Ryan Windsor
Occupation: General Manager at de Vine Vineyards.
Background:
Served as a councillor in the District of Central Saanich.
1. Why are you running for Mayor?
I believe Central Saanich is an amazing place to raise a family. I have learned the importance of the role of mayor and council to make decisions for the community that are well-informed by professionals and most critically, the public. I regularly attended council before being elected and I often saw the opportunity to engage residents and local businesses missed. I also saw examples of how proactive engagement can be done well. Over the past year and a half I have been fortunate to work with Mayor Alastair Bryson. He has been a good chair and my goal in running for mayor is to set a tone at the council table that encourages any person, no matter how small the issue, to come forward with their comments or concerns to be heard before a council that listens respectfully and responds if and when action is required.
2. What are your top three issues to tackle, if elected?
Increasing our long-term savings while managing our aging infrastructure in a fiscally responsible manner.
Dealing with derelict boats and pollution on land and in Brentwood Bay that are hampering the return of salmon to the Saanich Inlet.
Working on attainable housing options for [workers and their] families through the housing roundtable that has formed in the three Peninsula municipalities.
3. What kind of leadership will you bring to council?
I have pledged to make council a place where you can bring any question, comment or raise any issue to be heard and responded to in a respectful manner. I will provide leadership on council by visiting your neighbourhoods to listen and share information with you about important matters and will encourage council to do the same. I also pledge to maintain collaboration and communication between all members of staff and council.
4. What are your thoughts on industrial, residential and agricultural balance in Central Saanich?
A strong community has a good balance between industrial, residential and agricultural planning. Central Saanich is fortunate to have a solid framework in our official community plan. I believe it is important to strengthen all three in our community within the guidelines set out in our Community Plan. We need to diversify some of our housing options and properties for business to meet the needs of the community, while always paying attention to environmental impacts and livability.
5. Do you think council should proceed with the proposed Maber Flats project?
As I am a neighbour of the proposed property and potentially subject to flooding in a 10 or 100 year flood. I have stepped away from council discussion during this process.
Given any potential impacts on my property I feel it is important to refrain from commenting on this project. I note that council is always able to make decisions in the absence of a council member on any issue.