Craig DeCraene is one of the Delta council candidates running in this month's civic election. Here are his responses to a questionnaire from the Optimist:
1. Bio – Tell readers a bit about yourself and why you are running for office.
My name is Craig DeCraene, I live in North Delta for almost three years with my wife and two daughters. Professionally I am a Team Leader/Journeyman Autoglass Installer, been at my job for 11 years.
I am running for Council because I believe a change is needed in the municipal government level. There seems to be a disconnect between council and citizens. I would like to bridge that gap.
2. Most pressing issue – What issue are you most passionate about and what action will you take on it?
I’d have to say that for me, Delta’s most pressing issue would have to be the housing affordability. As housing costs remain to stay high, most people that are trying to get into the market are getting squeezed out of the market due to affordability. Most people leave other communities to purchase their house. The best way to combat this, in my opinion, is to densify where available.
3. Housing – Delta’s housing stock, developed largely in the 1960s and 1970s, is under pressure. What are your plans to ensure there are affordable housing options and what will you do to protect the integrity of existing neighbourhoods?
I support medium to dense residential zones in areas already capable of handling the extra traffic and close to transit. One way to help with affordable housing is to create more housing, densification is key.
4. Marijuana – The legalization of marijuana in Canada has created a number of issues for local government. Do you have concerns over where cannabis could be grown and where it could be sold in Delta?
I don’t think Marijuana should be grown in the ALR. That land should be used for growing food.
I would support a notion of liquor stores, dispensaries, or even Amsterdam style Marijuana shops being able to operate. Bylaws would have to be put in place as to where locations could be, though.
I have heard stories of first-hand accounts of fentanyl laced marijuana and overdose deaths. Selling it in dispensaries where the product is under strict guidelines, is the safest way to distribute.
5. Lobby for bridge/crossing – The City of Delta has been an outspoken advocate for a new Fraser River crossing, specifically the 10-lane bridge approved by the former Liberal government. Would your administration continue to advocate for the bridge or do you support a different approach?
I am in more support of twinning the tunnel as opposed to a new 10 lane bridge. Either way, we need to get rid of the congestion at the Massey Tunnel. Air quality decreases when idling cars are stuck in congestion.
6. Casino – Delta council’s approval of Gateway’s casino proposal was not without controversy. With construction poised to begin soon, what do you plan to do with casino revenues and what measures do you plan to take to ensure a casino isn’t a negative impact on the community?
I would support the use of casino revenues for infrastructure like upgrades to crosswalks, sidewalks, more bike lanes etc. I also would like to see some revenue go towards support groups for gambling addiction and awareness. Policing would get some extra funding to make sure gambling regulations are being followed. Furthermore, climate change is going to affect land sooner rather than part, setting aside money for improvements to the dykes would also have to be considered.
