CORE PLATFORM COMMITMENTS
As your Port Moody Councillor, I commit to:
As your Port Moody Councillor, I commit to:
BE A STRONG VOICE FOR RESPONSIBLE DEVELOPMENT
BE AN ACTIVE VOICE FOR TRANSPORTATION & INFRASTRUCTURE
BE AN EXPERIENCED VOICE FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
BE AN ACCOMPLISHED VOICE FOR SUSTAINABILITY LEADERSHIP
There are always going to be competing interests, priorities and budgeting challenges. I am sure there will also be internal and external factors that influence how we move ahead with some of the cities more important decisions. With that said, I can absolutely commit to being your representative that acts with INTEGRITY, RESPECT, ACCOUNTABILITY, VISION, PASSION & OPEN COMMUNICATION.
CURRENT STRATEGIC PLAN ACTIONS & PERSPECTIVES
To present a relevant, focused platform, I chose to communicate my ideas, positions and commitments as they relate directly to our Port Moody Council Strategic Plan (click HERE to view the plan). The idea is not to redevelop plans, goals and actions already in progress, but share with you how my platform and perspectives fit seamlessly into the current Council dynamic while still being a fresh, proactive voice that represents all Port Moody residents.
To present a relevant, focused platform, I chose to communicate my ideas, positions and commitments as they relate directly to our Port Moody Council Strategic Plan (click HERE to view the plan). The idea is not to redevelop plans, goals and actions already in progress, but share with you how my platform and perspectives fit seamlessly into the current Council dynamic while still being a fresh, proactive voice that represents all Port Moody residents.
A. COMMUNITY PLANNING
Proactive regional, city and neighbourhood planning for the short and long-term that engages neighbourhoods to create a liveable, vibrant, sustainable, orderly, and coordinated community.
Proactive regional, city and neighbourhood planning for the short and long-term that engages neighbourhoods to create a liveable, vibrant, sustainable, orderly, and coordinated community.
Moody Centre Transit Oriented Development Neighbourhood Plan
In June 2017, current Council moved ahead with steps to prepare for an amendment to the OCP for the Moody Centre Transit Plan. The next action is to have the City’s recommendations prepared for public hearings and ensure feedback from our residents is addressed when/if OCP amendments are made. Ensuring public input is heard and reflected in decisions will be my top priority, keeping in mind that given these developments are so close to public transit, this would be an ideal area to maximize development density.
In June 2017, current Council moved ahead with steps to prepare for an amendment to the OCP for the Moody Centre Transit Plan. The next action is to have the City’s recommendations prepared for public hearings and ensure feedback from our residents is addressed when/if OCP amendments are made. Ensuring public input is heard and reflected in decisions will be my top priority, keeping in mind that given these developments are so close to public transit, this would be an ideal area to maximize development density.
Coronation Park Neighbourhood Plan
In May 2017, Council adopted an OCP amendment to implement the Coronation Park Neighbourhood Plan. To be successful, this plan requires a comprehensive Financing Strategy. I will support this process with vast experience in financing, budgets and negotiations with partners for the project, including the City of Coquitlam, who will have a big impact on this development, along with the developer partners.
In May 2017, Council adopted an OCP amendment to implement the Coronation Park Neighbourhood Plan. To be successful, this plan requires a comprehensive Financing Strategy. I will support this process with vast experience in financing, budgets and negotiations with partners for the project, including the City of Coquitlam, who will have a big impact on this development, along with the developer partners.
Fire Hall 1 and Works Yard Redevelopment
This is one of our most interesting opportunities for Port Moody because it is one of our most invaluable assets with a location that is dynamic enough for several options. After extensive review of the City Land Strategies report for this space, it is clear that residents would like Council to move ahead with a development on this land, as long as the financial outcome supports 5+ major projects in our City (Inlet Park, Kyle Centre and the Library, for example). A project of this magnitude will simultaneously reduce pressures on densities in other developments and align with recommendations for densification around major transportation hubs (including bike lanes and public transit). With this in mind, I will be a strong voice for Council to think outside the box on strategies to negotiate a development on this site that offers aggressive sustainability and financial targets for the City.
This is one of our most interesting opportunities for Port Moody because it is one of our most invaluable assets with a location that is dynamic enough for several options. After extensive review of the City Land Strategies report for this space, it is clear that residents would like Council to move ahead with a development on this land, as long as the financial outcome supports 5+ major projects in our City (Inlet Park, Kyle Centre and the Library, for example). A project of this magnitude will simultaneously reduce pressures on densities in other developments and align with recommendations for densification around major transportation hubs (including bike lanes and public transit). With this in mind, I will be a strong voice for Council to think outside the box on strategies to negotiate a development on this site that offers aggressive sustainability and financial targets for the City.
Affordable Housing Policy
The current Affordable Housing Policy is outdated with the last updates in 2009. After attending committee and Council meetings, it is clear that residents and other Council members are keen to have a policy that addresses Affordable Housing in place as soon as possible. My commitment to residents is to help spearhead this initiative and ensure that we have a policy in place by August 2018 (check out this tool for information on affordable housing economics for cities: https://inclusionaryhousing.org/calculator/).
The current Affordable Housing Policy is outdated with the last updates in 2009. After attending committee and Council meetings, it is clear that residents and other Council members are keen to have a policy that addresses Affordable Housing in place as soon as possible. My commitment to residents is to help spearhead this initiative and ensure that we have a policy in place by August 2018 (check out this tool for information on affordable housing economics for cities: https://inclusionaryhousing.org/calculator/).
Zoning Bylaw (& Policy) Updates
Our current Zoning Bylaws are outdated. If we reflect on what has made some of the world’s most advanced developments successful, it starts with progressive Zoning Bylaw and Policy updates. My commitment to residents is be a proactive member on Council that makes sure recommendations and key zoning bylaw updates are completed in a timely manner. The reality is Port Moody has many projects in progress and in the funnel for consideration or approval. The sooner we have the right zoning bylaws in place, the sooner:
Our current Zoning Bylaws are outdated. If we reflect on what has made some of the world’s most advanced developments successful, it starts with progressive Zoning Bylaw and Policy updates. My commitment to residents is be a proactive member on Council that makes sure recommendations and key zoning bylaw updates are completed in a timely manner. The reality is Port Moody has many projects in progress and in the funnel for consideration or approval. The sooner we have the right zoning bylaws in place, the sooner:
- Our developer partners will have clear parameters to operate
- Our City staff will have more management processes
- Our Council will have a clear formula to evaluate projects and ensure they meet predetermined requirements
City Wayfinding Updates
This initiative influences Port Moody residents as well as local businesses (as advised by members of our Economic Development Committee) since tourists and visitors are often unable to find activities and businesses they are interested in visiting. Technology has evolved for City Wayfinding. In fact, several technology companies that I have worked with or been involved in reviewing for other projects take City Wayfinding to the next level. My commitment to residents is to bring this knowledge of technology solutions and grant funding strategies to implement leading-edge City Wayfinders in the City of Port Moody.
This initiative influences Port Moody residents as well as local businesses (as advised by members of our Economic Development Committee) since tourists and visitors are often unable to find activities and businesses they are interested in visiting. Technology has evolved for City Wayfinding. In fact, several technology companies that I have worked with or been involved in reviewing for other projects take City Wayfinding to the next level. My commitment to residents is to bring this knowledge of technology solutions and grant funding strategies to implement leading-edge City Wayfinders in the City of Port Moody.
IOCO Lands Redevelopment Support
This project is in its infancy. Over the last month, it was important to meet with stakeholders on this project to hear first hand what plans are in place to move this project along. My commitment to residents is to get up to speed as quickly as possible to become a relevant voice during future discussions surrounding this project that will hold the teams and stakeholders accountable to their commitments. Though there are short-term concerns around accessing the site, there are key success factors that make this project attractive for our City:
This project is in its infancy. Over the last month, it was important to meet with stakeholders on this project to hear first hand what plans are in place to move this project along. My commitment to residents is to get up to speed as quickly as possible to become a relevant voice during future discussions surrounding this project that will hold the teams and stakeholders accountable to their commitments. Though there are short-term concerns around accessing the site, there are key success factors that make this project attractive for our City:
- Commitment to sustainable design and development
- Commitment to incorporate usable park space, amenities and other important community elements into the plan
- Commitment to be flexible on the structure of the development (office, single family, multi-family, rental, etc)
B. MOVING PEOPLE
Develop and implement integrated and responsive transportation plans.
Develop and implement integrated and responsive transportation plans.
TransPort Moody Master Transportation Plan
This plan is complete and was approved by Council in March 2017. This plan was developed in consultation with our community and needs to be the cornerstone for directives and decisions that impact transportation planning throughout Port Moody. My commitment is to work with Council members and all strategic partners outlined in the plan to ensure that:
This plan is complete and was approved by Council in March 2017. This plan was developed in consultation with our community and needs to be the cornerstone for directives and decisions that impact transportation planning throughout Port Moody. My commitment is to work with Council members and all strategic partners outlined in the plan to ensure that:
- Our residents and visitors can walk, cycle and/or take public transit to, from and throughout our city
- Our future development projects guarantee multi-mode transportation access
- Our city leaders make economic development a priority in our region so that residents want to build local businesses and work closer to home
- Our local parks and trails are attractive and maintained for use
Murray Street Bike Path Extension
This project was planned for 2017 but moved to 2018 for time and budgetary purposes.
This project was planned for 2017 but moved to 2018 for time and budgetary purposes.
PROPOSED NEW ACTION ITEM
Updated Business Case for Murray / Clark Bypass Connector
Solving one our City’s biggest transportation problems needs attention. Previous Council’s have attempted to close funding support from partners for the Murrary / Clark Bypass Connector, such as Translink and other levels of government, but have been unable to get this project complete. My commitment is to work with Council to build a strong business case to present to partners on why funding for the Murray / Clark Bypass Connector needs to happen as soon as possible. This project is not only instrumental to the success of our City, surrounding cities and expectations of us as part of the bigger Metro Vancouver Transportation Plan, but also essential to helping us realize our other goals for housing developments, economic development projects, quality of life for residents and an overall leading sustainable city. Like all projects, the “squeaky wheel” often ensures we are a priority for funding with our funding partners. I intend to be that “squeaky wheel.”
Updated Business Case for Murray / Clark Bypass Connector
Solving one our City’s biggest transportation problems needs attention. Previous Council’s have attempted to close funding support from partners for the Murrary / Clark Bypass Connector, such as Translink and other levels of government, but have been unable to get this project complete. My commitment is to work with Council to build a strong business case to present to partners on why funding for the Murray / Clark Bypass Connector needs to happen as soon as possible. This project is not only instrumental to the success of our City, surrounding cities and expectations of us as part of the bigger Metro Vancouver Transportation Plan, but also essential to helping us realize our other goals for housing developments, economic development projects, quality of life for residents and an overall leading sustainable city. Like all projects, the “squeaky wheel” often ensures we are a priority for funding with our funding partners. I intend to be that “squeaky wheel.”
C. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (MARKED AS COMPLETE)
Ensure the city is developed and maintained as a complete community with live, work and play opportunities. This was a disappointing update in my review of the Council Strategic Plan. After spending months in the community talking with business owners and residents, there is a very clear perception that NOT enough is being done here. I propose a new Action in the next section to ensure Council priorities meet constituent expectations for Economic Development in Port Moody.
Ensure the city is developed and maintained as a complete community with live, work and play opportunities. This was a disappointing update in my review of the Council Strategic Plan. After spending months in the community talking with business owners and residents, there is a very clear perception that NOT enough is being done here. I propose a new Action in the next section to ensure Council priorities meet constituent expectations for Economic Development in Port Moody.
PROPOSED NEW ACTION ITEM
Economic Development Plan and Funding Strategy
This would be a new project that I would propose for immediate review and consideration with other Council members and City staff. After speaking with hundreds of residents, business owners and community stakeholders, NOT ONE has confirmed that the City of Port Moody is meeting expectations on an Economic Development Plan. My immediate commitment would be to prepare a high-level strategy with funding ideas to hire an Economic Development Manager for the City of Port Moody, and support this role with all of my available resources and networks.
Economic Development Plan and Funding Strategy
This would be a new project that I would propose for immediate review and consideration with other Council members and City staff. After speaking with hundreds of residents, business owners and community stakeholders, NOT ONE has confirmed that the City of Port Moody is meeting expectations on an Economic Development Plan. My immediate commitment would be to prepare a high-level strategy with funding ideas to hire an Economic Development Manager for the City of Port Moody, and support this role with all of my available resources and networks.
D. PARKS & RECREATION
Establish and maintain park, recreation and open gathering spaces and facilities that enhance the lives of citizens.
Establish and maintain park, recreation and open gathering spaces and facilities that enhance the lives of citizens.
Kyle Centre Site Strategy
A major community consultation process was completed for Kyle Centre Site with a report published in September 2016. Though Rocky Point Park, Bert Flinn Park and acquiring more park space with new developments have been hot topics around Port Moody Parks and Recreation, the revitalization of Kyle Centre is a big opportunity for our community. With a year passed, it is time for Council to make recommendations to city staff and related committee groups to move ahead with more details concepts for the space that directly take into the consideration of the feedback session. My commitment is to support this process and ensure that ample green space, sustainable development, leading edge design and new revenue potential are considered for this space while protecting the existing park space this property offers.
A major community consultation process was completed for Kyle Centre Site with a report published in September 2016. Though Rocky Point Park, Bert Flinn Park and acquiring more park space with new developments have been hot topics around Port Moody Parks and Recreation, the revitalization of Kyle Centre is a big opportunity for our community. With a year passed, it is time for Council to make recommendations to city staff and related committee groups to move ahead with more details concepts for the space that directly take into the consideration of the feedback session. My commitment is to support this process and ensure that ample green space, sustainable development, leading edge design and new revenue potential are considered for this space while protecting the existing park space this property offers.
Rocky Point Park Master Plan
The last Rocky Point Master Plan was completed and implemented in 2000. As a candidate, I am very aware of the pressures we have to prepare a new Rocky Point Master Plan over the next 18 - 24 months. I am absolutely committed to protecting the integrity of Rocky Point Park, and increasing it’s size and accessibility where possible. Living across from the park means that I frequently use the park and see others use the park every day. Some days, with local festivals and events, we have put our park at capacity, while other days leave opportunity for everyone to enjoy. A few major areas I encourage in the new plan include: better garbage and recycling solutions, improved trails and walkways, increased maintenance and clean-up of debris, enhanced parking to accommodate more visitors, enhanced multi-modal transportation access to the park, maximized access to the shoreline, and modernized way-finders, playgrounds and event infrastructure.
The last Rocky Point Master Plan was completed and implemented in 2000. As a candidate, I am very aware of the pressures we have to prepare a new Rocky Point Master Plan over the next 18 - 24 months. I am absolutely committed to protecting the integrity of Rocky Point Park, and increasing it’s size and accessibility where possible. Living across from the park means that I frequently use the park and see others use the park every day. Some days, with local festivals and events, we have put our park at capacity, while other days leave opportunity for everyone to enjoy. A few major areas I encourage in the new plan include: better garbage and recycling solutions, improved trails and walkways, increased maintenance and clean-up of debris, enhanced parking to accommodate more visitors, enhanced multi-modal transportation access to the park, maximized access to the shoreline, and modernized way-finders, playgrounds and event infrastructure.
Inlet Field Upgrade
The Inlet Field Upgrade project has been going on too long. Inlet park is rough for anyone to use any time, and weather often causes the City to close the field. I am committed to supporting an investment in making Inlet Field a world-class facility for athletes and residents to play, train and enjoy. We need to make decisions on getting the funding required to move this project along. Our options are limited unless we push our Provincial and Federal Government partners for funding, but with other needs from these group for transportation funding support, it is time to develop our own strategy and get all Councillors working on a strategy together.
The Inlet Field Upgrade project has been going on too long. Inlet park is rough for anyone to use any time, and weather often causes the City to close the field. I am committed to supporting an investment in making Inlet Field a world-class facility for athletes and residents to play, train and enjoy. We need to make decisions on getting the funding required to move this project along. Our options are limited unless we push our Provincial and Federal Government partners for funding, but with other needs from these group for transportation funding support, it is time to develop our own strategy and get all Councillors working on a strategy together.
E. ARTS & CULTURE
Create and nurture community through supporting arts, culture and learning, and recognizing and celebrating the City’s rich heritage.
Create and nurture community through supporting arts, culture and learning, and recognizing and celebrating the City’s rich heritage.
ENHANCED ACTION ITEM
Arts & Culture Master Plan
A draft plan is available HERE. My commitment for Art & Culture in Port Moody is to ensure that Art & Culture is always considered in our development and transportation projects. Port Moody is the City of the Arts, we must protect this heritage. One way to access funding to bring this vision to life is to ensure we always collect Development Cost Charges (DCC) from all projects, as opposed to sacrificing this funding to appease other developer requests. There are also opportunities for international competitions and art funding projects that could be implemented in Port Moody to showcase local art and art from around the world.
Arts & Culture Master Plan
A draft plan is available HERE. My commitment for Art & Culture in Port Moody is to ensure that Art & Culture is always considered in our development and transportation projects. Port Moody is the City of the Arts, we must protect this heritage. One way to access funding to bring this vision to life is to ensure we always collect Development Cost Charges (DCC) from all projects, as opposed to sacrificing this funding to appease other developer requests. There are also opportunities for international competitions and art funding projects that could be implemented in Port Moody to showcase local art and art from around the world.
F. PRESERVING ENVIRONMENT
Be leaders, stewards and advocates for the protection, conservation, and enhancement of the natural environment.
Be leaders, stewards and advocates for the protection, conservation, and enhancement of the natural environment.
Green Building Standards Policy
Council has made good progress on other areas of the Council Strategic Plan. I would argue that Actions around our Green Buildings Standards Policy need attention sooner than later given all of the development applications in progress and I would like to add bandwidth to the team to move this action along. My immediate commitment is to work with other Council members to get up to speed on all of the Green Building Standards Policy items in progress. From here, I will work with the team to prioritize 2 to 3 priority policies that Council believes will help our City set the tone for future policies and work to have them finalized and implemented. My approach on decision making for these policies will be to research other leading cities in this space, and balance their policies with the realistic targets and input from our constituents.
Council has made good progress on other areas of the Council Strategic Plan. I would argue that Actions around our Green Buildings Standards Policy need attention sooner than later given all of the development applications in progress and I would like to add bandwidth to the team to move this action along. My immediate commitment is to work with other Council members to get up to speed on all of the Green Building Standards Policy items in progress. From here, I will work with the team to prioritize 2 to 3 priority policies that Council believes will help our City set the tone for future policies and work to have them finalized and implemented. My approach on decision making for these policies will be to research other leading cities in this space, and balance their policies with the realistic targets and input from our constituents.
ENHANCED ACTION ITEM
Public 'Green' Campaign
Though the City website (which is also in the process of being updated) does outline some basic City programs for residents and businesses to consider in their day-to-day activities, if you have taken the time to learn more about me, you know I am one of the most passionate people when it comes to sustainability and our environment. Of all of the candidates, I have also been the most engaged in green initiatives and clean technologies (for people and municipalities) for many years. My commitment to residents is to be the ultimate champion for public green initiatives throughout our City. From a balanced approach to preserving our park space to positioning Port Moody as a global leader in sustainability, green technology adoption, and clean communities, I will bring my vast expertise in this space to all of the strategies, by-laws and initiatives residents, Councillors and City Staff bring to the table, including a few of my own initiatives:
Public 'Green' Campaign
Though the City website (which is also in the process of being updated) does outline some basic City programs for residents and businesses to consider in their day-to-day activities, if you have taken the time to learn more about me, you know I am one of the most passionate people when it comes to sustainability and our environment. Of all of the candidates, I have also been the most engaged in green initiatives and clean technologies (for people and municipalities) for many years. My commitment to residents is to be the ultimate champion for public green initiatives throughout our City. From a balanced approach to preserving our park space to positioning Port Moody as a global leader in sustainability, green technology adoption, and clean communities, I will bring my vast expertise in this space to all of the strategies, by-laws and initiatives residents, Councillors and City Staff bring to the table, including a few of my own initiatives:
- Better public garbage bin infrastructure including recycling bins and organic waste disposal
- Policy pressures for big businesses that cause excess waste in our City (coffee cups and plastic bags)
- Advanced education series on Living Green and Green Home Improvement Incentives available through City partners
Livable Streets Plan
This project was planned for 2017 but was delayed for time and budgetary purposes. This is a VERY important improvement to our community. Residents from all areas have expressed concern for the lack of livable streets. My commitment to residents is to make sure that this action on the Council Strategic Plan is not lost in 2018.
This project was planned for 2017 but was delayed for time and budgetary purposes. This is a VERY important improvement to our community. Residents from all areas have expressed concern for the lack of livable streets. My commitment to residents is to make sure that this action on the Council Strategic Plan is not lost in 2018.
KICK-OFF PLAN
This by-election term is a short 12 month sprint, at which point we will be back to the polls voting for our next Council and Mayor. Of course, I will be part of that process in 2018 as well. To reduce my learning curve and ensure I have fully prepared and educated on the status of all relevant city projects and priorities, my immediate action item will be to:
This by-election term is a short 12 month sprint, at which point we will be back to the polls voting for our next Council and Mayor. Of course, I will be part of that process in 2018 as well. To reduce my learning curve and ensure I have fully prepared and educated on the status of all relevant city projects and priorities, my immediate action item will be to:
PRIORITIZE COMMITTEE MEETINGS
The two most important committees to kick-start my role on Council would be the Community Planning Advisory Committee and Finance Committee. Getting involved in these will be the immediate first steps in having true visibility into the current commitments and plans being considered for our cities’ developments and finances.
The next few committees that need support are the Environmental Protection Committee and Heritage Commission, where former Councillor Rick Glumac has left the role of Chair or Vice Chair. I am committed to getting involved with these committees and helping these teams move ahead with their current goals and objectives.
Two other committees that I definitely plan to engage with are the Economic Development Committee and Tourism Committee. The Economic Development Committee is important because after connecting with committee members, business owners and residents, there has been a clear message that recommendations from this committee need immediate attention and consideration. The Tourism Committee has held off on meetings for a few months, so I think it would be prudent to look into this to see if getting this Committee up and running is a priority or not. I am committed to learning more about how these committees are progressing, and how I can inject passion and energy into these teams.
The two most important committees to kick-start my role on Council would be the Community Planning Advisory Committee and Finance Committee. Getting involved in these will be the immediate first steps in having true visibility into the current commitments and plans being considered for our cities’ developments and finances.
The next few committees that need support are the Environmental Protection Committee and Heritage Commission, where former Councillor Rick Glumac has left the role of Chair or Vice Chair. I am committed to getting involved with these committees and helping these teams move ahead with their current goals and objectives.
Two other committees that I definitely plan to engage with are the Economic Development Committee and Tourism Committee. The Economic Development Committee is important because after connecting with committee members, business owners and residents, there has been a clear message that recommendations from this committee need immediate attention and consideration. The Tourism Committee has held off on meetings for a few months, so I think it would be prudent to look into this to see if getting this Committee up and running is a priority or not. I am committed to learning more about how these committees are progressing, and how I can inject passion and energy into these teams.
CONNECT WITH MORE RESIDENTS & STAKEHOLDERS
After the election, the real work begins. I am committed to being an engaged, responsive Council representative for all Port Moody residents. Expect to see me out in your community and responding within 24 hours by phone or email as your questions and feedback are received.
After the election, the real work begins. I am committed to being an engaged, responsive Council representative for all Port Moody residents. Expect to see me out in your community and responding within 24 hours by phone or email as your questions and feedback are received.