Gabriola Sounder - Q&A #1

1. Why am I running for the Islands Trust? I am running as a candidate for Local Trustee to represent Gabriola, Mudge, DeCourcy and the smaller islands in this Local Trust Area because I have an abiding respect for, and good understanding of the special purpose of the Islands Trust Act and its governing principles. I am committed to representing the citizens of this Trust Area with the same energy and care I have given to our community since I moved here almost 40 years ago.

2. Why does the Islands Trust matter? The mandate of the Islands Trust, to preserve and protect the unique environment and amenities of the region for future generations and for all British Columbians, is more important than ever. The province created the Islands Trust almost 50 years ago, in response to intense development pressures. We now have those same pressures combined with the effects of climate change, dramatic inequality in housing, and the responsibilities of Reconciliation.

3. What are the top 3 issues facing Gabriola within the Islands Trust jurisdiction?

1. Updating our Official Community Plan (OCP) to address climate change, Reconciliation and housing policies.

2. Implementing Development Permit Areas (DPAs) for sensitive marine and foreshore areas.

3. Using the Coastal Douglas Fir Toolkit to implement DPAs to maintain contiguous forest cover.

#2 and 3 should be part of an OCP update but could be done separately if need be.