Platform
Larry Responses to Questions from the Salt Spring Arts Council
1. The Trust System Works
If I didn't believe in the Trust system, I wouldn't be running to become a trustee. I believe the Islands Trust is one of the best ideas our province ever had. I fully support its mandate to preserve and protect one of the best places in the world to live, work and raise a family. We're an innovative, creative community of many strengths. Let's keep it that way.
2. Listen to Your Concerns
On rezoning or planning decisions, I will seek to hear the concerns of all those whose quality of life will be affected. Protection of neighbourhoods will be the central consideration in crafting a sustainable decision. The current OCP was an important milestone in defining community land use goals.
3. Diversity and Inclusivity
I will strive to make sure that Salt Spring remains diverse and inclusive. I will try to ensure that young persons, working families and seniors can attend Trust meetings. I will look at innovative scheduling and locations to encourage wider public involvement. Wherever possible, I will meet with seniors, youth and young families to hear their concerns and proposals for change.
4. Fulford
As a trustee I will pursue the recommendations of the Fulford Study Group. The village's challenges can be turned into opportunities.
5. Promoting Economic Development
I encourage the development of cottage and light industry on Salt Spring by making optimal use of the almost 100 acres of zoned industrial land identified by the Industrial Land Task Force in their 2009 survey.
6. Affordable Housing
I believe that we should legalize secondary suites and cottages. We should use creative means to create more affordable housing like the successful Murakami Garden Apartments, which opened in 2009. We also need affordable housing for a range of income levels; local initiatives should be facilitated.
7. Accessible, Fair and Open
We need to overcome the fear and animosity on our island. My first priority is to restore civility and respect in discussions on land use in our community. I aim to improve the Trust's communication on Salt Spring. I will focus on providing timely information and explanations to reduce frustration for all my island constituents.
8. Cooperation with CRD
I intend to cooperate with the CRD director on solid and liquid waste issues, safeguarding our island's precious water, and providing green transportation options.
9. Riparian Areas Regulation
Most of us agree that our streams and watercourses should be protected and provincial law requires us to enact legislation to do this, as stated in this letter. My goal is to create regulations that are clear, fair and not unnecessarily difficult to comply with.
10. Ambassador for Saltspring
I will promote the arts and community events Pride Parade, Apple Festival, Lavender Festival, Fall Fair, Folk Club, ArtCraft, WinterCraft and the Saturday Market. I believe that we should all celebrate and share the diversity and charm of our beautiful island.
