Name: Bill Bestwick
Age: 60
Occupation: B & B Consulting. St. Louis Blues, NHL amateur scout
Why are you running for public office?
I am seeking re-election to continue my commitment to represent the citizens of Nanaimo who share the values which I represent and continue to pursue opportunities to enrich and grow a healthy and prosperous city with a view to restore trust and confidence in city hall.
What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues, if elected?
Performance review: Continue to advocate for an independent performance review with the goal and objective to identify potential areas for savings.
Citizens participation: Ensure citizens from all sectors of our community maintain their right to engage in the democratic process of city hall.
Asset management: Ensure adequate resources are made available to maintain our aging infrastructure with a plan that respects the associated costs to the taxpayer and annual operating budget.
How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
An independent comprehensive review of mandatory and discretionary spending is imperative in order to clearly define where spending may be curtailed or revenues may be positively adjusted. The annual operating budget and deliberations leading to approval of the five-year plan must start with a common objective of mayor and council to review options for budget control.
What do you think it takes to lead Nanaimo? Describe your leadership or co-working style?
Conviction – willingness to lead with passion and determination. Listen – communicate with the citizens and stakeholders openly and honestly. Persuasion – identify tangible objective goals with a vision to advance the city with a cohesive approach