Do you support the facility proposed for 222 Corfield? Why or why not?
Due to this matter being before the courts, I’m not going to get into too much detail at this time.
However, it is council’s role to listen and respond to our community and that’s what I plan to do. Mayor and council must be cautious in making decisions that have no contingency plan. We must be cognizant of which risks are appropriate and which risks we cannot accept. 222 Corfield is proposed to include drug addictions and high-risk behaviours onsite, along with a transient shelter. This facility is not compatible with children.
Over 80% of respondents have voiced opposition, yet council moved forward without solving community concerns. If we cannot agree on where supportive housing should be built, can we at least agree on where it should not go. What location could be worse for our community to build supportive housing and a shelter? Is there one?
How will you balance the needs of seniors and those of younger residents?
I would like to continue to see developments that bring generations together, including child care in senior housing. Ideas like diverse co-op housing for all ages of families, single parents, and seniors, or a community pool for example, are great ways for all ages to connect.
Connecting students in need of accommodation with seniors living alone, helps resolve our housing crisis while building respectful relationships, providing companionship, and connecting generations in purposeful ways. These values are the glue of a vibrant community. While I trained as a commercial pilot in 2005, I had experienced this, as I was a roommate to a 68-year-old lady; this provided security for her, and someone with life experience for me to learn from. It worked great!
When our community embraces projects where young and old can share the same space in meaningful ways, it harbours respect and builds strong connections.
What sets you apart from the other candidates?
To best meet the needs of our community, council should be comprised of a diverse group of individuals that represent all age groups and families. Being an educated husband and father in his mid-thirties, I have the energy and dedication needed for council.
I am known for being an active listener, critical thinker, and one who takes action to deliver solutions. I listen more then I speak and I do more then I’m asked. I continue to exceed expectations by taking challenges head on and I succeed by lifting the people around me.
As an active volunteer in our community for over a decade, serving five years with the Parksville Fire Department, and founder of www.FitnessInMind.ca, I have proven to be trustworthy, hard working, and courageous.
My commitment to serving Parksville and our residents is why I ask for your support to be a representative on council.