The next city council could be asked to return fluoride to the city’s water supply. What is your position on this?
We’re holding a plebiscite on this so that we can understand what citizens want. My commitment is to follow the directive that citizens give me. I won’t override a Yes or No vote with my personal opinion.
Occupation:
Consultant
Political/volunteer experience:
Board Member of Wrestling Canada Lutte • Logistics Coordinator for Ask Her YYC • Mentor with Big Brothers, Big Sister of Calgary & Area • Canadian Olympic Committee Commission Member • 2016 Olympic Team Member, 2014 Commonwealth Games Medalist, 2014 World University Champion
What is your motivation for seeking a seat on city council?
Calgarians have been through a lot, but I see opportunity in adversity and I know our best days are still ahead. I will use my background in municipal policy, evidence-based approach and Olympic work ethic to write a next chapter for our city that is resilient, enterprising and community-focused.
Describe your leadership style:
I’m a perspective taker. I see a challenge from all sides and I appreciate different positions, even if I don’t agree with them. I use this skill to build trust and bring people together.
What do you consider the single most important issue facing Calgarians, and what should be done about it?
The municipal property tax system needs an overhaul to bring it into the 21st century. We keep moving tax burden around to different property tax classes with no regard for people’s ability to pay, or the fact that the world is going digital. We don’t need more money from the province, we need better tools.
What are the three most important issues in your ward, and how would you address them?
Green Line – In addition to being a strong champion for the project, I will prioritize Bus Rapid Transit up Centre Street, which will help us expedite the northern corridor planning process.
Pedestrian Safety – We need to address speeding and get more crosswalks in high-traffic pedestrian areas.
Do you support the city’s downtown revitalization strategy? Where should funding and programs be focused?
Yes. We need to focus on making downtown a 24/7 destination for tourism, culture, art, residential living and commercial opportunity. Office conversion incentives will be an important part of that formula, as well as strategic capital investments in entertainment infrastructure and public realm improvements.
What innovative project or job creation measure can you propose to aid Calgary’s post-COVID economic recovery?
We don’t need more programs. We need to provide tax stability to our non-residential sector who have seen wild fluctuations in property taxes.
What should city council do to keep young adults from leaving Calgary?
Young adults aren’t asking for a lot. Build a full-scale transit system so we can get around and transform our downtown into a happening place like you see in other major cities.
* All candidate Q&As have been edited for clarity and brevity.