Robert Campbell 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.
I am a 27 year resident of Delta. I have been with my wife for over 37 years and we raised and lived with two generations for over two decades in our Beach Grove home. I am seeking re-election to Delta council because I have a continuing passion for all of Delta. I believe I am an effective voice of reason on council and in an election where change will occur reason will be needed on council.
2. Most pressing issue – What issue are you most passionate about and what action will you take on it?
I am most passionate about providing Quality recreation opportunities for people of all ages and all abilities. While Delta has done a good job of providing capital upgrades to fields and facilities there is much more that must be done. The financial focus in the past decade has been on emergency services, now is the time to focus on parks, recreation and culture. There is an immediate need to fund over 50 million in capital priorities required to provide new and upgraded facilities. It is my priority when re-elected to address this funding shortfall at the council table.
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?
The best way to protect existing neighbourhoods is to control future density. Density must happen in appropriate areas that will have access to Translink and shopping. Delta must also be more flexible with the types of freehold and strata housing allowed. There should also be some types of incentives to create a more vibrant rental stock. Team Delta has a plan to bring housing experts and advocates together to seek viable options for more affordable housing.
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 am certainly concerned over the cultivation of cannabis on agricultural land. Cannabis can be cultivated indoors and should not take up Delta's limited agricultural lands. The retail sale of cannabis will be legal and Delta needs to find a way to temper that reality while being aware of where schools and daycares are located. A process similar to what existing liquor stores go through in Delta is what is needed.
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?
Absolutely! A bridge is the only real option for a new crossing. A bridge is safer and will move more people and should contain the option for rapid transit in the future.
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 will support Delta police and the casino operator with any recommendations they have to minimize the impact to the community. Team Delta has committed to spending a small portion of casino money on attracting doctors to Delta. Delta has a dire shortage of doctors compared to other Lower Mainland cities. The real bulk of any potential revenue should be decided by a future council. However I know of some parks and rec project that need funding!
