1. What triggered you to make this step and run for municipal office?
I decided to run for both council and islands trust - two roles with very different responsibilities and impacts on the community.
I seek a seat on council for two reasons. First, I see a lack of representation on council for families, commuters and younger people. And second, I see a lack of professionalism and courtesy in how council deals with the public, and with each other. We can do much better on Bowen Island. We have an amazing group of people here who can contribute a great deal to our collective success, but only if council demonstrates inclusiveness and professionalism in its discourse. We must lead by example.
My interest in Islands Trust goes back to 2004, when my husband and I spent the summer on Galiano Island. The Gulf Islands have a unique and precious natural character that must be preserved. Yet, total resistance to change is just as problematic as grandiose development. I appreciate how Islands Trust works to strike a balance that preserves the character of the islands by guiding economic development, and I want to be part of this important and ongoing work.
2. What common ground do you share with the other candidates running in this election?
One theme that has clearly emerged through this election is that of respectful dialogue and a more inclusive public process. We also need that inclusive, respectful public process to be efficient, such that it will allow us to move forward and take action. I also share our drive to carry forward key community amenities such as diversity of housing, our community/arts centre, and Snug Cove house. Our on-island and off-island transportation issues literally connect us all, and I’m grateful for the work already done in this area for the next council to continue. Most of all we share our love of Bowen; our colourful community, and the beautiful setting of beaches and forests are all worth working together for.
3. What are your top three priorities for Bowen?
First, let’s establish a respectful and inclusive discourse between council, staff and islanders. An atmosphere where everyone is respected will provide an environment that encourages efficient participation and greater buy-in from the public. Secondly, let’s put a focus on transportation. We need to start evaluating alternatives for getting on and off the island. And finally, let’s move forward with Lot 2 zoning. With the right backdrop of inclusiveness and respectful discourse, we can get Lot 2 zoned in a manner that a majority of islanders will get behind.
4. Tell me about the community work you have done that you are most proud of?
I value engaging with and contributing to our incredible, diverse community. I look forward to many more years of sharing funny moments with the women and neighbours at the Knick Knack Nook, co-creating projects with the Community School Association (BICS), and volunteering at my children’s school. Before coming to Bowen, I was involved with my children’s schools and preschools, where we had to step up to the challenges of decreased funding and increased costs, and together we managed to surpass fundraising and community awareness goals. Before having children, I contributed to a variety of boards at my university. Volunteering is deeply rewarding and well worth the hard work of making a plan, setting goals and sticking to the implementation.
5. How will you work to make council open to the concerns and ideas of all Bowen Islanders?
I will have weekly office time, so that people can find me to share their concerns and views. Council should meet in the evening so that families and commuters can attend. I will also encourage council to hold community workshops to make sure we are sharing information and ideas early in the process. And good communication would be supported by accessible information on the website and sensible use of social media such as Facebook. Lastly, it is clear that council would benefit from setting out clear boundaries for acceptable behavior in council interactions.
6. What do you love most about living on Bowen Island?
I appreciate the ‘Bowen-moments’ that reflect our simple sense of community: the incredible courtesy people show to each other; the generosity and kindness - you just don’t see that in the city. The constant backdrop of natural beauty, quiet, and biodiversity affirm that this is the place I love to live.
