Another big crowd as a round of all-Candidates meetings get underway in Sechelt.
On Tuesday, the 15 council candidates tackled a variety of issues; including jobs.
Christine Stefanik is a Former Chamber of Commerce president.
For Noel Muller, it’s the type of jobs that matter. He says people are losing sight of the importance of so-called “value added” jobs.
Mike Turner says people need to feel they can achieve the “Canadian Dream” living in Sechelt.
How public consultation is being handled for the District’s latest omnibus zoning bylaw also came up.
It led to some criticism of the current Council, from candidates including Doug Wright.
Former Councillor Keith Thirkell also doesn’t like how it’s being handled.
Sitting Councillor Alice Lutes agrees it’s been mishandled.
Incumbent Mike Shanks, had similar comments.
Fellow incumbents Tom Lamb and Darnelda Siegers say it was District staff who set the initial timeline, but once people raised concerns it was changed.
Darren Inkster, a Former Mayor running for Council, had this to say:
Jon Bell says consulting with residents is a weak point right now.
And Terry Karkabe says it’s a key part of a Council’s job.
Ed Steeves, a former Councillor, says his experience tells him Council and staff have to be open to what the public is saying.
Norm Blair agrees.
Former Counicllor Alice Janisch didn’t answer the question on the zoning bylaw, but hinted at dissatisfaction with the current Council when asked why she though so many people were running.
Sechelt’s next all candidates meeting is coming up on November 6th
