As a candidate for Area C, I thank the Creston Valley Advance for allowing me to outline my platform and some of the areas of concern that I have for this region. Upon retirement, my wife Pamela and I chose to start a new challenge, that of carving out an off-grid homestead in second growth forest at the south end of Reclamation Road in West Creston. Having lived in Area C for more than six years now, I am offering my candidacy to confront the major concerns in West Creston. With a background in finance and management, as well as having been self-employed in a variety of endeavors, I feel that I am well equipped to be of service in this capacity.
A referendum was passed in 2014 providing for the borrowing of $450,000. To date, that limit has been greatly exceeded, with little accountability provided, and no building in place. I will be demanding that the Inspector of Municipalities conduct a thorough audit of what I consider a debacle and make the results and their recommendations known to the community.
I will create a select committee to study our current situation in the light that locating one fire hall at the current building site does not meet the needs of all residents as to providing insurance discounts to offset tax increases. We would also study the feasibility of providing equipment more suited to the specific needs of the West Creston area.
As a frequent user of the pool at the Rec Center, I am disturbed by the use of chlorine as the prime method of water purification. Almost all folks I have quizzed state that the use of chlorine prevents them from using the pool. I will strongly push to find alternative methods of disinfection such as ozone and bromine. I am sure that this will lead to greatly increased attendance and revenue to offset the costs involved.
The beautiful sandy beaches at the old ferry landing should make it the beach of choice for young families, and a concrete boat launch pad would provide access to miles of scenic river cruising for boaters. Let’s make the area user-friendly and promote what nature has endowed us with to provide enhanced tourism. Further to this, I will work with all stakeholders to create a summer/winter playground for bikers and sledders in the area C outback, well away from residential areas. It is my understanding that such an area could become part of a circuit attracting upwards of a thousand fans, again leading to a business boom for the local hotels and restaurants.
Upon election, I will make it a priority to open lines of communication through Facebook or a website to keep Area C informed of RDCK decisions affecting them. I will look forward to feedback and ideas from our area to make our entire community a vibrant place to call home.