Re: ‘We all pull together or we pull ourselves apart’ (Letters, PQB News, Sept. 23)
I read with interest the letter from Roy Collver, who cautioned against the continuing polarization of political dialogue in the Qualicum Beach community.
I am in complete agreement with this letter. I think it is incumbent on all of us to think proactively and collaboratively, and to choose wisely among the candidates in the upcoming election.
Here are the questions I would like to see addressed by the candidates:
1. What direct practical technical and/or professional experience have you had in a municipal setting?
2. What direct experience have you had working with municipal service departments?
3. Can you give specific examples of how you resolved complex community issues involving differing points of view?
4. What talents and characteristics do you have that are essential to constructive and collaborative cooperation with all facets of the community?
5. What would you do to promote access to health care in this community?
6. Do you have a pre-committed allegiance to a particular group in the community?
7. What knowledge of and experience with do you have of the complex economic, transportation, and ecological issues facing the Vancouver Island Region?
Ours has traditionally been a conservative community. But the challenges we face - income disparity, access to public services, housing affordability, and economic stability are the same challenges faced everywhere. We cannot stop time or change, or ignore the needs of the younger generation. But we can come together, think creatively, and discover patterns of growth and change that benefit us all.
Andrew Brown
Qualicum Beach