WHAT’S IMPORTANT

Q1: Why do you want to run for Council?

In general, I have a lifelong interest in governance and a strong awareness that how we are governed makes a difference to our lives. So we need to be aware. Specifically, from serving on the Brookswood-Fernridge Community Plan, I’ve gained an appreciation for the process. I decided that I have something valuable to offer to every Langley community.

Q2: Does being a music teacher have anything to do with serving on Town Council?

Yes, it does. I have practiced problem-solving daily, for over 50 years. In doing so, I’ve learned to think creatively and find a better, innovative, and even beautiful solution to the problem before me. And all the time, in doing so, I have worked to be an inspiration, encouragement and a motivator because I know that I am dealing with real people.

Q3: How has running a business prepared you for this venture?

Number one: learning money management. Knowing that the dollars need to earned, and the dollars need to be spent wisely. Number two: I have become proficient in organizing, developing systems, and managing schedules. Number three: as I am in business for myself, I have discovered how to keep people engaged, learned to discern their needs in order to serve them better. Number four: experienced the value of working collaboratively and effectively with motivated people.

Q4: What character attributes qualify you for a position on Langley Town council?

• years of practicing honesty and integrity
• willingness to do the difficult tasks
• Intense focus when it comes to making decisions and planning for the future.

I have a genuine concern for people and the issues that effect their lives.

Q5: What is your answer to the problem of growth?

First of all, growth is not necessarily a problem! Healthy organisms must grow, so I believe that we should embrace growth but also come alongside and make sure the growth is proper and orderly, headed towards a great result. Often just tackling the problem from a new perspective, being proactive is the best approach. Growth needs to happen but we don’t want it happen haphazardly.

Langley Township is growing fast – and changing. It comes as no surprise that with along with growth and change comes the inevitable growing pains. Trying to stop growth is like standing in front of a freight train. Not very smart. But we can be smart when it comes to growth.