Name: Brian Dempsey
Age: 68
Occupation/background: Retired B.C. Telephone engineering technician/small business owner. Graduate of BCIT in 1968 (Electronics). Married to Colleen for 30 years. Our daughter attended Seaview School.
Why are you running for office?
I believe I can continue to make a positive contribution to the community. I have the time, energy and proven dedication to be an effective councillor. I am committed to work to improve the quality of life for all residents of Lantzville.
I have gained a great deal of knowledge and experience during my 24 years of public service in Lantzville: trustee, Lantzville Improvement District,1990-2003; councillor, District of Lantzville, 2003-2014.
What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
I will continue to work towards achieving the goals of the Official Community Plan, providing community water so that all citizens of Lantzville have clean, safe drinking water and improved fire protection with additional fire hydrants; expanding community sewer as needed; providing opportunities for new housing for seniors and young families.
Based on my years of experience, I will work with council to continue to obtain the best value for our tax dollar.
How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
Council must establish a strategic plan, short-term and long-term. Asset management is a key tool for council to use when making decisions regarding taxes and spending. I will encourage council to follow Asset Management B.C. guidelines when considering budget items.
What do you think it takes to lead Lantzville? Describe your leadership or co-working style.
Decision-making is most effective in a consensus-based, respectful climate. Councillors hear a range of opinions on any given issue. I am open to listening to the views of others. I do my research and then I base my decision on the information I have received. I try to find solutions to problems or reach a compromise when necessary. Once council makes a decision, councillors must respect the decision, regardless of their personal views.