Over 100 people braved torrential rain for Wendy Morin’s campaign launch at the Tin Town Café recently. Musicians Vivian and Steve Ruskin, Joey Clarkson, and Alannah Clark entertained the crowd as they enjoyed BBQed salmon and mingled.
“I’m pleased to introduce Wendy Morin to you this afternoon,” said Doug Hillian. “She’s principled and knowledgeable. She’ll bring a collaborative approach to council.”
Morin stressed that women are under-represented at all levels of government and that diverse voices are necessary on council. This point drew an enthusiastic response from the audience.
“I’ve lived in the Comox Valley all my life,” said Morin. “I was inspired to run to help improve quality of life for everyone, not just the few.” Morin plans to make government more accessible by creating outreach and participatory opportunities.
The diverse group of citizens in attendance raised a range of issues from more green space in the urban core to affordable housing units for all ages.
“I’m just so excited that Wendy is running for Courtenay Council!” enthused singer Joey Clarkson. “I can’t think of a more hard-working person for this role. Wendy is an incredible force in our community. When she’s elected, she’ll have the tools to do so much more! I encourage all of you to meet Wendy, ask about her views, and vote for her on October 20!”
A fierce advocate for urban forests and waterways, Morin champions buying locally, supporting green business and promoting practices that mitigate the impacts of climate change. She believes the city needs to implement sustainability practices, many of which have economic benefits.
Morin opposes the amendment put forward by 3L Developments to create a new settlement node. She respects the Regional Growth Strategy and the comprehensive process involved in creating it. She emphasizes that existing settlement nodes are not even close to capacity.
To address the critical housing shortage Morin supports working with developers on incentives such as inclusionary zoning, and utilizing provincial partnerships. She’d vote to ease restrictions on carriage houses and secondary suites, and supports increased density in the downtown core and live/work units.
Part of a new wave of candidates stepping up with 21st century life experiences and skills, Morin imagines a balance between growth and quality of life. She intends to build on the past successes of city council while offering new solutions to ongoing challenges.
