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.
SACIA BURTON, 24
Occupation/background:
I am a political consultant, which means I bring a variety of skills and ideas to assist and run political campaigns with various goals. I have worked on federal and provincial level campaigns, including as a canvassing coordinator in Nanaimo-Ladysmith for five months and on the winning proportional representation community campaign during P.E.I.’s electoral reform plebiscite in the fall of 2016.
Why are you running for city council?
I aim to bring a young, female, hopeful voice to council. I have a vision for Nanaimo as an affordable, walkable and bikeable city, and I feel that I can be a strong advocate for that vision. Further, I hope to extend what I learn from this campaign process to other young, progressive, and/or female candidates who may face barriers or obstacles that would prevent them from being more engaged in politics. I hope that many learn from my experience.
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?
I would support the funding and building of the Island Roots Co-op year-round market site at Beban Park; I would push for budget reallocation from road development to bike land development; and I would demonstrate that politics can be conducted thoughtfully, respectfully, and critically as a young person on council.