After raising our family in the Lower Mainland, my wife and I chose to move to more tranquil surroundings, and have fallen in love with the Alberni Valley.
I am concerned when I hear people in political positions tell their constituents that they are “making the tough decisions on their behalf.” It seems that means they will make decisions on the well-being of the people who have funded their campaigns regardless of public opinion.
I believe that the responsibility of anyone involved in elected government is to present a group of viable options to the public and let the majority choose, regardless of previous sponsorship.
I want to represent all constituents, not a special interest group. Although you can’t please everyone all the time, I would like the opportunity to represent the majority on all issues—not to make decisions for you, but to put your voice in a vote on council.
I would do this by holding open hours at regular times so you can express your opinion on current issues. I would promote town hall meetings, and listen to and take tally of the opinions given by all of you.
Personally, I am against the proposed coal port. However, if the majority of opinion received by me were in support of it, then I would be forced to work in favour of it. That is how I believe democracy works: a decision made by the people, for the people.
If you vote for me, you are voting for a voice on council and true representation.