In preparation for the municipal election on October 15, I have asked each of the 10 candidates to answer three general questions that will give voters an idea of where they are coming from. First is Sarah Fowler
1. Why are you running for council?
I am running for council because I enjoy participating in democracy. My involvement in our community is longstanding and will continue regardless of election results in whatever capacity possible. Prior to being elected to the village of Tahsis council I was pleased to provide services as a lifeguard at the community recreation center, among other things. In short, to serve is my hobby, and I consider it a great honour to represent on your behalf.
2. What part of your background prepares you to serve on council?
I am prepared to serve because of the experience gained over the last 4 years in my first term. Somehow, it felt much longer. I have taken every opportunity available to learn more about municipal government processes. Besides being acclaimed as a small community representative to the UBCM (Union of British Columbia Municipalities) executive board 2020 and elected as director at large to the AVICC (Association of Vancouver Island Coastal Communities) executive in 2022 I have also been awarded the LGLA (Local Government Leadership Academy) Level 1 certification. Furthermore my extended background includes working as an administrator to the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration at the House of Commons when I was studying political science in Ottawa.
3. What is the one thing council could do to improve Tahsis the most?
My priority is balance. The distinct jurisdiction of local government is limited to water, waste water and local roads. Everything after that is either grant driven as part of the strategy plan or funded directly from prior years surplus in the case of the village of Tahsis. There are far more needs unmet, above and beyond the bare minimum, and yet we need to work with what we have. At a recent convention for local governments, a friend I had been working with virtually over the course of the pandemic introduced me to her colleague as "this is Sarah, she governs a dying town." Since the mill was closed in 2000 we have definitely experienced rural shrinkage, but seeing as I have only lived here for 12 years I don't remember the days of plenty. When I first arrived here I was excited by the potential I saw, and I hope that's how new residents still feel.
4. Any additional comments?
My additional comments are sincere and heartfelt gratitude for the last 4 years representing all the residents of our village. I have the utmost respect for any one who puts their name on a ballot. Please feel free to contact me directly, my home number is found in the phonebook and I am found on social media sites. Thank you.
Sincerely, yours in service.
Smf
Sarah Fowler
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