Today Media Candidate Questionnaire

#1 The three biggest issues over the next 3 years: Ensuring we have a good water supply, Ensuring we have the lowest possible taxes for home owners and businesses. Ensuring we have a civic government who is Open and honest with the public.

#2 What would I change about the way council operates: I would like to see less in camera (back room) decisions, made by and for special intrest groups and not nessicarily the public. I would also like to see a more responsive and responsible group on council.

#3 What should Council’s priorities be: Priorities should center around serving the electorate that put them there, sustainable planning, and economical operations of the city.

#4 Can council do a better job of including the public in the decision making process?: Why yes with more public consultation perhaps City hall would not be so out of touch with what the common folk are willing to put up with. All public meetings should include a short question period for the public, (currently they do not.)

#5 How much higher can/should taxes be raised?: I believe we have passed the threshold of what many young families can afford, I would have an eye to belt tightening at city hall, starting with redundant senior staff, I would very much like to see evaluations on all exempt positions.

#6 Should businesses have a vote? : Yes if they are paying for licenses and taxes why not?

#7 What are three things you most want to accomplish if elected?:
A.) Upgraded water system at Norish, more reservoir capacity and better effort on conservation to buy enough time to get back to the table with our water partner (Mission) and the developers of GENSTAR who need Stave lake water.
B.) Better viable transit and trucking routes, with park and ride and truck parking expanded near the freeway.
C.) more promotion of after school programs, minor sports for our youth and “Step up style” help for transitional people to get back into society.

8.) What are my main strengths?:
I am an articulate caring person who has been watching city hall for many years, and I want to try and stop the pro-development council from any further destruction so there is something left for future generations.

9.) Why should voters vote for me?: Voters should vote for me because I will stand up for their rights and I will not give them a bunch of political pontification and I will not lie to them.

Today Media Candidate Questionnaire

1.What are the three biggest issues facing our community over the next three years?
a.Fiscal management: We have worked hard to keep taxes low without harming the integrity of our services and it will take experience to maintain our strong track record.
b.Communication and consultation: In these changing times, people want to be more engaged. That’s a very good thing. We need input from our citizens as we make decisions about major issues such as water, policing, transit, and community amenities. I want us to use exceptional practices as we seek that input. It’s clear to me that public expectations have evolved and I want to meet that need.
c.Public Water: This is, without a doubt, the biggest financial issue coming our way and it will be very tough navigating through the process, especially with Abbotsford going in their own unique direction. We cannot afford to sacrifice the relationship we have with Abbotsford, but we won’t compromise our community’s values either.

2.What would you change about the way Council operates?
I’m glad people have been talking more about participating in community consultation processes. I support the work the current council has begun to improve interaction with the community. We’ve asked each department to improve our ability to gather input from the community and to keep the public informed about the resources and programs available to them.

3.What should Council’s priorities be?
a.Economic Development: I think our Economic Development committee and officer have been effective in driving our local economy forward. This helps create jobs and educational opportunities; reduces the burden on residential taxpayers; and gives us all more local shopping options. I think we need to consider expanding this resource because it is a very wise investment in our community.
b.Every council needs a strategic approach if they are to accomplish the community’s goals. It troubles me that other candidates haven’t really addressed any issue other than taxes because I have always seen planning as a way to avoid being in “crisis mode.” I’ll begin this term as I have the last two, by asking all on council to work as a team to develop a forward-looking plan that balances all the things I’ve heard during these last few months, including our budget, waterfront and downtown, environment and social concerns.

4.Can Council do a better job of including the public in the decision-making process?
a.Of course! Every elected body should be continuously looking to improve their ability to communicate and collaborate. We have so many more tools available than ever before, including technology, so we need to stay up-to-speed in terms of how to use all of our resources to reach you. We’ve piloted a communications program to dramatically enhance this area.

5.How much higher can/should property taxes be raised?
a.Our job as a council is to keep taxes as low as possible without gutting services and infrastructure. It takes a careful, consultative and researched approach to ensure we maintain that balance. It would be reckless of me to suggest a random number as a tax rate, but I am very optimistic that we can keep taxes very low because of our tremendous commercial and industrial growth.

6.Should businesses have a vote? 

a.Yes. They contribute to our communities and utilize resources. It’s a little harder to provide accountability for businesses than it is for property owners, but it’s doable.

7.What are the three things you most want to accomplish if elected?
a.Improve Mission’s economic position and diversify our tax base. This includes creating workable plans for our forest, waterfront and downtown that will drive business and improve the area.
b.Complete our new healthcare complex. We have been given $50 million to invest in a new innovative healthcare centre and a bigger and better seniors campus of care. Making sure those projects achieve their potential means experience and continuity in leadership. I want to finish what we’ve begun!
c.Address our water needs within a public model and with the lowest possible cost to Mission residents.

8.What are your main strengths?
a.Experience: I have 12 years on council and am ready to continue my work without missing a beat. I’ve developed the skills, knowledge and relationships to get the job done for our residents and there will be no interruption on the work with me at the helm.
b.Vision: I’ve been shocked by how little vision others have expressed in this campaign. It’s not enough to say what you don’t like; you have to move the community forward. My vision of Mission is an inclusive community where people can live, work, recreate and raise a family. This will be accomplished by bringing business and education to Mission; respecting our environment through innovative practices; improving our healthcare amenities; realizing the potential of the waterfront, downtown and our forest; and keeping costs low.
c.Integrity: Over the years, I have probably met most of you face-to-face. I believe that folks can tell I bring a principled approach to the job. I’m honest, very approachable and genuinely concerned about my community.
d.Passion: I’m passionate about Mission and it shows in all I do. That passion is what compels others – from senior governments to businesses – to invest in Mission.

9.Why should voters vote for you?
a.Everywhere one looks, it’s obvious that Mission is making great strides. From our beautiful wetlands and parks to our growing industrial community; our new UFV program to our improved highways; our growing commercial landscape to our improved policing and fire services, Mission has done better in my time as Mayor.
b.For me, the biggest qualification for public office is one’s character. I’m concerned that so many candidates have done so little to prepare, and yet they confidently tell the public that they can cut programs. Leadership takes responsibility. One has to make researched and considered decisions, even if they aren’t always well understood or appreciated at the time. I’ve always been willing to do what was needed, even when the right decision was a tough one. I’m running to serve you and only you.

10.Anything else you would like to add?
a.There has been a concerted effort to spread misinformation in this campaign season. You deserve better. Learn the facts and find out more about my vision at www.jamesatebe.com

1. What are the three biggest issues facing our community over the next three years?

1. Getting the City’s spending and finances under control – in order to get property taxes, fees and water rates to stop skyrocketing.

2. Dealing with the heamorrhaging of cash that is the Heat subsidy and the operating costs/losses of the ASEC.

3. Getting the actual facts about the state of Abbotsford’s water supply and starting an open and fact based discussion on what course of action is needed.

2. What would you change about the way Council operates?

Council needs to come out from behind closed doors to provide transparency. Proper budgeting and accurate recording of the city’s expenditures; financial discipline; mayor, council and staff are there to meet the needs of citizens – not their own needs and egos. I intend to blog about what is going on so people can easily find out what is going on – and provide feedback. Listening to what citizens are saying. Stop avoiding social issues [affordable housing, poverty, the growing number of hungry (including the growing number of seniors), homelessness etc] and provide leadership (not money) to get senior levels of government to act on their responsibilities and for the community to come together to address these issues.

3. What should Council’s priorities be?

Getting spending under control. Getting the facts on the true state of the water supply and having a community discussion about options and the course of action to take. Review of staffing needs of the City. Attracting employers and jobs that pay liveable wages (industries, offices). Leadership (not $$$$) on housing/social issues.

4. Can Council do a better job of including the public in the decision-making process.

Much better. I will be blogging and writing about what is going on, the issues, the tough choices that need to be made. Council could listen with open ears and mind to what citizens are saying.

5. How much higher can/should property taxes be raised?

Council should be looking at zero percent raises. That may prove not to be possible but – if you don’t attempt to hit zero percent, you will never achieve zero. Aiming at zero instead of starting with the rate of inflation as one incumbent stated you have to, will result in lower taxes.

6. Should businesses have a vote?

NO. Businesses already have a vote(s) from owner and employees.

7. What are the three things you most want to accomplish if elected?

1. Change.

2. Finding out what is the actual state of the City’s finances.

3. Establishing fiscal discipline, solid, accurate budgeting, cleaning up bad financial practices and inaccuracy.

4. Establish transparency.

5. Provide leadership on housing and social needs.

I know that is 5 but 2, 3, and 4 are interrelated – different facets of the same issue.

8. What are your main strengths?

Integrity. Solid financial background from 25 years as a Chartered Accountant. Unique (for a member of city council) life experience. Informed and involved in the city’s business (as much as you can be given how much is done behind closed doors). I use the city’s facilities. Involved in the community through volunteering and advocacy. Listening – and hearing. Intensely curious. Intelligent and thoughtful. I Care. A sense of humour that allows me not to take myself too seriously and to be able to laugh at myself.

9. Why should voters vote for you?

I mean what I say. Integrity is a high priority. Council needs to have a variety of backgrounds and experiences. I personally use city facilities and am engaged (out and about) in the community. People who have something they want to say or need to discuss have proven quite able to find and talk to me in public (they do me the courtesy of not disturbing my lenght swimming – which is much appreciated).

When I say I will do something people who know me know it will be done (admittedly they know to make sure I write it down so I forget) and that whatever it is it will be done exceedingly well.

I cannot not write about what is going on – the issues, my thoughts, questions I have etc. A good idea is a good idea – I know the more minds thinking about something the better the chances of coming up with good, innovative ideas and solutions.

Experience (and 25 years as a Chartered Accountant) has given me solid abilities in finance, management, budgeting, planning etc.

Life experience has given me maturity, with the harsh life experiences making a better human being . Life has tempered me as steel is tempered.

10. Anything else you would like to add?

I didn’t sign any of the pledges offered. Because:

First – I would not sign any pledge to favour one group of taxpayers (businesses) over another (individual taxpayers).

Second – I will not sign any pledge I am not sure I can keep. Ask me to strive for a 0% tax increase and I will; ask me to commit to a certain percentage before I know the actual state of Abbotsford’s financial affairs and I cannot do that. Although I can and do commit to state and explain why I feel that the final number is needed.

Get out and vote; encourage friends and family to get out and vote.

Do the homework needed to understand why the P3 is a bad choice and the very negative consequences – especially financial – it will have on Abbotsford and its future. Then get out and vote NO to the P3 and urge others to get out and vote NO to the P3.

Today Media Candidate Questionnaire

1.What are the three biggest issues facing our community over the next three years?
We need to have a Core Service review to find out how to fix the over spending that has taken place so that the District Of Mission can regain control and move our community into a place of financial sustainability.
We need to open the door for businesses so that we can create sustainable jobs for our citizens so the tax burden can more evenly be shared between residents and business. Currently Mission residents pay the highest taxes east of the Pitt River and east of Surrey.
We need to look for ways to decrease our bureaucracy so that we have more funding for the Arts, Community Programs and other Community Services that fall under the Municipalities mandate.

2. What would you change about the way Council operates?
I would end the culture of secrecy and commit to open meetings and total transparency in all areas of Council and Mayoral conduct.

3. What should Council’s priorities be?
The first priority of a CRMG Council is to conduct a full and complete Core Service Review.

4. Can Council do a better job of including the public in the decision-making process?
Yes. Council can be more transparent, open and respectful to those who disagree with them while also providing more opportunity for public input.

5. How much higher can/should property taxes be raised?
The current tax increases are not sustainable. There needs to be cuts to wasteful spending. Municipal governments need to operate within the Municipal Act rather than taking on projects that are not in their mandate. Mission has over spent using money from tax payer’s reserves and the current Mayor and Council have not been disciplined in paying this money back.

6. Should businesses have a vote?
Businesses owners who own property currently have a vote. The ability for businesses owners who don’t own land to vote should be explored.

7. What are the three things you most want to accomplish if elected?
See Q1

8. What are your main strengths?
I am a visionary leader that is able to problem solve and bring opposing parties to consensus. I have spent almost thirty years planning budgets and ensuring that organisations live within their budgets while not neglecting the priorities they need to address. I am used to working in highly regulated environments and will bring this expertise to the Council if elected.

9. Why should voters vote for you?
Voters should vote for Dave Hensman because Mission needs a total change from the Mayor right through to Council. The CRMG team is the only group that has clearly stood for change. Most of the independents are linked with the current Mayor and support his re-election. If Mission is going to move forward it has to be with a new Team. We believe along with a growing number of Mission residents that Ted Adlem, Dave Hensman and the CRMG team is the answer for Mission at this time.

10. Anything else you would like to add?
Ted Adlem, Dave Hensman and the CRMG Team is Mission’s Best Way Forward for 2011 and beyond.

]]> http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/municipal-politics-dave-hensman-responds-to-today-candidate-questionnaire/feed/ 0 http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/municipal-politics-heather-stewart-responds-to-today-candidate-questionnaire/ http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/municipal-politics-heather-stewart-responds-to-today-candidate-questionnaire/#comments Fri, 11 Nov 2011 07:27:56 +0000 Editor http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/?p=69391 Candidates for mayor, council and school board trustee in both Abbotsford and Mission are invited to answer the Today Media Candidate Questionnaire. Heather Stewart’s responses follow.

Today Media Candidate Questionnaire

1. What are the three biggest issues facing our community over the next three years?
a. Making sure the other levels of government are paying their share infrastructure and programming.
b. Moving into implementation of a Downtown/Waterfront Plan.
c. Increasing commercial and industrial development without losing balance with environmental, cultural and social elements of sustainable community development.

2. What would you change about the way Council operates?
a. I would like to see a continuation of new communication strategies that get information out about new initiatives and Council decisions in a timely fashion to the entire community.

3. What should Council priorities be?
a. Council should i. listen well (which involves getting out into the community on a regular basis); ii. be truthful in its communications; and iii. be fair in its decisions.

4. Can Council do a better job of including the public in the decision-making process?
In Mission, I believe we are doing a good job in decision-making processes, but I would be open to other suggestions.

5. How much higher can/should property taxes be raised?
In these times, not much higher. This is why we need more assistance from other government levels and we need to secure more commercial and industrial development.

6. Should businesses have a vote?
Under certain conditions, I could see advantages, but I would like to hear input from all the community before a decision is made.

7. What are the three things you most want to accomplish if elected?
Along with other members of Council, I would like to a. move ahead with Downtown/Waterfront development; b. facilitate additional opportunities for job training in Mission that is related to new and current industry; c. make sure that appropriate health and recreation services, especially for seniors, are delivered in Mission.

8. What are your main strengths?
I have six years Council experience and extensive volunteer participation so that I have a good sense of community needs. I also have energy, ethics and enthusiasm for the job.

9. Why should voters vote for you?
In addition to my other strengths, I am a hard worker, well educated and am recognized for speaking the truth and seeking fairness in my decisions.

10. Anything else you would like to add?
Please get out and vote!

]]> http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/municipal-politics-heather-stewart-responds-to-today-candidate-questionnaire/feed/ 0 http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/municipal-politics-jenny-stevens-responds-to-today-candidate-questionnaire/ http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/municipal-politics-jenny-stevens-responds-to-today-candidate-questionnaire/#comments Fri, 11 Nov 2011 07:13:30 +0000 Editor http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/?p=69377 Candidates for mayor, council and school board trustee in both Abbotsford and Mission are invited to answer the Today Media Candidate Questionnaire. Mission incumbent Jenny Stevens’ responses follow.

Today Media Candidate Questionnaire

1. What are the three biggest issues facing our community over the next three years?
Financial stability;

Open versus closed door government;

Practical, achievable, community driven planning.

2. What would you change about the way Council operates?

PSIT implementation;

communication practices; spending choices;

Establish a downtown City Hall satellite.

3. What should Council’s priorities be?

A comprehensive core review to: eliminate waste, optimize service delivery efficiency; identify alternative revenue sources;

broaden the tax base by thinking outside the box to identify innovative projects and approaches to attract industrial/commercial investment;

Restore community trust in Municipal government.

4. Can Council/School Board do a better job of including the public in the decision-making

process?

Yes.

Limit closed items to only those which publically discussed, could harm the city or an individual;

publish closed decisions ASAP;

use media opportunities interactively;

hold quarterly City Hall forums;

respond promptly and responsively to citizens’ comments;

Expand Council’s knowledge base by consulting citizens with valuable technical skills and experience.

5. How much higher can/should property taxes be raised?

Zero is an impossible goal. Staying inside inflation is, given time, possible.

6. Should businesses have a vote?

Local business owner/operators without residential status, yes; large Corporations, no.

7. What are the three things you most want to accomplish if elected?

Fair treatment and equal respect for every citizen;

Financial plans which achieve community goals without inflicting unsupportable taxes;

A development approach which is Practical, achievable, and Environmentally responsible.

8. What are your main strengths?

Experience, receptiveness, dedication, determination, morel code.

9. Why should voters vote for you?

My proven motivation and ability.

10. Anything else you would like to add?

Help me to do better by sharing your thoughts with me – 604-820-2049; jennystevens@shaw.ca

]]> http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/municipal-politics-jenny-stevens-responds-to-today-candidate-questionnaire/feed/ 0 http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/municipal-politics-travis-daleman-responds-to-today-candidate-questionnaire/ http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/municipal-politics-travis-daleman-responds-to-today-candidate-questionnaire/#comments Fri, 11 Nov 2011 06:31:01 +0000 Editor http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/?p=69488 Candidates for mayor, council and school board trustee in both Abbotsford and Mission are invited to answer the Today Media Candidate Questionnaire. Travis Daleman’s responses follow.

Today Media Candidate Questionnaire

1. What are the three biggest issues facing our community over the next three years?
The three biggest issues currently facing our community are: the proposed P3 project, Municipal taxpayer waste, and transportation.

2. What would you change about the way Council/School Board operates?

Having attended these public council meetings for over a year, I can say that they are nothing more than bad live theatre. Council appears to have good transparency to the public but still they choose to make important decisions, like leaving the FVRD, without public knowledge; this needs to change. As Mayor I would ensure that Monday night council meetings had a “questions and answers” portion; this more interactive format would invite more public involvement.

3. What should Council’s priorities be?

Elected officials are public servants, so by definition should they not be serving the public who elected them? In my opinion, the first priority for the mayor and council is to represent the public in the decisions they make.

4. Can Council do a better job of including the public in the decision-making process?

The current council does not involve the public in their decision making process, so of course it can be improved even if it is as simple as having questions and answers sessions or old-fashioned town hall meetings.

5. How much higher can/should property taxes be raised?

Considering that property taxes have increased annually for the past 3 years, I can not personally justify further increases to Abbotsford taxpayers.

6. Should businesses have a vote?

As simple as this question appears, it is quite complicated to address effectively. Considering that businesses are also taxpayers, their needs and interests have to be considered by council, regardless if they are voting members of society.
7. What are the three things you most want to accomplish if elected?

1) to retro fit existing properties with rain catchment systems, and make it a requirement for new development. This would benefit both water supplies and flood control.
2) I want Abbotsford to be the pride of BC for its innovations in transportation culture (infrastructure, rapid rail, community bikes, transit), eco-innovations, community solidarity/diversity, family friendly, and to be one of the most desirable locations to live in Canada.
3)I would also like to see more businesses establish themselves in Abbotsford, and by businesses I do not mean more fast food restaurants or retail stores but rather REAL companies that will take advantage of our highly skilled/ educated labour pool.

8. What are your main strengths?

I am able to take the lead on any situation, and without using fear or strong arm tactics, I am able to get groups of people to work co-operatively towards a common goal. I am gregarious and have a genuine interest in people and their challenges.
Some people may dismiss me because of my age where in fact it is an advantage to the community that I have no personal embitterments or agendas. Further to this, I have not been wooed by any special interest groups or corporations; I am what I – a voice for the people of Abbotsford.

9. Why should voters vote for you?

Voters should choose me because I am the next generation of leadership. New thinking. Different problem solving skills. New ideas. I am what politics should be: open, honest, fair, and respectable. I do not hold membership in the “Old Man’s Club” that has dominated Abbotsford politics for the past 40 years. If Abbotsford voters are truly looking for a change, they should vote for Travis J. Daleman on November 19th.
10. Anything else you would like to add?

I am a graduate of Abbotsford’s WJ Mouat Secondary School and am currently attending the University of the Fraser Valley. I am also a member of the Royal Canadian Sea Cadets (CPO2) and am in my seventh year of service with the organization. I am an LTS sailing instructor certified by the Canadian Yatching Association and I enjoy teaching classes regularly on Canadian Naval history, Seamanship and all aspects of sailing. I am a volunteer sailing instructor at both Jericho and Esquimalt and for the past three summers I have worked at Quadra as a sailing instructor (2009 & 2010) and a physical education & recreation instructor (2011) for youth. I have received the honour of several awards including Best Sailor & Best Instructor. I have competed in numerous sailing regattas regionally, provincially & nationally. I also hold several other certifications including my Power Squadron, Marine Radio Operator & advanced First Aid training among others.

And remember to vote NO to P3…!

]]> http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/municipal-politics-travis-daleman-responds-to-today-candidate-questionnaire/feed/ 0 http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/municipal-politics-jeff-jewell-responds-to-today-candidate-questionnaire/ http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/municipal-politics-jeff-jewell-responds-to-today-candidate-questionnaire/#comments Thu, 10 Nov 2011 09:13:22 +0000 Editor http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/?p=69281 Candidates for mayor, council and school board trustee in both Abbotsford and Mission are invited to answer the Today Media Candidate Questionnaire.

Today Media Candidate Questionnaire

1. What are the three biggest issues facing our community over the next three years?
• tax relief and financial sustainability
• accountability of both elected officials and City Hall
• review all programs and priorities to ensure best service value from every tax dollar

2. What would you change about the way Council operates?
• provide real leadership and control over City Hall
• establish clear rules and practice of accountability
• end the culture of secrecy, minimize ‘in camera’ meetings, and provide open government

3. What should Council’s Board’s priorities be?
• Firstly, suspend hiring and discretionary spending.
• Secondly, conduct Core Service Review to scrutinize all programs and spending, to eliminate waste, and to identify areas for possible budget savings.
• Thirdly, depending on the Abbotsford referendum on P3, study all options and enter into public dialogue prior to any commitments.

4. Can Council do a better job of including the public in the decision-making process?
• Absolutely YES, and a CRMG [Citizens for Responsible Municipal Government] majority council would certainly do so.
• This is particularly essential given the very difficult decisions arising from the Core Service Review, and possibly P3.

5. How much higher can/should property taxes be raised?
• Taxes must be sustainable, so the upper limit of tax increases would be the rate of inflation during this time of deep economic distress.
• CRMG has a goal of zero tax increase, pending the results of the Core Service Review and public consultation.

6. Should businesses have a vote?
• No. Corporations are not persons.
• Businesses have plenty of ways to get the attention and cooperation of elected officials where it is also in the public interest.

7. What are the three things you most want to accomplish if elected?
• See answer to question #1.
• Only a CRMG majority council would be able to fulfill its campaign promises, and be held accountable by voters.

8. What are your main strengths?
• I have 25 years management experience in municipal governments [with the City of Burnaby and Alberta Municipal Affairs].
• I understand the problems and the solutions. I’ve had considerable experience with the constraints of limited budgets and the challenge “to do more with less”.
• I have also worked with two very large corporations [IBM and Telus] and I have owned and operated a small retail business.
• My degree is in Engineering and I’ve had extensive experience in Information Technology, systems analysis and project management.

9. Why should voters vote for you?
• As a pensioner, delivering tax relief is my top priority. I know the value of money and the necessity of living within our means. And I know how to say NO!
• As part of a CRMG leadership team, I believe we can achieve better service from City Hall and better value from current tax rates.
• Only a CRMG majority can make firm promises and be able to deliver on our promises of financial sustainability, tax relief, accountability and open government.

10. Anything else you would like to add?
• Please vote on Nov.19. A low turnout would probably re-elect the incumbents.
• CRMG candidates, if elected, are committed to committed to working cooperatively with all others–independents or incumbents.
• CRMG recognizes that other candidates would probably be the first choice of many voters, but we respectfully ask all voters to consider entrusting their remaining votes to CRMG candidates–if they want to help elect a stronger Council that is committed to tax relief, financial sustainability, accountability and open government. Together we can make a difference!

]]> http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/municipal-politics-jeff-jewell-responds-to-today-candidate-questionnaire/feed/ 0 http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/municipal-politics-jati-sidhu-answers-today-candidate-questionnaire/ http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/municipal-politics-jati-sidhu-answers-today-candidate-questionnaire/#comments Thu, 10 Nov 2011 07:00:32 +0000 Editor http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/?p=69451 Candidates for mayor, council and school board trustee in both Abbotsford and Mission are invited to answer the Today Media Candidate Questionnaire. Jatinder Sidhu’s responses follow.

Today Media Candidate Questionnaire

1. What are the three biggest issues facing our community over the next three years?

Jati Sidhu

Water – P3 challenges, rising property taxes, the need to re-visit our contract with the Sports Center

2. What would you change about the way Council operates?

There is a need for transparency, public discussion and involvement and further engagement of business and social programming.

3. What should Council’s priorities be?

During these economic slowdown, we need to look at cutting costs without compromising quality education and safe learning environments for our students.

4. Can Council do a better job of including the public in the decision-making process?

It can be a challenge to engage in outreach and collaborative decision making, but there are always opportunities to do so. Short term and long-term strategies need to involve all stakeholders to ensure by in and engagement.

5. How much higher can/should property taxes be raised?

Not at all.

6. Should businesses have a vote?

Only if the business owner does not reside in the community.

7. What are the three things you most want to accomplish if elected?

Looking at alternative water sources including community engagement and involvement with this, opportunities for Tradex expansion, and fiscal accountability

8. What are your main strengths?

Successful business experience, Life time community involvement

9. Why should voters vote for you?

I will bring change with experience: new ideas and fresh perspectives based on years of board and volunteer involvement in community issues including the Police Board, City of Character and Board of Governors, UFV.

10. Anything else you would like to add?

Visit my website please at : www.Jatiforcouncil.ca

]]> http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/municipal-politics-jati-sidhu-answers-today-candidate-questionnaire/feed/ 0 http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/municipal-politics-dimanno-responds-to-candidate-questionnaire/ http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/municipal-politics-dimanno-responds-to-candidate-questionnaire/#comments Sat, 05 Nov 2011 19:32:39 +0000 Editor http://www.abbotsfordtoday.ca/?p=67544 Council candidate and president of the Abbotsford Ratepayers Association (ARA) Vince Dimanno has responded to Today Media’s Candidate Questionnaire. His responses follow:

1. What are the three biggest issues facing our community over the next three years?

Vince Dimanno

P3 Stave Lake Water Project and corresponding Water Bills
AESC and the Abbotsford Heat costs
Crime Reduction

2. What would you change about the way Council/School Board operates?

I’d like to say “everything” but realistically, it needs to return to being an inclusive body that works on behalf of the community instead of in its absence.

3. What should Council’s priorities be?

Council needs to return to the basics of governance. It needs to focus on roads, policing, and fire service. It should not be in the professional hockey business, it should not be investing our tax dollars in high risk ventures. It does need to focus on developing our infrastructure, such as the new water source we require, in the most cost efficient way possible.

4. Can Council do a better job of including the public in the decision-making process?

Absolutely! It has a horrible track record of including the public in any way, so inclusion of any kind would be an improvement. Reinstatement of the question and answer period and true public dialogues with Council on key issues instead of public meetings that result in Council unresponsive to public input.
5. How much higher can/should property taxes be raised?

We have to make an effort at a 0% increase. To say it is impossible is simply saying that we are incapable of the attempt. Working families need a break from relentless tax increases and we must show our community it is possible. Perhaps not every year, but in a time where families wages are going down, we need to show them that the City can adjust its budget just like they have had to.

6. Should businesses have a vote?

Yes. They pay a separate Property Tax bill and having a single vote would add value to the disproportionate rate they pay.

7. What are the three things you most want to accomplish if elected?

1. To see the Stave Lake Water Project publicly built and operated without private partners, and to see the District of Mission once again partner with us in the project.

2. To see the end of the subsidy of the Abbotsford Heat, but also to see the AESC start to show some real value to the community. I have many ideas and solutions to accomplish this. Please watch my web site for more information on these issues.

3. Return sanity to our water bills so that we are never in a position where we must turn off the water to a hard working family home because the bills have become so expensive they are unable to pay them.

8. What are your main strengths?

5 years of experience as the President of the Abbotsford Ratepayers Association, more than 15 years of business experience combining to create a proven track record to protect tax dollars through a deep understanding of the city’s business and budget.

9. Why should voters vote for you?

While many incumbents claim to be interested in taxpayers, the fact is that they repeatedly and consistently raised their hands to vote in favour of spending your money whenever they had the chance. Of all candidates, I understand the numbers and the issues and I understand what is at stake.

10. Anything else you would like to add?

It is imperative that voters vote No to the P3 Referendum question. The City of Abbotsford’s own staff confirm that the private lender will cost us 2% more to borrow the money from. Deloitte Touche, engaged by the City, reported that a private operator would cost $1 million more per year than the public option. These two costs are more than $140 million in extra expense over the 30 year contract. Add to that the $100 million Mission won’t be contributing and we are giving up $240 million just so the Federal Gov’t will give us $61 million. Please vote No to the P3 Stave Lake Water Project on November 19th.
Thank you,

Vince Dimanno

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