I love where we live and ask to represent Puntledge Black Creek as Area C Director on the Regional District Board.
As a professional chartered accountant I have much to offer; needed financial prudence and oversight, and promoting transparent governance practices. I am an experienced, strategic long-term thinker.
I value of our rural lifestyle and vow to protect and enhance it. We need to preserve this lifestyle and agricultural base for generations to come while paying attention to the rural/urban interface that adds pressure to long term land use planning. I will ask the tough questions that are needed to steer decision-making on growth and oversee the responsible spending of your taxes.
We moved to the Comox Valley in 1995. My many roles include CFO for Mount Washington Resort, founding member of Shelter Point Distillery, and long-time president and chairman of Vancouver Island MusicFest. I am treasurer of Strathcona Sunrise Rotary Club, served on the boards of the Comox Valley Airport Commission, the Comox Valley Economic Development Society, and as governor at Vancouver Island University.
With unparalleled outdoor recreation, cultural pursuits, natural beauty, safe, clean communities and a strong agricultural sector, we need to be aware that many Canadians will be moving here for many years to come. This puts increased stress on our infrastructure. How do we manage that growth while maintaining all that makes the Comox Valley so unique in the first place?
I will have a regional view to infrastructure spending as we grow, fostering better collaboration within and throughout all levels of local government. As CFO for Mount Washington I was responsible for planning and development; helping draft its first Local Area Plan. I’ve acted as agent for other development applications including Saratoga Beach Resort, so I know firsthand the complexities of regional growth management.
The CVRD needs to be more responsive and customer friendly regarding requests, applications and setting realistic time lines. Communication needs to be clear and constructively consultive. Bylaw changes should not surprise and confuse those affected. Having been on the other side of the fence I feel I can add value to these processes.
My slate is clear to focus on the needs of the CVRD and ask for your vote. Please contact me at 250-792-2121 or email me at jay.oddleifson@shaw.ca.
To learn more please visit my website - www.jayoddleifson.ca