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ELECTION 2014: Candidate QandA with John Hannam

Candidate QandA with councillor candidate John Hannam
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John Hannam

John Hannam

Occupation: Farmer.

Background: I was born in Victoria, retired from 32 years teaching in Sooke District Public Schools, retired after 26 years as Canadian Naval Reserve Officer, obtained a BSc in Psychology, a Diploma in Elementary Education, a Masters in Educational Leadership and Administration, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Administration. I have lived in Central Saanich for the past 15 years on a 36 acre farm, harvesting hay and raising horses. I am married with a total of five natural and step children. I also have four grandchildren and one more on the way.

1.  Why are you running for Council?

I am running because I have both the education and the experience necessary to act collaboratively as a councillor in the best interests of the municipality.

Personally, I want to take part in making the best decisions for our community so it can prosper and then ensure that the priorities established are acted upon and become realities.

2.  What are your top three issues to tackle, if elected?

My top priorities are ensuring that a broader tax base is accomplished through business development within the OCP guidelines, developing municipal infrastructure improvements, especially around the ISMP document, and ensuring greater support to local farmers and the security of food production in our area.

3.  What kind of leadership will you bring to council?

True leadership requires one to be able to move through a number of approaches, depending upon the circumstances and needs of the group. My central leadership style is a democratic one, in which all the pertinent information is gathered for the group, then discussions and consultations follow ‘till a consensus is reached. Once objectives and plans are in place, one has to support and work with individuals and groups in meeting them within the timelines set.  Leadership also monitors and confirms that the objectives are met and the process is evaluated as to its effectiveness.

4.  What are your thoughts on industrial, residential and agricultural balance in Central Saanich?

The OCP establishes the specific areas for industrial, residential and agricultural activities. At the moment, it seems to be a fairly good mix. However, I think that specific industrial and commercial projects require greater encouragement and support within the municipality in order to establish themselves and add to the tax base.

5.  Do you think council should proceed with the proposed Maber Flats project?

I think that the Maber Flats project should go ahead as planned. This project has been recommended in engineering reports going back decades and was last covered in the ISMP, where I sat in as a committee advisor. Without such a storm water control measure, future area flooding won’t just be a problem for local farmers, but could have much greater affect on residential properties as well.