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ELECTION 2014: Langford councillor candidates

Fourteen people running for six councillor seats in Langford

Candidates were asked to list their name, age, occupation, previous publicly elected political experience, and what their commitment to the residents of the municipality is if they were to be voted in. Six councillors to be elected.

* incumbent

 

* Matt Sahlstrom, 54, retired businessman, on council since 2002

My commitment to the fine folks of Langford is to do the best I can to continue to make Langford the best place to live, work and play. I will continue to promote affordable housing so young families can afford to purchase their home here, continue building recreation facilities and keep working towards senior housing so all of our seniors can remain here in Langford.

 

Andre Mollon, no age given, community volunteer, no previous experience

I want to be a strong proponent on Langford Council to work with the Canadian Housing and Mortgage Corporation on affordable housing initiatives. I also want to be a voice on council and liaison to the CRD, school district and the provincial government for a simpler system for seniors housing that is fair to seniors.

 

* Denise Blackwell, no age given, retired from provincial government, on council since 1992

I want to continue to beautify Langford by adding more sidewalks, streetlights, bike lanes, parks and trails. We have built ball and soccer fields, ice and dry floor arenas.  We asked Langford’s citizens what to work on next.  We have a list that includes a cultural/performing arts centre, another arena, and more ball fields which we want to work on next.

 

Dustin Finerty, 32, banker/media entrepreneur, no previous experience

My commitment is to be open and accountable to the residents of my community regardless of their concern and to take appropriate actions to make sure that City Council is doing everything in its power to address those concerns. I also pledge to advocate sustainable development, and address our infrastructure and personal safety needs.

 

* Lanny Seaton, age not given, retired after 41 years with Coast Guard, on council since 1996

The quality of life for our families by working to keep Langford safe and affordable. Provide opportunities for our people to stay healthy and active by providing a variety of recreation facilities, parks and trails. Keeping taxes low and money in the pockets of people to spend locally. Attracting and encouraging businesses to provide jobs, especially for our young people

 

Grant McLachlan, 21, server’s assistant, no previous experience

I’m committed to implementing an environmentally responsible growth plan that maintains valuable agricultural land, fighting for affordable, accessible and efficient public transit throughout Langford while also expanding bicycle lanes, increasing sidewalk and lighting availability, and protecting existing affordable housing while expanding the affordable housing program.

 

* Lillian Szpak, 61, leadership coach, on council since 2002

Listening to you and bringing your voice to the table has always been my top priority. Keeping taxes low while providing great services; recreation, affordable housing, commuter travel choices, cycling lanes and recreation. Future: Arts and Culture Center, completion of our bridge/road construction, commuter rail, dedicated transit lanes, more facilities for seniors/youth, high tech jobs.

 

Mark McInnes, 26, grocery clerk, no previous experience

I am running on greater engagement for residents over how their community grows. Whether on subjects such as traffic and access for people of all abilities, or the question of fair compensation for people in mobile home parks, I am committed to going out and finding how government can be an aid and not an obstacle in people’s lives.

 

Paul Barber, 58, security supervisor, no previous experience

As a time for change candidate, I will work for the citizens of Langford for safer roads, sustainable development, and  transparent and democratic decision making. We need a council that cares about its residents and businesses.The best thing for you to do is, on November 15th, mark your ballet and vote for positive change.

 

Pauline Adams, 57, MBA consultant and researcher, no previous experience

As one of the five Time For a Change candidates, we promise to remember We Work For You. We love Langford, and are pro-business and pro-development in a sustainable way. High-density subdivisions must be more family-friendly, with more parking spaces, wider streets, and more green space for children to play. It’s time for new voices and new perspectives on council.

 

* Winnie Siefert, no age given, retired school secretary, on council since 1992

I will continue working hard for the residents of Langford, building an even greater Langford, forging ahead to keep Langford the best community on the Island. I enjoy working hard for our residents and believe I have delivered over the past 22 years on council.  Keeping taxes low is a high priority and, of course, listening to the residents and taxpayers of Langford.

 

* Roger Wade, 51, operations manager, on council since 2008

I am running for re-election for Langford Council so I can ensure that Langford remains one of the most desirable places to own a business, live, play and raise a family. I commit to continuing to make Langford attractive to families, professionals and our aging population. I will make things happen. A vote for Roger Wade is a vote for continued progress in Langford.

 

Jim Munro, 62, operations manager Island Health, no previous experience

My commitment to the residents of Langford if elected will be to make sure their concerns and issues will be presented to City Hall. I will be open and honest to the residents and business communities. I will work with all parties to find the best solution to the many issues we will need to face in the upcoming years.

 

Timothy Power, 65, Education co-ordinator/counsellor/office manager Esquimalt First Nation, no previous experience

Having called on hundreds of homes and asked each resident their concerns, wants and wish lists, it’s time for change regarding roads, sidewalks, lighting, speed, school safety and  drug control within our schools. With more police involvement, no more behind closed door policy approvals, we will hold open-door policies.