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First Comox mayoral candidate steps forward

Tom Diamond hopes to replace the departing Paul Ives as Comox mayor
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Tom Diamond has announced his intention to run for mayor of Comox in the upcoming municipal election, Oct. 20, 2018.

With Paul Ives announcing the end of his tenure, Comox voters will elect a new mayor on Oct. 20.

Tom Diamond, a newcomer to the Comox political scene, has announced his mayoral intentions, becoming the first person to declare candidacy for the elected position.

The following is a submitted press release.

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Hi! My name is Tom Diamond and I want to be your new mayor in Comox.

Why? I have a son and I want him to have more opportunities for well-paid jobs, affordable homes, excellent education, safe neighbourhoods, fantastic recreation, and a vibrant town he can proudly call home. We have a great town now that can be even greater, and more affordable, for our children and grandchildren.

How do we get there? We need a practical vision. Similar to Courtenay in 2016, I want to launch a visioning process that welcomes public input and makes clear decisions for land use, zoning, economic growth, and many other critical issues for decades to come. If we know exactly where we are headed, then we can approve the right development permits in days instead of years, protect against disastrous urban sprawl, and build the positive future we want.

Why me? In his outgoing announcement, respected Mayor Paul Ives said it is time for “new blood” on the Comox council. I can deliver a new and positive change for Comox, backed by a great deal of leadership experience.

I have trained and advised leaders in more than 100 organizations, including military groups across the U.S. Navy, hospitals in Canada and the U.S., and the Calgary Regional Health Authority. I helped insurance companies, retail businesses, international teacher recruitment and other small businesses. I have consulted with unionized organizations, private companies and non-profit boards. I have directed two university programs and run a small business with my wife, helping people improve brain function, for the past eight years in Comox.

I know what it takes to organize, manage and inspire people to make great ideas come true. I have a vision and I want to inspire you to join me in revitalizing Comox.

My platform in brief:

Taxes: cut property taxes in half.

Economy: double town revenues with planned growth and strategic partnerships.

Jobs: attract new industries to create hundreds of new jobs.

Affordability: improve walk-ability with multi-use buildings for living, working and shopping.

Local business: create new small business incentives and development resources.

Village promenade: open a pedestrian-only street with bustling shops and restaurants.

Public market: start a Granville Island-style farmers’ market.

Seaside boardwalk: provide more public access to walking, biking and scooters by the sea.

Connect with me now at www.mayortom.ca

Take the poll on future ideas for Comox. Post on my blog and Facebook page. Send me your questions and hopes. When you see me around Comox, talk to me, and I will listen with an open mind and heart. Invite me to speak to your group—churches, clubs, political groups, Rotary, sports, etc. Consider running for Comox council. We need more leaders with a common passion and vision for change.

This is a change year: new candidates are stepping up all over the Valley. Get involved now, election day is Oct. 20. Mark it in your calendar, make sure you are registered and vote this fall. I hope to hear from you soon!

–Submitted by Tom Diamond