The mayoral and city council candidates were asked to reply to four questions that we hope will give voters a better idea on where they stand on some of the most challenging issues of the day.
1. The current city council voted 5-4 to keep Pine Valley. If this matter were to come before council again, how would you vote and why?
1. I would vote to keep Pine Valley, look after our parks and preserve green spaces. I keep my RV at home and oppose this City closing the sani-dump. I would back the Performing Arts if partnering with the feds and province. 2.5 million dollars to renovate our library, would be money well spent. This City's biggest expense is Police and Fire Protection, no one wants less including me. I hear Businesses have long waits for inspections, a start up business may not afford any procrastination; that has to be improved.
2. City council voted 8-1 in favour of the Northern Recovery Centre for Women in the former Haldi Road elementary school. How would you have voted and why? (Incumbents: how did you vote and why?)
2. Northern Recovery Centre for Women is a great idea, but the residents in Haldi Road Community are against it. I would represent those people too, so would vote against; but in an approved location I would vote for it. Areas where it might fit, maybe BCRail Industrial Site or up from the Railway Museum on the vacated Island Cashe. There has to be places that are not in a residential neighbour. I bring the common sense voice of the common people, would like full disclosure of City business. I favor televising the meetings, showing the public.
3. The current city council gave its bargaining committee a target of a net-zero increase to negotiate a new collective agreement with city workers, leading to the first-ever labour disruption by municipal staff. What will be your recommendation when the current collective agreements for city workers expire in 2016 and why?
3. I would be the first to offer wage increases at the Cost of Living. I say hold the line on taxes, that $1000 a year Utility bill is a tax too, up 33% between 2008 and 2011, now more than doubled since 2008, that's in six years. I oppose a new tax scam, called Storm Utility Charge. After the election you want me to hold the line on taxes. Wild increases on user fees, parking and taxes, need to be held down to, or near the Cost of Living.
4. Why should residents vote in the Nov. 15 municipal election?
4. Residents should vote, and for me on Nov 15th because I ask them to vote for me and ask others to vote for me too. I just don't agree with all others Candidates. I am different. I worked years as a Union man, most people I've met, worker or management are proud of the job they do. I volunteer some; one of many that make the Red Shirt Marathon-Walk of Honour happen for the Legion. Also try hard to make the new Doubles Curling work for the Curling Club and will drive some for the Winter Games. I CARE.
