I have decided to run in this election because I believe I can help council move Oliver forward.
We are facing many challenges in the near future, planning and action need to be taken now.
My previous four years experience as a a Councillor means there is no learning curve. I can go to work with Council immediately.
There are several challenges facing Oliver right now. We have finally gotten a hotel. Congratulations to the Councils of the last twenty years who have all worked hard to make this happen. In the process we lost a campground. It would be nice to get back something to replace it. A hotel and a campground both bring positive benefits to our downtown business.
We need to create reasons for locals and tourists alike to stop in our town and visit our businesses. The town has an opportunity to contribute to the development of the empty lots on Main Street. I bring experience to contribute to this effort.
Oliver is also under considerable financial pressure. We can expect a large tax increase to cover upcoming police costs. I think there are some unexplored ideas to help control this tax increase.
While I was on Council I had a reputation for working to keep taxes lower. We also have aging services that continue to need to be replaced or upgraded. This will require innovative thinking and a strong financial background. I believe I bring both of these to Council.
All this being said, I love Oliver. I was born in Oliver in 1957 and have lived here most of my life.
We offer an Okanagan lifestyle that is different from every other town in the valley. We have outstanding recreation facilities and opportunities. We have a huge community of volunteers and service clubs that make us the envy of many places. I believe it is the role of Council to look after what has been built, to help the people of Oliver define our future and assist those that are willing to build that future.
On November 22nd (Advance Poll) and December 2nd (Election Day) – I am asking for your support in keeping and making Oliver a great place to live.