1- What is the most important issue facing the Township, and how would you propose to deal with it?
I think the most important issue facing the Township is development in general around the Township. If elected, I believe that council must immediately look at the Willoughby area and see if there is anything we can do to slow down the growth of the community to allow some infrastructure to catch up and address some of the needs of the current residents. When elected I would propose to council that for every new OCP that is to be developed, council appoint a committee made up of residents, business owners, property owners, staff, council and school board to work collaboratively with the planners throughout the entire process. Sustainable, balanced development is what we need which recognizes and maintains the importance of our agricultural and rural roots.
2 - Should there be restrictions on development in Willoughby until the situation regarding funding for new schools has been resolved?
Yes, I do believe that there should be restrictions on new development in Willoughby at this time. I believe council and the school district have both been advocating for approval of new schools but it needs to be understood that the provincial government is the one that releases funds for new schools.
3 - Do you support a pool and recreation centre complex in Aldergrove, and if so, when should construction begin? If not, why not?
Absolutely I support the pool and recreation complex for Aldergrove. Once elected, the council will work on the budget and I would support this as one project that I would like to see started ASAP.
4- What type of development, if any, should be encouraged in a new community plan for Brookswood and Fernridge?
Balanced, sustainable development should be the goal of any new Official Community Plan! I strongly believe in the Sustainability Charter that council adopted on June 23, 2008 and council should use this to guide future official community plans. I believe council should embrace the vision of the Sustainability Charter which is as follows, “The sustainability vision is to build a legacy for future generations by leading and committing the community to a lifestyle that is socially, culturally, economically, and environmentally balanced.”
For your information here is a link to the Sustainability Charter http://www.tol.ca/About-the-Township/Municipal-Government/Significant-Plans-and-Reports/Sustainability-Charter