Statement from council candidate Meggan Joseph

1. Why are you running for council?

Tahsis is my home, my hometown. I graduated from Captain Meares Elementary Secondary school, the very same school my three children now attend. To say I have love for this community would be an understatement. You may recognize me from the school, Bigs and Smalls, or the health centre. I have hours of blood, sweat, and tears invested in this community. I work diligently to volunteer and be an active member in any way I can.

 I have felt that over a prolonged period our best interest has been bypassed. My intentions are to stand up and step up for our community and its members. As I said at Forum, I know we cannot change the world in a day but piece by piece I believe we can create a community we can all take pride in once again.

2. What part of your background prepares you to serve on council?

I have seen and been apart of Tahsis’ difficulties and victories.

• I bring 20+ years of active volunteer experience within this community. I have been a member of the Tahsis Literacy Society, a volunteer for the Great Walk, a community support worker for power outages, hosted sports activities, community clean ups, parties, walking groups, arts and crafts, community BBQs, bonfires, group play activities, and hosted Tahsis Days’ activities and more.

• I started my political career early in High School standing as social convener 2 years running and president 3 years.

• I have been a student employee and an employee for the Village of Tahsis, the health centre and CMESS school.

• I hold Certifications in Mental health and Addictions, Community Support work, Personal Support  work, and Educational Assistance.

• I have collaborated with members in the Campbell River area working directly with at risk members which comes with responsibilities and expectations.

• I have certifications in accounting, and office management.

• I actively run the Bigs and Smalls Group.

• I actively take part in PAC and now stand as active Secretary.

• I am a member of the Campbell River and area housing coalition.

Although I may not have firsthand local government experience, I love this community! Even my pursuits of education have been to help this community. If elected, I am ready, willing, and able to learn more about responsibilities and to stand for the people.

3. What is the one thing council could do to improve Tahsis the most? (As in what is your priority)

Asking questions and empowering the members of this community by listening and making sure you have a voice, building relationships, being collaborative, finding common ground, prioritizing, and reviewing processes to improve policies and practices, and tracking and raising awareness about systemic issues. I am a strong advocate for bringing back supports and services to Tahsis.

Vote for Meggan Joseph this coming October 15 th .