Join OUR VOICE
Taking back our right to an inclusive democratic process
Our current political paradigm often leaves us feeling isolated from what our representatives choose to do when they head to Victoria. The OUR VOICE initiative would make you an integral part of the political process.
Many issues shape the political landscape in British Columbia as parties compete to address public concerns and propose solutions that balance economic development with social justice and environmental sustainability. As an Independent, I'm interested in gathering YOUR input on these issues currently affecting our community and bringing true participatory democracy to the Legislature. These issues include:
* Housing Crisis and Affordability: BC is facing a significant housing crisis. Affordability has become a major concern for residents, with skyrocketing real estate prices and rents. We need to examine housing supply, especially affordable housing, while looking at alternatives that avoid densification and focus on sustainable land use.
* Health Care and Public Services: BC's healthcare system is strained by staffing shortages, leading to long wait times, especially in rural areas. We need to offer stronger support to healthcare workers, and develop strong and sustainable infrastructure that supports our communities for the long term.
* Climate Change and Environmental Policy: BC has experienced record-breaking wildfires and flooding in recent years. These events have fueled calls for stronger environmental policies, including better forest management and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Controversies around large energy projects such as the Site C dam, LNG projects and pipeline expansions often pit economic development against environmental conservation and Indigenous land rights. Let's lean into these conversations, and recognize the biodiversity of this incredible province, and Indigenous leadership on these issues.
* Economic Growth and Employment: High inflation, particularly in housing, food, and transportation, is a concern for many British Columbians. We need to focus on policies that mitigate the impacts of rising costs, especially for low- and middle- income people and families.
* Political Accountability and Governance: Issues of political transparency, governance, and internal dynamics have influenced all institutional levels of BC politics. Leadership requires us to look closely at decision-making processes, policies, and the handling of internal conflicts. People have lost trust in the very institutions that are meant to serve them. It is time to seek transparency and accountability, and better governance, through reviews, and an increase in participatory democracy. We need to continue discussions on improving the democratic process in BC.
What do YOU think? I’m committing to vote according to my constituent’s feedback whenever possible. Fill out the questionnaire* below and let me know where we stand on the many important issues affecting our riding and BC as a whole.
*(Use the comment box below...we will be attaching the full questionnaire shortly! Add your email and we will send that questionnaire directly to you!)
If elected I will provide a system for residents of Saanich North and the Islands to register with Our Vote, where YOU let me know how to vote on legislation, vote on private member bills to introduce, and even allow you to entrust another resident as a proxy vote when you aren’t following every vote closely. This will be in the form of an ongoing feedback site AND very likely an App for those that prefer access via your phone. Accessibility is key!