As part of the News Bulletin’s coverage of the city council byelection, we asked all candidates to answer questions about their background, candidacy and priorities. Responses have been edited for grammar, style and clarity.
NOAH ROUTLEY, 43
Occupation/background:
Having worked as a professional advocate in Nanaimo as a program coordinator in mental health, as an addiction counsellor and as an employment counsellor, my passion is for helping our community and representing those that are unheard. I would like to thank Nanaimo for electing me as one of your School District 68 trustees in 2014 and for the honour of advocating for the needs of our children in our school district.
Why are you running for city council?
If you elect me to your Nanaimo city council, I will ensure your community voice will be represented. My track record of advocating for the needs of the entire community as a school trustee will also be seen as a council member. I have listened to the entire community prior to decision making. I have pushed for community schools to remain open, for the use of surplus funds to be used for direct services and have voted against service cuts. I have worked passionately on this while respecting other trustees’ opinions. I want to bring this overall respectful approach to council.
What will be your priorities if you are elected and what do you want to accomplish in the 15 months before the 2018 civic election?
Respect in council meetings; as a public servant I will stand, respectfully, against others who show disrespect. I will advocate for more public input, adequate time and thoroughness in surveying the public and less closed door meetings. Within my focus is also streamlined bylaws and less bureaucracy in favour of affordable family housing. There are many exciting projects proposed in Nanaimo but we need to listen to the public’s priorities first. Only after careful consultation with our entire community should we move ahead on any of these proposals. I will push against further tax increases due to such projects unless the public is behind them. If elected to city council, I will serve all residents of Nanaimo, not just the interests of a few.