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Standing for a seat in Central Saanich

Calling it “the worst kept secret on the Peninsula” Bob Thompson officially declared his candidacy for the mayor’s seat in Central Saanich.

Calling it “the worst kept secret on the Peninsula” Bob Thompson officially declared his candidacy for the mayor’s seat in Central Saanich.

Although the race is still months away — voters will go to the polls on Nov. 19 — Thompson said he is ready to declare his intentions and get on the campaign trail.

“The style of campaign I want to do is get the word out early. I have been talking to people — yes the rumour is true — I want to have an independent campaign on a small scale; slate-free. I have no plans to be part of a slate or be backed by any organization. This is a foot-leather campaign with no billboards, just an opportunity to talk to people and hear what they have to say in terms of where the community should go,” he said.

Thompson said he is concerned about keeping the unity in the community. “I see a lot of emotion, a lot of anger from some people in the community,” he said. “I also see some positive opportunities for where the community might go.”

Thompson has experience as a municipal councillor. He was on Central Saanich council from 1993 to 1996, then again from 2002 to 2008. “I enjoy the process, I enjoy the decision making. I’m still involved as the chair of the APC (Advisory Planning Commission) — I’m the type of guy who likes to be in charge,” he said.

He wants to see the district be more proactive as far as agriculture goes. “Agriculture is dear to my heart — they’re implementing a plan in North Saanich now … I like the aggressive approach they’re taking. I like that they are taking taxpayers money and investing it in supporting agriculture — one of the best ways of protecting agricultural land is making it profitable for people who are farming,” he said.

Thompson said he enjoys “getting things done” in the community. “I’m not a political wonk. I recognize the Official Community Plan and I recognize the Regional Growth Strategy and I will work within that — certainly that part is challenging,” he said.

He calls himself a problem solver, “the kind that liked math homework as a kid … I always found it stimulating to deal with problems and find solutions … I’d like to spend less time talking and more time doing.”