Global Warming
This is the most pressing issue of our time and I vote on all matters in light of this. If we don’t have healthy land, air, and water, we essentially have nothing. I will always vote against the rezoning of agricultural land for other uses (Cable Bay, Rock City Wetlands).
Food Security
Enough good, healthy food to eat is a basic human right. I will support community gardens, food forests, farmer’s markets, local farmers, Loaves and Fishes and anything that makes it easier for residents to grow or raise their own food.
Data Centers
I will always vote against data centers in Nanaimo.
The Urban Tree Canopy
Nanaimo’s urban tree canopy is currently around 39%. I would like to increase this during my time in office by supporting an expansion of the tree voucher program, planting more trees on city property (especially schools) and passing more robust tree removal laws.
Housing for All
Housing is a basic human right. I want to expand the Heart and Hearth programs to offer more shelter beds (and longer-term options), as well as explore the feasability of tiny home communities.
Acccess to Primary Care and Mental Health Services
Access to health care is a basic human right. I want to partner with the provincial government to build more community health centers, as well as support existing health clinics to recruit more doctors and nurse practititioners.
Community Safety
I support the hiring of additional community safety officers to help combat crime, especially in the downtown area.
Responsible Taxation
I hope to keep property tax increases lower than the rate of inflation during my time in office. I will never vote for raises for city employees (including the Mayor/council) above the rate of inflation.
The Economy
Economic growth is important, but it can’t come at the cost of our Earth. I will work together with the Chamber of Commerce and other groups to attract top-quality employers and employees to Nanaimo.
Having worked in the film industry in Vancouver for many years, I know firsthand the number of jobs this industry can create. I will work to attract productions to Nanaimo.