This summer has been a real roller coaster of emotions for me! Not getting a nomination spot with Vision Vancouver was a huge disappointment but that is the democratic process and I accepted the results. The upside is my scheduled opened up considerably and this provided the opportunity to engage in period of self-reflection and evaluation. Who could ask for a better summer to engage in this endeavour? I’ve never cycled as much as this wonderful summer season and this was a delight.
With the completion of the Whistler GranFondo over it was time to buckle down and start getting ready for the Eastside Culture Crawl. Then, the call came to my total surprise as I had dismissed any chance of being part of Vision team for the Nov. 15 civic election. The party reached out to me and offered a position to run for the Park Board.
I was honoured that the Vision Vancouver executive asked me to be a candidate for the Park Board and I accepted after consulting with my family. I am looking forward to campaigning with the other Vision candidates Commissioner Trevor Loke, Coree Tull, Sammie Jo Rumbaua, Naveen Girn and Catherine Evans.
In this election it is critically important that Vancouver continues to move forward on the important issues in our city. Vancouver still needs more action to be the Greenest City. The expansion of oil pipelines and more tankers in our waters is a dangerous risk to our coastline. Expanding public transit in the Broadway corridor is critical to developing more sustainable transportation. Mayor Gregor Robertson and the Vision Vancouver represent a clear choice for moving Vancouver forward to more progressive, resilient future where the priorities are clear in creating a city for peoples’ health and happiness.
I am so proud and appreciative of the support that folks have given me during the nomination period. I could not have achieved as much as I have without them. Now I am asking for your continued assistance in supporting Mayor Robertson and the Vision Vancouver team. The NPA would drag Vancouver back into the past whereas Vision represents a clear progressive choice to move Vancouver forward.