are important?
Q; Should an urgent health care centre be a priority for Parksville city council?
A: Since we are dealing with a finite resource, the AWS plan must be coupled with conservation tactics within the community, if we do more than just redirect our current consumption levels.
A: We must look beyond a whole reliance on these centres, and the challenge of the urgent health care centre is working within the budgets of the city. This is a challenge I feel we need to stretch in of
itself, for I wholly support a push for a center which can match the quality of others in the area. Q: Is a city’s OCP (official community plan) an important document for a municipal council? Why, why not? A: The city’s OCP is an extremely important way to gauge the needs and
A: a) Improve efficiency of municipal services where feasible and appropriate while protecting the attractiveness of our small town. b) Ensure value for money based on careful analysis and audit findings. c) That tax increases are based on inflationary increases and necessary infrastructure improvement costs. d) Establish cost-sharing agreements for town-owned facilities that are used by residents of other jurisdictions. Q; If there was one wish you could grant to Qualicum Beach, what would it be? A: Health and prosperity for our residents in a safe community with a health environment, opportunities for our young
visions of the community, and as it serves as a legalized outline for community development the most important part of the process is the quality of community engagement. Q: Is council accountable to the residents? How would you like to see its accountability change? A: The council is ac-
countable to its residents, and must be legally, so it is not whether or not council is accountable, but the quality of which is at question. The quality is misshapen, and I would like to see more community engagement. Q: What are the three biggest and most urgent issues facing the City of
VOTING PLACES • Qualicum Beach: the Civic Centre • Parksville: the Parksville Community and Conference Centre and the Parksville Fellowship Baptist Church. • School District 69: the Parksville and Qualicum Beach locations, plus the equivalent RDN areas. • Regional District of Nanaimo: Area E: Nanoose Place Area F: Bradley Centre Area G: St. Columba Church (Wembley Road) Area H: Lighthouse Community Hall Parksville? A: The possibility of urban congestion in our downtown core; The city’s reactions to global inflation, and our towns corresponding attainability, and; Our growing economic concerns (on a federal level), and our municipal need to diversify (and therefore sustain) our economy.
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Civic Elections Nov. 19
COUNCIL CANDIDATES: TOWN
Suzanne Adkins Q: What is your vision for the future of the waterfront? A: I see the importance of maintaining the environment for the Brant geese and preserving the sand on the beach. I would like to see council have a fund for purchasing waterfront areas as they become available. I believe that development, hotels, motels, shops etc. should take place on the non-waterfront side of the highway dependent on environmental impact studies. Q: What should be done to facilitate KSS remaining open?
A: KSS should become a School of Excellence, obviously in music and perhaps in other fields. Specialize in Advanced Placement and the International Baccalaureate. Many parents are willing to pay for smaller classes in private schools and with educational businesses such as Sylvan. Let’s work with the school board to promote our public high school. Q: What should be done with the bus garage site? A: The area could be used as a public green space while input
Mar y Brouilette Q: What is your vision for the future of the waterfront? A: We need to protect the beaches for generations to come and work to enhance Qualicum Beach’s greatest asset by encouraging our tourist operators to upgrade and expand their operations. We need to encourage a tourist based economy. We must first address the safety concerns of both the pedestrians and the beach bank itself. Q: What should be done to facilitate KSS remaining open? A: First of all, let’s educate
ourselves and get out and vote carefully! There are many ideas being presented in a professional manner to enhance the physical use of KSS as well as expand some programs. There is an answer to protect our families, and together, we will find it. Q: What should be done with the bus garage site? A: This is another area which will require the collaboration of our residents, businesses and professionals, to come up with the best use. Personally, I would love to see a “commons” or green space, with a band shelter
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from the business transportation service to bring locals community and the public is acquired. to the commerDon’t rush to build. cial centre would The town should be support our fine able to recover most businesses. Expand it to bring tourists or all of its original costs and from the beach to any development town in the summer. should not burden The town needs to co-operate with the the town with long term financial SUZANNE ADKINS chamber of comcommitments. merce to publicize No existing faciliQualicum Beach ties such as TOSH, the Village as a place to visit and a place to Theatre, or the free enterprise live. galleries should be jeopardized. Q: What is your approach to development? Q: What can be done to help businesses in the uptown core? A: I like the small village feel A: I believe a small reliable we have. Developments should
fall within the height and architectural guidelines the town has set, so we don’t become a carbon copy of any other beach town or a wannabe city. We should take another look at some of the “big ideas” from the OCP discussions.
and maybe out door art. To finance a green space like this would require some mixed use projects on the periphery, as well as addressing the parking issue. I don’t believe further tax dollars should be spent on development but should be put to the private sector.
unchecked development but this is the time for innovation while protecting our unique community and environment.
step which can only benefit all of us. Also the 2012 Celebrations, “Forever Young in Qualicum Beach” should bring some new tourists to our area.
MARY BROUILETTE
Q: What can be done to help businesses in the uptown core? A: First, shop locally. We have come together to develop a co-operative and collaborative approach to promoting Qualicum Beach. This is huge first
Tom Davies
monitor the steep banks above the highway to prevent slide activity.
Q: What is your vision for the future of the waterfront?
Q: What should be done to facilitate KSS remaining open?
A: Identify a clearly visible continuous walkway behind
SIMKIN: are important? A: Whereas surface water treatment is being provincially mandated, I believe this is an important start to achieving water security. Q: Should an urgent health care centre be a priority for Parksville city council? A: I have seen this be a major concern since I moved here in early 1990’s, and I suspect even before then. My
the businesses along the beach from the bottom of Memorial to the Rotary Park area. Keep on top of possible wave erosion of our beachfront. Continuously
emergency medical career makes an emergency/urgent care facility my top priority. Q: Is a city’s OCP (official community plan) an important document for a municipal council? Why, why not? A: An OCP is one of council’s most important documents, as it outlines the future of Parksville in the eye of all our stakeholders. Q: Is council accountable to the residents? How would you like to see its account-
QUALICUM BEACH
A: Don’t mess with providing quality continuous educa-
ability change? A: Council must be accountable to all voters. I believe being accessible and recognizable to the people leds to better accountability, getting out in the public even after an election. Q: What are the three biggest and most urgent issues facing the City of Parksville? A: Emergency/Urgent Care Facility, Water security and the Official Community Plan.
Q: What is your approach to development?
A: It is up to your next council to make a concerted effort to entice developers to build on those vacant lots all over town. We, as community leaders, must develop strong relationships with our developers and be willing to work collaboratively with them. No one in Qualicum Beach wants tion from K to 12 in Qualicum. Keep KSS open and be creative with attracting programs and revenue to keep it open. Q: What should be done with the bus garage site? A: This is an important
Q: What needs to happen in order for QB to thrive? A: QB needs to continue to thrive. We should encourage high paying consulting and professional jobs that communicate with clients electronically, possibly even branches of companies, to locate here. A small business centre would be an asset to many home based and independent businesses.
Q: What needs to happen in order for QB to thrive? A: Let’s tell everyone about it! Our businesses need to go the extra step in courtesy, service and product. Council needs to encourage at every opportunity, new visions and goals with the same vigour as our community volunteers demonstrate in so many ways. Transportation is a major issue in this area and we must address this. Promote arts and culture as an economic driver. We have a tremendous wealth of talent in our very neighbourhoods. keystone site location which has cost a significant amount of taxpayer’s dollars. It would be foolish to jump the gun to develop anything until all options have been considered. This site cries for something unique.
B10 • THE NEWS, Tuesday, November 15, 2011
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Civic Elections Nov. 19
COUNCIL CANDIDATES: TOWN DAVIES: Q: What can be done to help businesses in the uptown core? A: Events like Fire and Ice and the Car Show attract thousands. Other events like theatre and Sunday concerts bring people to the Town core. What other attractions can be created or sponsored to encourage shopping at the Town businesses?
interest of Qualicum Beach. Keep an open mind to developing only those projects that will add value to Qualicum Beach to make it an even better place to live. Q: What needs to happen in order for QB to thrive?
A: Foster and market the image that Qualicum Beach is a safe, family friendly place with a great atmosphere where people love to live beQ: What is your TOM DAVIES approach to developcause the community is so alive and dynamment? ic. Use that approach as a magnet A: Development for its own sake to attract professional companies hurts us all. Look at the big picture to relocate here and bring their employees and their families. and decide what is in the best
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QUALICUM BEACH
Carol Nicol Dowe Q: What is your vision for the future of the waterfront?
standings and surprising decisions. I believe we need to increase our number of international students and make it a priority to develop and attract them. They, plus their visiting families would be a great indirect boost to the local economy.
A: Having lived here 25 years, we have enjoyed the pristine beauty of our oceanfront. Perhaps we could provide a seawalk that would make it easier for us to take walks from the Old Dutch up to the Shady Rest Q: What should CAROL NICOL DOWE We could probe done with the vide a walking path with lights bus garage site? on the oceanfront and have A: We have an opportunity some fitness stations along the to consider several possibilipath. ties, from a multi-use facility that would include cinema, Q: What should be done to restaurant, youth activities, facilitate KSS remaining open? including sports and entertainment. We could work in A: I feel Council needs to al- conjunction with The Old ways be part of the KSS Board School House, the museum of Trustees meetings. and theatre groups. We need several families and three students chosen to Q: What can be done to help represent the community. businesses in the uptown core? There needs to be an open A: I feel we need to work door policy for the public so with the Oceanside Tourism to that we avoid any misunder-
package ourselves to Vancouver and Seattle metropolitan areas as well as our prairie provinces. This needs to marketed aggressively. Q: What is your approach to development? A: I think we should have more of an open mind for the submissions made to us and and yet continue to preserve the style and architecture of Qualicum Beach that is unique. We need to encourage the redevelopment of the three places we have lost. They had restaurants that we loved; the College Inn, Chesapeake and old George Inn. The theme of a nice restaurant surrounded by quality townhouses would be very appealing, similar to Crown Isle at Comox. Q: What needs to happen in order for QB to thrive? A: We need to develop a positive attitude and market ourselves. Americans come to Canada. We need to travel to Vancouver, Calgary Regina and Winnipeg and market ourselves to large groups, as a place to relax and have fun.
Bill Luchtmeijer
the kind of climate that encourages new or vital business ventures.
Q: What is your vision for the future of the waterfront?
Q: What is your approach to development?
A: I feel the waterfront should remain a mix of residential, tourist commercial and public park spaces. Some maintenance and repair work and a resolution to the burned out building site would be a good first step.
tenance or repairs. Q: What should be done with the bus garage site?
A: I feel there is no need to do anything with the site other than a cosmetic cleanup at this time. It will take some serious consultation BILL LUCHTMEIJER between council Q: What should be done to and the public to determine facilitate KSS remaining open? how this property fits the community’s long term needs. A: As the prime reasons for a proposed closure appear to Q: What can be done to help be financial, the town needs businesses in the uptown core? to work hand in hand with the school board to ensure A: Council needs to get off maximum use of the building, the no-growth bandwagon. including non school hour use We’ve been advertising a lack by public and private ventures of business potential by, setand, needs to collaborate on ting a population cap, raising shared servicing such as main- DCCs and taxes. This is not
A: At the current time I’m more concerned about going backwards than about development. We see burnt out buildings not being rebuilt, vacant hotel sites, empty lots and partly completed building sites in limbo. We need some development to maintain a vibrant livable community, which also means housing that young families can afford as well as a jobs for those young families. Q: What needs to happen in order for QB to thrive? A: Qualicum Beach needs to encourage a mix of active retirees, young families, small business and a viable tourism industry. With that in mind council must never forget to respect the taxpayers will, and ability to pay.
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B11
Civic Elections Nov. 19
COUNCIL CANDIDATES: TOWN
Richard Mennie Q: What is your vision for the future of the waterfront?
Otherwise it should remain as is as a pristine attraction.
Q: What should A: I believe the be done to facilitate waterfront is our KSS remaining most attractive asset. I can see some open? paving and enhanceA: The Council ment to the Brant should try to be a viewing area being concerned, supbeneficial. Also portive and empasome maintenance and upgrading thetic partner with around the seawall the School District and walking area. who will make the RICH MENNIE decision. We need Coming to a resoluto participate in tion suitable to the owner regarding the property their open budget meetings to assist in trying to find financial adjacent to the Sand Pebbles would also be very desirable. savings, revenue sources and
Scott Tanner Q: What is your vision for the future of the waterfront?
Q: What should be done to facilitate KSS remaining open?
A: Our waterfront is not for sale. The views and access are there for all to enjoy. Any improvements or changes to the current waterfront properties must consider the future possibility of sea level rise. Interpretive signage describing the marine ecosystem and type of marine life found on our beaches would be a great education tool for both the local residents and tourists alike.
A: KSS is so important to our community that town council must find ways to work with the school board to ensure that KSS remains open. Q: What should be done with the bus garage site? A: There are many possibilities for its development, but it is imperative that it be developed in such a way as to fit in with
Dave Willie Q: What is your vision for the future of the waterfront? A: The beach is the Town’s best asset. We need to make the beach area more accessible,
I will put this to work on the new Health Care Centre and to develop a Regional Water Service.
250-248-5806 - duaneround@shaw.ca www.electduaneround.jigsy.com
On November 19th, Elect
Duane Round Director of Area G
✗
help them succeed. More high density housing close to the downtown would result in more local shopping.
creative ideas that meet their needs. Q: What should be done with the bus garage site? A: It should be operated/ developed by private enterprise not the Town. The Town should seek out ideas from interested purchasers to see what would be viable and how it would fit into the vision for the downtown core. Q: What can be done to help businesses in the uptown core? A: I suggest we maintain a close, consultative relationship with the Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Business Association. They are the ones who should know how the Town can
Q: What is your approach to development? A: I support careful and thoughtful development. More high density housing, town home/patio housing, and single family development on the periphery of the downtown core would be desirable. We need to encourage good viable projects making it easier for them to succeed as there are many projects that have started, then simply stopped, possibly for economic reasons as much as any other reason. We need to be cautious in commercial development outside the downtown core
our existing community and reflect the design values similar to our Town Hall and library. It must also operate independently with no subsidy from the taxpayers. Q: What can be done to help businesses in the uptown core?
as a destination for shoppers and tourists. Special events are great examples of what can be achieved by mutual support between the Town and the business community.
SCOTT TANNER
Q: What should be done to facilitate KSS remaining open? A: We must put the effort into finding a solution to overcome
Elect Suzanne
ADKINS COUNCILLOR
Q: What is your approach to development?
A: I believe Qualicum Beach has demonstrated well managed and controlled growth and will continue to support the principles of our recently updated OCP to ensure growth remains
A: The town must continue to work with the Merchants Association and chamber of commerce to explore new ideas for marketing Qualicum Beach enable us to widen or move the road. We need to work together to ensure that the beach area is the jewel it was and needs to be.
pedestrian friendly and safe. We need to encourage opportunities for entertainment, perhaps a waterfront playground for kids, perhaps filling in the ditch on the south side of the road to
Having been involved with many volunteer groups including the latest as Building Chair of the Lions Affordable Housing on Jensen Avenue, I have shown that I can bring different governments and organizations together for a common good.
QUALICUM BEACH
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this challenge to our community. The start is to elect school trustees committed to keeping KSS open. Perhaps moving Woodwinds, perhaps moving the school district office, expanding the international student program, or a music academy. We need to provide opportunities for fami-
Elect
because of infrastructure costs. Well paying, environmentally friendly enterprises should certainly be welcomed, encouraged and sought after however. Q: What needs to happen in order for QB to thrive? A: One definition of thrive is to “grow strongly and vigorously.” I think to thrive, the community itself, council and local business, must meet the needs of its residents. For many, their social and recreational needs are well met. We need to champion local business success giving residents easier access to competitive products and services locally and encourage development within walking distance of the town centre. sustainable and healthy. Q: What needs to happen in order for QB to thrive? A: First and foremost we must ensure that KSS remains open and engaged in our community. Our OCP is the balanced and guiding document that allows us to thrive in a sustainable fashion. Further promotion and expansion of our tourist industry can be achieved by capitalizing on Qualicum Beach’s natural assets and beauty such as our beaches, arts, culture and panoramic view scapes which provide our active social and recreational opportunities. lies with children to live and work in Qualicum Beach. Q: What should be done with the bus garage site? A: Not one more cent of taxpayer’s money should be spent on the bus garage site until the taxpayers of Qualicum Beach
Leanne SALTER for
Community Driven Solutions to advance solutions that address our unique identity as Area F residents.
B12 • THE NEWS, Tuesday, November 15, 2011
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Civic Elections Nov. 19
COUNCIL CANDIDATES: TOWN OF QUALICUM BEACH
SCHOOL DISTRICT 69 (QUALICUM) Julie Austin
funding, what are your budget priorities?
Ed Woloshyn
Q: Is the school board accountable to the public? How would you like to see its accountability change?
Q: What is your vision for the future of the waterfront?
A: To achieve the best and avoid the worst will require that parents, students, teachers and community are active participants, not passive recipients. The role of the school board will be to actively promote this collaboration through open and transparent multi directional communication.
A: Retaining a natural waterfront with the preservation of current sensitive areas. To attain this we must work with wildlife management and other personal that are assigned to oversee development. Q: What should be done to facilitate KSS remaining open?
Q: What can be done to help businesses in the uptown core? A: A need of high-tec industry thus added population would warrant the purchase of more local goods and services from the existing businesses. Ways of increasing tourism to our area would be an asset as well. Q: What is your approach to development?
A: In keeping KSS open, the school board, staff, town council and A: Well planned, citizens of Qualicum well designed, with Beach must work in moderate development harmony. Other proas required. ED WOLOSHYN grams could be added to increase student enrolment. Q: What needs to happen in order for QB to thrive? Q: What should be done with the bus garage site? A: Moderate growth with young families, additional business deA: Town council should not velopment thus increased school spend additional tax dollars on enrolment, sustaining our current this property. Good long range local businesses and creating a planning, public input with private well balanced community. investment is needed for development. WILLIE: have had an opportunity to review all of the costs incurred. We have heard about an arts centre, a pub, and a boutique hotel. Ideas are great, but the development of this site needs to be economically viable. Above all else the old school bus depot site must never saddle the taxpayers with on-going operational costs. Q: What can be done to help businesses in the uptown core?
portunities. Qualicum Beach is blessed with natural beauty and climate, but we have huge scars in our community, some of which have been unoccupied for over 15 years. These empty lots and stalled projects represent lost opportunities and are an example of poor collaboration. Surely we can make better use of all these opportunities. We need functional housing — ground level access residences that are wheelchair and scooter friendly. Housing that seniors and families with children want and can afford.
A: We can assist our residents who own and operate their restaurant, clothing store or retail outlet in Q: What needs to the downtown core by bringing more people happen in order for QB to thrive? into downtown. We DAVE WILLIE need housing people A: For Qualicum Beach to want in the downtown core. We need to attract the residents of survive as a sustainable, liveable community we must seize the Qualicum Beach, Bowser, Dashopportunities our community wood, Whiskey Creek, Coombs, Errington and Hilliers to shop in wants. We need KSS to thrive. We Qualicum Beach. must recognize a thriving business section. Our vision of downtown Q: What is your approach to densification, set out in the OCP, development? must recognize the lack of demand for commercial space and allow for A: Housing in Qualicum Beach mixed residential use. What we do requires a collaborative approach not need is a downtown with more to find common ground and opempty commercial space.
A: A school board that actively supports creative community initiatives will reverse declining enrollment. My budget priorities would be to tap into a myriad of alternative funding sources for creative initiatives in education from provincial and federal governments, foundations, NGOs, service clubs, and the business community. Q: What are the three biggest and most urgent issues facing School District 69?
A: Making education meaningful, relevant, and engaging in ways Q: With the specter of school JULIE AUSTIN that facilitate community buildclosures in the district how will you ing and individual self-realization address this issue? across all ages and interests would be my first priority as trustee. A: I don’t see a specter of school closure. I Uncovering and supporting the latent abilisee opportunity to expand already excellent programs into Centers of Excellence. There are ties of our communities to achieve these goals would be my number two priority. opportunities for expansion ... and are unlimIntroducing more transparency and developited once we start tapping into the wisdom and ing more collaboration amongst all parties with expertise of elders in our community. contributions to make to education would be my third priority. Q: With declining enrolment and therefore
Bruce Cownden
and policy 3040 to guide them.
Q: Is the school board accountable to the public? How would you like to see its accountability change?
Q: With declining enrolment and therefore funding, what are your budget priorities? A: Improving student achievement and maintaining a consistent high level of student learning for all the children of School District 69.
A: The District 69 School Board has been accountable to the public as per provincial legislation and through regular public board meetings. I would like to see an annual School Board self-review, as one way to make the Board more accountable.
Q: What are the three biggest and most urgent issues facing School District 69?
A: Relationships: Most of a School Board’s work should be accomplished through relationships Q: With the spectre of school BRUCE COWNDEN with others. A communication plan closures in the district how will you would be an important first step. address this issue? Declining Enrolment: This could have a huge impact on District 69 if we were to lose funding A: At no time have I ever heard a member of this School Board say they would close a school. protection in the future. Class Size and Composition: Legislated hard The only fear of a school closure is the result numbers limit flexibility for school based learnof a small group of misinformed, like minded, ing teams and cause thousands of grievances single issue candidates seeking political gain. being filed by teachers, draining precious reShould the board face school closures, they will sources away from the district and classrooms. have the community dialogue process results
Eve Flynn
this issue? A: I hope the community dialogue discussions will provide the Board with opportunities that will maintain service levels to classrooms across the district and consider revenue generating options if profitable. We must keep upper most in our minds the educational opportunities for all the children in the district given that only five per cent of the budget is not tied to contract obligations.
Q: Is the school board accountable to the public? How would you like to see its accountability change? A: I believe our school board is accountable. The school board meets monthly to discuss ongoing management issues, policy and to receive delegations from schools or the public. At the end of the meeting there is also an opportunity for public question period.
EVE FLYNN
Q: With the spectre of school closures in the district how will you address
Q: With declining enrolment and therefore funding, what are your budget priorities?
A: The Board must continue to manage the
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B13
Civic Elections Nov. 19
SCHOOL DISTRICT 69 (QUALICUM) Barr y Kurland Q: Is the school board accountable to the public? How would you like to see its accountability change? A: School board accountability must also include the impact that school operations have on communities when making decisions. The current board ignored community impact when it accepted the Matrix report and that has to change. Q: With the spectre of school closures in the district how will you address this issue?
Responsible decision-making takes a long-term view of enrolment and revenue, and should recognize that our schools are valuable community assets. The main budget priority must always be the students in our classrooms, including services to students with special needs. The utilization of temporary spare capacity will also be a key budget priority. The best way is to find ways to use it productively while decreasing expenses in another area. We need to join together with school trustees in other districts and lobby the ministry for a more sensible funding formula.
Q: What are the three A: Closing a school is biggest and most urgent isprobably the least cost BARRY KURLAND sues facing School District efficient path to take. Our 69? schools are in excellent condition and are significant assets to A: Planning for the temporary dip our communities. Instead, productive in enrolment and revenue. The school ways will be found to use temporary board needs to explore ways to both spare capacity in our schools such increase revenue and reduce expenses. as creating neighbourhood learnRestoring public trust in the school ing centres and expanding programs board. The facilities plan review that bring in more students. Closing process, and subsequent handling of schools is not the answer. that process by the current board, did considerable damage to public trust. Q: With declining enrolment and This trust needs to be re-established. therefore funding, what are your budPreserving existing curricular get priorities? programs and creating innovative new ones that better connect our schools to A: Enrolment is fluctuating, not our communities. New programs that declining. The low point of enrolment are more connected to our communioccurs in 2015 or 2016, after which ties are needed. enrolment starts to increase again. FLYNN: budget with the main goal being to keep cuts as far away from the classroom as possible. My priority is to preserve delivery of educational services to students through sound fiscal management. Q: What are the three biggest and most urgent issues facing School District 69? A: To complete the facilities review and have the Board make formal recommendations. To ensure the continued growth of the District Career Prep and apprenticeship programs. To actively pursue the Ministry of Education Plan for personalized learning through flexibility and choice, high standards and learning empowered by technology for each child in our district.
✗
Lynette Kershaw Q: Is the school board accountable to the public? How would you like to see its accountability change?
Q: With declining enrolment and therefore funding, what are your budget priorities? A: My number one priority will be to the students and teachers first. The board should actively petition the Ministry of Education to change the funding formula to ensure realistic funding of our schools.
A: Trustees are elected by the people and therefore accountable to them. This shouldn’t change; rather the new board needs to take immediate steps to make itself more accessible, open and transparent to the public. Q: With the spectre of school closures in the district how will you address this issue?
Q: What are the three biggest and most urgent issues facing School District 69? LYNETTE KERSHAW
A: A complete and open analysis of board expenditures and processes needs to be done. The current board has not made available to the public any evidence of ideas, considerations or identifying revenue streams to increase its operating budget. There are many ideas to increase revenues, which need to be explored before school closures are considered. I will work diligently to keep all our schools open.
A: Lack of communication and collaboration. It seems to me that there is a complete disconnect between the board and the community, the board and the municipalities, the board and teachers. Lack of a community generated strategic plan. The new board needs to come up with one. Teachers’ job action. Our students are affected first and foremost by any disruptions. Working with teachers on locally bargained issues would be a priority.
creative thinking and the potential Willow Bloomquist some amalgamation of a number of different Q: Is the school board accountable to the public? How would you like to see its accountability change?
district offices/workspaces we could save enough money in the current budget to keep all our schools open.
A: Yes, absolutely. I’m not sure that I would want to see the accountability change, what I would like to see is that the next elected board actually honour that expected accountability and not hide behind policies.
Q: With declining enrolment and therefore funding, what are your budget priorities?
A: I would have to say that my budget priorities aren’t things — they are people. Obviously my first priority is the students of the district and second would be the teachers. Q: With the spectre of I want to make sure that all WILLOW BLOOMQUIST school closures in the district budget decisions made in this how will you address this district are considering the issue? potential positive or negative impact on A: My intention, if elected to the School students first and foremost. Board of District 69, is to do everything Q: What are the three biggest and most in my power to ensure that no schools in urgent issues facing School District 69? our district have to be closed. I think with
ED WOLOSHYN
“Believer in Open Council, Common Sense and Good, Mature Leadership.” Communication is Key! Working in harmony with citizens, school board, health centre and members of council to achieve our goals! Bringing over 14 years experience as former mayor and councillor of Kindersley, Sask.
For Qualicum Beach Councillor Saturday, November 19th
Let me be YOUR voice in Area F On Saturday, Nov. 19th, vote
Richard de Candole RDN director for Area F • A hard worker • A good listener • A team player
B14 • THE NEWS, Tuesday, November 15, 2011
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Civic Elections Nov. 19
SCHOOL DISTRICT 69 (QUALICUM) Ross Milligan Q: Is the school board accountable to the public? How would you like to see its accountability change? A: The school board is accountable to the public. I would like to see the introduction of a recall mechanism.
Jill Pinkerton
Q: With declining enrolment and therefore funding, what are your budget priorities?
Q: Is the school board accountable to the public? How would you like to see its accountability change?
A: Continue to fund all schools, decrease class size, raise revenues by expanding the international student program, develop centres of excellence, decrease school board administration expenses, use innovations to reduce costs.
A: Our accountability is already defined by SD69 policy and legislation. What I see needing to change is the transparency and openness in the way we conduct the business of the school district.
Q: What are the three biggest and most urgent issues facing School District 69?
Q: With the spectre of school closures in the district how will you address this issue?
A: Declining enrolment and consequential declining revenue. The school board A: I would issue a stateneeds to use imagination in ment that the board will not determining ways to address close KSS. The benefit of this declining revenues, other action is that it will immethan the closing of schools. diately alleviate anxiety in ROSS MILLIGAN There is a need for engageQualicum Beach. ment of the community parI would engage the comticularly on critical issues and strategic munity in identifying, and analyzing planning. The board needs to place an viable options to raise revenue and deemphasis on the affects of its decisions on crease expenses. I would consult with the the community especially when considercommunity to determine which school ing school closures or reconfigurations. would be closed.
Bill Preston Q: Is the school board accountable to the public? How would you like to see its accountability change? A: The ultimate accountability is at the election box. As a trustee I am accountable any time — at the other end of the phone, an email received, an encounter while attending a school event or a chance meeting in the community. What is missing are regular, informal public forums that ensure there is widespread understanding of the issues. Q: With the spectre of school closures in the district how will you address this issue? A: Trustees have never accepted that BLOOMQUIST: A: I could make it easy and state that school closures, budget shortfalls and declining enrolment are the three biggest issues. They are urgent problems absolutely
any school in SD 69 should be closed. We need to investigate every possible way of increasing school district revenues. We should explore partnerships with business, First Nations, other community organizations, and with all levels of government.
Q: With the spectre of school closures in the district how will you address this issue?
Q: With declining enrolment and therefore funding, what are your budget
BILL PRESTON
and I will keep one of them as something I see as a large and urgent problem which is the potential closure of KSS. However the other two things I feel are the most urgent problems are: the
Q: What are the three biggest and most urgent issues facing School District 69? A: Funding. We need to continue to lobby government. Collaboration. Working more collaboratively with all Education Partner groups. Keeping all schools open. Through collaboration, partnerships, and new initiatives.
need for a new school board, one with a greater ability to think outside the box, and; a lack of community involvement and inclusion in the school district. The Oceanside community as a whole
Elect ...
Lance Pope For Director of Area ‘G’
Working Towards .... Qualicum Beach is a safe, family friendly community with a great small town atmoshere.
My Agenda: • to serve the voters • to be a voice of reason tdavies3@gmail.com
Local Issues Holding the line on Property Taxes Affordable Housing Promoting Economic Growth & Tourism Environmental Protection Sustainable Water Source RDN Transparency
Provincial Issues 24-Hour Emergency Care Assisted Living Care & Palliative Care Maintaining Quality Education Hospital Living Wage for Working Families
“Leadership with a fresh perspective.�
www.lancempope.com
Q: What are the three biggest and most urgent issues facing School District 69?
A: Declining enrolment and the resulting decrease in funding. The need for the board to be open and transparent and willing to listen and work with all stakeholders. Rebuilding the trust and respect for the Board of Education. We need communication, collaboration and creativity.
streams. Look for efficiencies and cost savings. Support existing Personalized Learning initiatives and fund new projects. Enhance district Career Education and Dual Credit programs. Increase funding for special needs students, and address classroom composition issues.
A: Explore entrepreneurial opportunities and partnerships to increase revenue
Qualicum Beach Town Council
A: I would make sure that we are providing the best quality educational experience for our students with the available resources. I would also try and find alternate funding sources. I want to review the district administrative staffing and compare our staffing levels to other districts of comparable size to see where we can make reductions which would allow us to put money back into the classrooms.
JILL PINKERTON
A: There are many other solutions that need to be explored prior to examining school closures. I do not want to use a long term solution for a short term problem.
Q: With declining enrolment and therefore funding, what are your budget priorities?
ELECT Tom Davies
priorities?
Martin Stewart Q: Is the school board accountable to the public? How would you like to see its accountability change? A: I believe the public can make good choices if provided with the right information and I think it is the responsibility of the Trustees to provide that information. If elected, I will invite Nanoose Bay residents to meet me on a regular basis to share information and ideas. Q: With the spectre of school closures in the district how will you address this issue?
has a wealth of knowledge and expertise that is largely untapped by the school board. This could be utilized in a myriad of ways to allow all sides to function in a more cohesive and fine tuned manner.
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THE NEWS, Tuesday, November 15, 2011 •
B15
Civic Elections Nov. 19
SCHOOL DISTRICT 69 Janet Touhey Q: Is the school board accountable to the public? How would you like to see its accountability change? A: Without a doubt the school board is accountable to the public. I would like to see more transparency to the public by effective communication that provides clear information and encourages participation. Q: With the spectre of school closures in the district how will you address this issue?
REGIONAL DISTRICT
A: I believe that although we choose to live in a community where enrolment is down our children still deserve a quality individualized education within easy reach of their homes. How is the Ministry of Education changing their plan? Check out the ministry of education’s new interactive website. Q: What are the three biggest and most urgent issues facing School District 69?
JANET TOUHEY
A: I believe as a trustee you share the responsibility along with the other four trustees to be informed with the correct information, due diligence and seek community input to alternative out of the box thinking and action plans to implement an alternative rather than closing schools. Q: With declining enrolment and therefore funding, what are your budget priorities?
A: 1. Enrolment decline and maintaining schools in all communities. Working within the budget restraints to provide a learning environment that enhances excellence and achievement for all our students. Creating a better community vision of our education system Our community needs to work together to support education and continued learning at all ages.
your budget priorities? STEWART: A: Moving Board offices into underutilized A: My priority will be to understand the schools to reduce rents and operational costs. calculation of the current budget well Expanding the already enough to inform the successful International Student Program. public of our current financial position and Partnering with post-secondary instituhow our money is being spent. tions to offer their Duel Credit programs MARTIN STEWART Q: What are the in SD69 schools. Makthree biggest and ing school facilities available to private and profesmost urgent issues facing School sional organizations outside school District 69? hours. A: The election of trustees. Q: With declining enrolment Public trust. Long term planning. and therefore funding, what are
Joe Stanhope - Area G Q: What is your opinion on the issue of watershed protection?
Q: What is your input on the regional growth review?
Ken Dawson - Area E
A: With completion of new recently approved Nanoose Bay fire hall, fire protection will be at safer levels.
A: The RDN managers have a good handle on the problems and have prepared a comprehensive report that all interested voters should read.
Q: What is your input to meet our area’s increasing health care demands?
A: Build more gymnasiums and playing fields, fewer hospitals. Promote in-home KEN DAWSON care. Charge $250 extra for every A: The Regional Growth Review visit to doctors with the funds should be analyzed yearly and changgoing directly to chronic disease research. Dises made to the review as conditions change. continue nurses’ 12 hour shifts. Q: What is your input on the regional growth review?
George Holme - Area E
attended and those who did attend, were mostly the same people who attend other meetings.
Q: What is your opinion on the issue of watershed protection?
Q: Is fire protection in RDN at safe levels?
A: It is and always has been, in my opinion, that all jurisdictions should participate, and at an equal rate. The municipalities are by far the biggest users and so far are not participants. As it is, they want to be partners but at a “phased-in” rate. Q: What is your input on the regional growth review?
A: My feeling is that yes, fire protection in the RDN is at safe levels at the time. As the population increases, we will have to increase manpower. Q: What is your input to meet our area’s increasing health care demands?
A: The Regional Growth review, in my view, has not been taken seriously by the majority of the public. The open houses were not well
A: There must be some form of emergency service established in District 69, whether it is an “Emergency Room” type of service or Intermediate care. Remember, Parksville/Qualicum has the oldest per capita ratio in Canada.
Bob Rogers - Area E
Q: What is your input on the regional growth review?
Q: What is your opinion on the issue of watershed protection? A: I support the RDN’s Regional Growth Strategy intent to work with property owners and other stakeholders to protect our water resources. The long-term protection of watersheds and aquifers to enhance the region’s ability to source, supply and distribute quality surface and groundwater in an equitable manner is and will continue to be one of the most critical matters addressed by the RDN.
A: Fire protection in Area G is at safe levels and is covered by dedicated professionals from Nanoose, Parksville, Qualicum and Dashwood.
A: The original plan was in response to residents’ concerns about the impact of rapid population growth. The current review has been expanded to include new concerns regard-
Q: Is fire protection in RDN at safe levels?
Q: What is your opinion on the issue of watershed protection?
Q: Is fire protection in RDN at safe levels?
JOE STANHOPE
NANAIMO
Editor’s Note: To fit all candidates into these pages, some questions have been eliminated, others have been edited for brevity.
ing climate change, food security, affordable housing and our goals of sustainability. I fully support the RGS.
A: Watershed Protection is the single most important issue we deal with. I initiated the minimum parcel size in all the resource areas to curb urban sprawl into the forestry properties to protect our aquifer recharge areas.
OF
Q: What is your input to meet our area’s increasing health care
demands? A: VIHA make all the decisions on health care in our region. I support the Oceanside Health Centre project. I also support the improvements to the Nanaimo Regional Hospital.
A: The regional growth review has resulted in the Regional Growth Strategy, the success of which will depend on public support and economically viable implementation. Q: What is your input to meet our area’s increasing health care demands? BOB ROGERS
A: The RDN does have a responsibility and the opportunity to act as an advocate for balanced health care in the region.
Re-Elect Joe Stanhope Director Area ‘G’ Joe will: • Work diligently with integrity & availability • Maintain financial responsibility • Investigate all issues raised by residents • Support the Oceanside Health Centre Project • Work to maintain our sustainable quality of life
250-248-6401 • jstanhope@shaw.ca VOTE FOR JOE STANHOPE
Nov. 19th at St. Columba Presbyterian Church, 921 Wembley Road, Parksville
B16 • THE NEWS, Tuesday, November 15, 2011
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Civic Elections Nov. 19
REGIONAL DISTRICT
Editor’s Note: Area H candidate Bill Veenhof won his seat by acclamation. Read his responses on page A6.
Q: What is your opinion on the issue of watershed protection?
cultural heritage. Q: Is fire protection in RDN at safe levels?
A: I feel our watersheds should be protected and that the RDN should be pro-active in safeguarding our drinking water. This could mean doing things like restricting logging at the headwaters of our rivers, particularly the Englishman River.
A: Response times to fires are not always as good as they could be, particularly during weekdays when most firefighters are working and not located close to the hall. DE CANDOLE
A: The current review of the Regional Growth Strategy has resulted in the addition of four new goals since the RGS was last revised in 2003. As a result the new RGS now puts emphasis on such things as climate change, energy reduction, affordable housing, food security and celebrating V.I.’s natural beauty and our
Q: What is your input to meet our area’s increasing health care demands?
A: Providing Area F first responders with more advanced medical equipment and training would ensure residents receive a high level of treatment in the shortest possible time. Adding an urgent care and diagnostic facility in Oceanside would also help meet the area’s increasing health care needs.
Skye Donald - Area F Q: What is your opinion on the issue of watershed protection?
Editor’s Note: Area H candidate Bill Veenhof won his seat by acclamation. Read his responses on page A6.
any village centre in Area F as a “local service centre” as described in the RGS. Q: Is fire protection in RDN at safe levels? A: The shortage of volunteers is a concern, but according to our fire departments, yes.
SKYE DONALD
A: I appreciate the need for a document like the RGS, but it continues to limit the ability of residents in Area F to direct the shape of our own community. I do not support the redesignation of
Q: What is your input to meet our area’s increasing health care demands?
A: I’m disappointed with the design of the Oceanside Health Centre. Supporting healthy activity and exercise is one way the RDN can help build a healthy community.
Juilan Fell - Area F Q: What is your opinion on the issue of watershed protection? A: My views on water are given in my website www. julianfell.ca. For city water I see a lack of foresight. The matter should be one of long term assurance rather than short term protection.
A: By RDN, I presume you mean the electoral areas. There is enough (thank goodness) for a one or two shift episode. In the event of a drawn out forest fire, we have no reserves. In the case of southeast Errington, there is a lack of an alternate escape route. The provincial attitude is “Let ‘em burn.”
Q: What is your input on the regional growth review? JULIAN FELL
A: The RGMP is ideologically driven and serious flaws. It is a form of warfare upon and purging of young and poor people in the area. The RDN also uses the RGMP to oppose democracy in the electoral areas. Q: Is fire protection in RDN at safe levels?
Leanne Salter - Area F Q: What is your opinion on the issue of watershed protection? A: Water needs to be protected for the people and ecosystems within the Regional District. As communities, we need to maintain vigilance with regard to international trade agreements such as CETA, TIA, SPP, and others which have the ability to usurp control over our local resources.
vision of each community. Q: Is fire protection in RDN at safe levels? A: In speaking with a fire department official, I was advised that fire protection in Area F is at safe levels. In Area F our fire services are exemplary and the response time is exceptional.
LEANNE SALTER
Q: What is your input on the regional growth review? A: Having read the document, I do not see a distinct plan that would speak to the unique environment present in each regional district. I believe that a regional growth strategy must include a community dialogue and reflect the values and
Q: What is your input to meet our area’s increasing health care demands? A: We need a real emergent health care facility in the local district. I am currently in the process of completing preliminary work and research on the viability of developing the original community vision of a real emergent health care hospital for this area.
Lance Pope - Area G
A: The key to water stewardship in our region is education and communication, with accessible, easy to understand information. Our wells aren’t closed, self-contained systems: what we do on our property affects other people. Q: What is your input on the regional growth review?
NANAIMO
Editor’s Note: To fit all candidates into these pages, some questions have been eliminated, others have been edited for brevity.
Richard De Candole - Area F
Q: What is your input on the regional growth review?
OF
Q: What is your input to meet our area’s increasing health care demands?
A: The matter is being handled more emotionally and politically than rationally. Nanaimo is adequate but very inconvenient. Time dependent emergency care is a problem due to remoteness. It is a trade-off. Twenty four hour emergency care locally will be very expensive.
Q: What is your opinion on the issue of watershed protection?
Q: Is fire protection in RDN at safe levels?
A: I support programs like Action for Water, a program set up to understand and to protect water. I support the Drinking Water and Watershed Protection Plan and the watersmart rebates for water efficient toilets and solar hot water tank installations.
A: After speaking to the Parksville Fire Department, the Qualicum Beach Fire Department, the Errington Fire Department, the Nanoose Fire Department, the Dashwood and Meadowood Fire Departments all departments said that fire protection in RDN is at safe levels. LANCE POPE Q: What is your input on However, they are only safe the regional growth review? providing they have volunteer firefighters to serve the community. A: Upon first glance of reading the document it sounds great. Sustainable Q: What is your input to meet our area’s increasing health care demands? future, environmental protection, watershed protection, reducing green house A: In short, we are in desperate need gasses, and more. Who would disagree of better care in our area. We need Aswith this? But when you look past the sisted Living Care and Palliative Care conservation adjectives that we have all known to love and trust it starts to sound and every resident I have spoken with a little more intrusive to our local demowould feel safer if there was a hospital cratic system. with an 24-hour emergency center.
Duane Round - Area G Q: What is your opinion on the issue of watershed protection?
Q: Is fire protection in RDN at safe levels?
A: Water is crucial, must be protected, not just in the watersheds but all the way to our taps and at a cost that we can afford.
A: Areas that have only one road, inadequate water pressure and proximity to large forested lands are a concern.
Q: What is your input on the regional growth review?
Q: What is your input to meet our area’s increasing health care demands?
A: Though I support DUANE ROUND A: I would like to see the the current RGS, it has not addressed all the concerns proposed health care center have at least six, staffed acute care beds raised in an RDN report of 2004 that said our society is well below the provincial to handle noninvasive surgical procedures and other emergencies. average in all areas of sustainability.