Rhonda Barter, Bill Hutchinson, Jared LeBlanc, Tom Mann and incumbent Ron Toyota are running for Creston mayor in the Nov. 15 municipal election.
What experience do you have that would make an effective mayor?
I have 18 years as a locally elected public official. This includes vice-chair of the Regional District of Central Kootenay, chair of the Central Kootenay Regional Hospital District, and too-numerous-to-list chairmanships of government committees.
What is your top priority for the next town council?
To stop the tax-and-spend philosophy that has run rampant in town hall — a 29 per cent increase in the last three years and a projected 13 per cent further increase in the next three years.
Should the Creston Valley have a single, locally managed form of government?
When I dream, the answer is a resounding yes. When I am awake, the picture changes. We worry about where someone is from rather than the contribution they can make. To be a good deal, it has to be a good deal for all. The tax differential between the town and the rural areas makes it a dream for the town and a nightmare for the rural areas. Until the taxes in the town are reasonable, the idea will only be a dream, which is unfortunate as boundaries are only imaginary lines and all the people of this valley have common goals and expectations.
How many council/committee meetings have you attended in 2014?
Several council meeting, more committee meetings — mainly shared service committee meetings — and numerous conversations and consultations with councillors and staff.
For a profile of Tom Mann, click here.