Homelessness, Mental Health & Addictions
Nanaimo is facing a complex humanitarian challenge that demands coordinated, evidence‑based action. I support a balanced approach that helps vulnerable residents while ensuring our public spaces remain safe and accessible for everyone.
After a near‑fatal surgery in 2016, I gained a profound, firsthand understanding of the struggles many people face. What I once saw as simply an addiction issue — similar to alcohol or tobacco — I now recognize as part of a far more complex modern opioid crisis. Through extensive study, conversations with professionals, and listening to those living these realities, I’ve become convinced that lasting change requires the creation of Therapeutic Communities.
These communities would include three primary residences:
- One for individuals currently using substances
- One for those in active recovery
- One for those managing mental health challenges
Each residence facility would provide a safe, structured environment where residents can heal while contributing through meaningful work opportunities. Supported by integrated services, these facilities would help people rediscover purpose in a compassionate setting — equipping them with the tools and confidence to reintegrate successfully into society.
- Strengthen partnerships between the City, Island Health, and frontline organizations
- Ensure accountability and measurable outcomes for funded programs
- Support treatment‑focused pathways that help people rebuild their lives
- Protect parks, trails, and business districts through consistent enforcement and compassionate outreach
Transportation Solutions
Nanaimo is rapidly growing and as we grow we need to ensure we have an efficient transportation network. We are fortunate to have a priceless land package in place to help support this goal. I will work directly with all levels of government along with key stakeholders to bring light rail transit to Nanaimo and Vancouver Island.
- Develop a plan to build a light rail transit system to connect communities to key transport hubs including ferry ports and airports.
- Work with neighbouring municipalities along with the province/federal government to develop a light rail transit system that seamlessly connects all the cities in central and southern Vancouver Island by rail.
- Create a trail and bike path network that is separate from our roadways and connects all communities in the city.
Long‑Term Growth & Responsible Planning
Nanaimo is growing quickly, and we need planning that looks beyond the next budget cycle. Growth must be intentional, coordinated, and aligned with infrastructure capacity.
- Modernize development processes to support smart, sustainable growth
- Prioritize infrastructure upgrades that match population increases
- Ensure new housing aligns with transportation, utilities, and community needs
- Protect the character of established neighborhoods while supporting density where appropriate
A growing city requires post secondary education opportunities that help create local business opportunities and support the growth of our local economy. This will be achieved by expanding offerings through local post secondary institues including:
- Universities
- Colleges
- Trade Schools
- Accademic Upgrading Schools
Fiscal Responsibility & Transparent Governance
Residents deserve a City Council that treats public dollars with the same care and scrutiny as a household budget. I believe in transparent decision‑making, clear communication, and responsible spending.
- Strengthen financial oversight and reporting
- Reduce inefficiencies and duplication across departments
- Ensure tax increases are justified, necessary, and clearly communicated
- Promote open data and public access to budget information
My background in construction and development fills a critical void in our current city council. Having built roads, homes, recreational facilities, and civil service buildings, I have an in depth understanding of the budget and scheduling associated with these projects. This will provide residents with added reassurance that tax dollars are being used effectively.
Citizen Insight Portal
While our world has evolved and changed significantly with the help of technology, our government systems have failed to keep up with the pace. I believe it's time we change this and give citizens more input on important issues. This is I why I will work with council to develop a citizen input portal that allows all our residents to have more involvement. This portal will include:
- Polling on all items brought before council.
- Insight and background on each topic so citizens can better understand what is being considered and why.
- A suggestion section where citizens can suggest new ideas and initiatives.
A Family‑Friendly Community
Nanaimo should be a place where families can thrive — where children have opportunities, where seniors feel supported, and where residents of all ages enjoy a high quality of life.
- Expand recreation options and family programming
- Enhance parks, trails, and waterfront access
- Support local businesses and community events
Grow Local Food Supply
Local food production is critical for any city, and as our population grows, it is important that we ensure that local food production increases accordingly. With that in mind I will make every effort to work with provincial leaders to allocate the neccessary land to make this goal achievable.
- Increase the farm land supply in land that surrounds Nanaimo.
- Work with agriculture groups to support the development of these designated farmlands.
- Provide opportunities to locals wishing to farm or ranch on these lands.