Get to know: Candidates for Mayor of Powell River

Maggie Hathaway

What issue isn’t getting enough attention in this election so far, and how will you address that issue?

BC Ferries – Citizens have become lethargic. Nothing ever changes. There is a black market reservation system. We brought this to the attention of the Minister. He pledged to eliminate. We lobbied to bring back resident cards and priority boarding.

From qathet Climate Action: How will you support real action on the climate emergency?

The City’s Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Committee has worked tirelessly on this topic. Our staff have applied for and been successful in achieving thousands of dollars in grants. I would reinstate the Committee to continue advising Council on best practices.

From Volunteer Powell River Youth CAT: How do you intend to work with the new council?

Working collaboratively, listening to all input and ideas, reviewing required policy and procedures under Provincial legislation and ultimately creating a strategic plan that is achievable and responsive to citizen concerns.

From Chamber of Commerce: How will you help solve the local employee crisis?

Another issue that is occurring across the Province. The Provincial Nominee Program is bringing in immigrant workers and employers should take advantage of this program. I commit to working closely with the Chamber of Commerce to achieve adequate staffing levels.

CaroleAnn Leishman

What issue isn’t getting enough attention in this election so far, and how will you address that issue?

The Climate Emergency. 619 people died in one week in BC during the heat dome. We are seeing more extreme weather events: floods, wildfires, storm surges, droughts…. We need increased awareness, and engagement to reduce our emissions, make our community safer, more resilient and localize action.

From qathet Climate Action: How will you support real action on the climate emergency?

Continue to collaborate with local climate groups, qathet RD & Tla’amin Nation to work together regionally; continue with City’s actions by establishing a new climate action steering committee; target community emissions with safe, accessible streets programs, improve transit service and create/support building retrofit programs.

From Volunteer Powell River Youth CAT: How do you intend to work with the new council?

As a team. Finding out what makes each member tick and what they are excited to work on and assign portfolios based on their interests and skills. Make being on Council a positive experience and provide opportunities for leadership development.

From Chamber of Commerce: How will you help solve the local employee crisis?

I will support and encourage: skills (re)training and apprenticeship programs in building & energy retrofit sector; a Municipal Housing Authority to supply affordable workforce housing; build more childcare spaces to support working families and continue resident attraction campaigns aimed at younger families and workers.

Ron Woznow

What issue isn’t getting enough attention in this election so far, and how will you address that issue?

Conflict of interest of elected and appointed officials. I will work with the CAO Russell Brewer and Council to ensure everyone knows and follows conflict of interest rules.

From qathet Climate Action: How will you support real action on the climate emergency?

I will lead the city in the implementation of provincial and federal global warming initiatives.

Initiate a program to encourage residents to conserve natural resources and energy.

Continue to support initiatives already underway.

From Volunteer Powell River Youth CAT: How do you intend to work with the new council?

I will use my leadership experience to ensure each councillor is given an opportunity to use their skill set and experience to benefit Powell River.

From Chamber of Commerce: How will you help solve the local employee crisis?

One important area of focus must be ensuring the hospital, healthcare workers and physicians have the required resources necessary to deliver a high level of service. We must look for solutions to ensure there are no emergency room closures.