I am a new candidate for Duncan council.
My wife Sheila and I live in Duncan. I grew up on the Island, attended UVIC (Economics degree) and UBC (Commerce and Law degrees).
I retired as a legal counsel for a Crown corporation in 2006. I also previously obtained training/membership as a Chartered Accountant (1972–2003) and as a Certified Management Accountant (1973–2003).
My experience for Duncan council includes 24 years on municipal councils. I served nine years on Central Saanich council (2005–2014), 15 years on Saanich council (1987–2002) and nine years as a regional director on the Capital Regional District board. These years have included membership/chairing of many committees including finance, public works, emergency planning, parks and recreation to name a few.
What issues concern you most and why?
My goal is to work with council and the community to maintain the quality of life we enjoy in Duncan and the region. I believe in a healthy, economically viable community that protects our heritage (rural and agricultural), provides the essential services of police and fire protection, public works, parks, recreation and other community services within a fiscally responsible framework.
It will be of some interest to see how our Duncan residents respond to the questions posed by the City of Duncan on amalgamation and realignment. I would have concerns for costs associated with either of these two initiatives and staff time involvement. I do not support any proposal for amalgamation of the City with the District of North Cowichan.
I enjoy participating in local government, take a pragmatic approach to issues and hope my experience could be useful to the residents of Duncan and the region as a member of Duncan council.