For Maple Ridge council
• Name: Kiersten Duncan.
• Residence: Maple Ridge.
• Occupation/education: Lifeguard and outdoor education instructor; urban development and environmental science at the University of the Fraser Valley.
• Volunteer work: volunteer coordinator in the community for over five years and have worked with multiple festivals, including Earth Day, Country Fest, Ghost Ridge and GETI Fest, as well as Golden Ears Gogos, Stephen Lewis Foundation, Grandmothers in Africa.
• Who do you support for mayor: yet to decide.
Question: Please provide an example of what you have done that qualifies you for council.
Answer: I’m an active volunteer in the community, supervisor in recreation, and serve on numerous boards and committees. I study urban development and environmental science to strengthen my knowledge on sustainable development practices and look forward to bringing my experience facilitating team building and leadership training to help council work together.
Q: Who is funding your campaign?
A: Local residents who want to see diversity and better representation for young families on council. I am also very appreciative of a donation from CUPE.
Q: What makes you stand out from other candidates?
A: I am confident I will strengthen our staff team and bring a diverse, fresh way of thinking to city council. I am also the only candidate to submit a criminal record check for transparency and accountability.
Q: How do you see the City of Maple Ridge developing in the next 10 years?
A: With community plans, we can ensure residents have the services and infrastructure needed to support complete, sustainable neighbourhoods. Improved safety from equipping outdoor swimming areas with ring buoys to prevent drownings and designating areas for emergency cell reception.
Q: What will be your top priority if elected to Maple Ridge council?
A: Better consultation with residents during the planning stages of local community area plans to ensure we maintain the rich character of our communities into the future. Strong focus on eco-tourism and encouraging development in the downtown core to expand our tax base creating good sustainable jobs that support local businesses.