Name: Jim Routledge
Age: 60
Occupation/background: I am a small 'd' developer, builder and realtor. I am originally from Vancouver, have a UBC Commerce degree and experience with IBM. I moved to Nanaimo in 1982 and have worked in construction-related jobs ever since. I recently went back to school to become a realtor. I am proud of the contribution I have made to helping Nanaimo move. I am an analyzer by nature and enjoy finding efficient solutions. I make a mean caesar salad, enjoy four-wheel drive adventures, and recently I jumped out of an airplane. I wear the same waist size that I did 40 years ago. I have a wonderful spouse, a feisty 93-year old mom, and a terrific 27-year-old son. Good connections are my definition of success.
Why are you running for public office?
I want to be part of a winning team. I can see opportunities to get Nanaimo moving further and faster, and to win at the game of civic and community operations. I believe I can make a difference, build real teamwork, and contribute to the community.
What three priorities are important to you and how do you plan to tackle these issues if elected?
Management – it's time to get modern and sophisticated in the management of civic operations. We have too many poor and slow results with no changes being made to improve them. I want a high-level, open outside hiring process for city manager – MBA minimum.
Transparency – share questions and information as it come available; utilize more modern and traditional communication. I plan make the word 'transparency' actually mean something and not merely be lip service.
Attitude – I plan to take a positive and high-level view of civic operations. I play the game to create win-win results for the entire community. And I don't mind admitting that I think this entire process should be enjoyable and even fun for everyone involved.
How do you plan to manage taxes and spending?
The main part of this answer is tied up in the answer above: I need an assessment, numbers, and an operation plan I can trust. It’s neither my job to evaluate spending, nor to asses the need within the current management structure. However, I can hire someone to do that job and do it very well. I see this a vital step to getting everyone back on task and filling their role, whether it is for policy or operations.
What do you think it takes to lead Nanaimo. Describe your leadership or co-working style.
It takes someone willing to get dirty: to do the dirty work that no one else will do, and then to put on a perfect suit and get Nanaimo moving and winning. It’s our turn.
I plan to do what I do best. My track record shows that I move things efficiently and well. I am not a good teacher – I am, however, a good doer and an excellent leader. If you think I can help you, please just ask.