By Chuck Poulsen Sunday, October 26
The word “sustainability” got a workout Saturday as about two dozen candidates for Kelowna council and two for mayor spoke at a forum organized by several green groups. About 100 people attended the Okanagan College forum entitled “How Green is Your Vote, Kelowna?”
Everyone agreed that green is good.
Here is a sampling of their comments:
Matthew Reed promised to “lead the way” on both the environment and economy.
Dorothee Birker said a green agenda is one of the key issues in the race.
Mo Rajabally, sporting a bright green shirt, said he was one of the first people to be concerned about energy efficiency.
Donald Forbes said protecting and preserving the environment is a major issue in the campaign.
Toby Pike said he has a proven record in resource management.
Shelley Nicholl said she was not an expert in sustainability, but she is “willing to listen and learn.”
Gunnar Forsstrom said he will “keep the green agenda on the political agenda.”
Kevin Craig said there are many green experts in Kelowna and he would reach out for their expertise.
Charlie Hodge said he has had a lifetime commitment to the environment and “I walk the walk.”
Robert Hobson said he has been pushing for a strong environmental and parks agenda during his 20 years on council.
John Marshall said he envisions the building of green homes in the future of Kelowna.
Mark Thompson noted that he drives a hybrid car.
Michelle Rule said that as a councillor she was part of Kelowna being one of the first cities to sign the B.C. Climate Change Action Plan.
Janice Henry noted that she has built geo-thermal heating and air conditioning into her house.
Angela Reid mentioned several green initiatives she has worked on in Kelowna and that her businesses focus is on renewable energy.
Joe Gates said he has been “inspired” by what he has seen in methods other countries have used to deal with environmental issues.
Murli Pendharker said his philosophy of life requires “ethical” decisions.
Luke Stack said he has been impressed with how many developers have brought green projects before council.
John Zeger noted that in the last campaign he ran as part of the Action for a Sustainable Kelowna group.
John Manton said he would work toward immediate decisions that will “save a ton of water.”
Lisa Simone said “sustainability isn‘t an issue, it‘s a lifestyle and a choice.”
Bill Vaughn noted that he set up the first recycling program at Kelowna General Hospital.
Graeme James said sustainability encompasses everything and that “we need to educate the public.”
Perry Mack said he has “a really big composter” at home and uses no pesticides on his lawn or garden.
Mayor Sharon Shepherd said that under her term, Kelowna has begun to be identified as a model city.
Kim Ouellette, mayoral candidate, said she wants to make Kelowna a centre for renewable energy development.
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