For Maple Ridge council
• Name: Craig Speirs.
• Residence: Maple Ridge, 41 years.
• Occupation/education: retired, 34 years with Liquor Distribution Board.
• Volunteer work: B.C. Children’s Hospital fundraising chair; Ridge Meadows Recycling Society board member; CEED Centre vice-president; Compassionate Friends, grief self-help group for parents; Community Heritage Commission, Haney Farmers Market; Maple Ridge Agricultural Committee; Sensible B.C.
• Who do you support for mayor: Ernie Daykin
Question: Please provide an example of what you have done that qualifies you for council.
Answer: I served on council from 1999 to 2011. I know how the system works and how to get the most from it. I know the players: politicians, staff, community activists and volunteers. My hard-won experience will be critical as we build a more efficient community.
Q: Who is funding your campaign?
A: My campaign will be mostly self-funded. I won’t accept money from developers or unions. Every donation comes with the caveat that if it creates a conflict of interest, in my mind, on any issue, I will leave the room.
Q: What makes you stand out from other candidates?
A: I have fought the fight time and again and have come back for more. I get involved in issues that need my support, especially around social issues and civil rights. I have also shown the ability to move on after an issue has been voted on. Council has spent much of the past three years stuck on issues and personalities.
Q: How do you see the City of Maple Ridge developing in the next 10 years?
A: First, a sprawl review, then the next 10 years should be spent growing in ways that are easier to service and cheaper to run so we can lower taxes while maintaining a high level of services. Higher value industrial and commercial development to enrich our local economy is necessary.
Q: What will be your top priority if elected to Maple Ridge council?
A: Review all financial information, development in progress, and the capital plan, and confirm through our business planning process next year’s agenda. I would like to review area plans for Silver Valley and Albion, and finish one for Hammond.