David Graham and Tony Law will again represent Denman and Hornby islands respectively on the Islands Trust council.
Graham topped the polls with 302 votes in Saturday's election to earn a third term on the Islands Trust council. Laura Busheikin took the other Denman seat with 245 ballots. She was followed in voting by David Critchley (167), Bill Engleson (84), Laura Pope (77) and Kathy Dunster (62).
Law was tops among Hornby candidates with 273 votes, 69 ahead of runner-up and new trustee Alex Allen with 204 votes. In a tight five-man race, incumbent Fred Hunt finished with 199, William Thomas earned 188 and Ron Emerson had 150 votes.
Law, who is on his sixth term, sought re-election largely because of land-use bylaws and the Hornby Community Plan. He is particularly interested in housing and economic opportunities — the targeted issues for updating the plan.
Law said Hornby residents who have trouble finding housing at times end up on the street in other parts of the Comox Valley, and vice-versa.
"It's a very challenging issue because for young people and members of the workforce it's very hard to get affordable and stable housing in this community," said Law, who sat on the district-wide housing and homelessness standing committee. "We need young people to keep the community vital and alive."
He said the number of year-round rentals has decreased significantly on Hornby. In terms of buying into the market, Law notes non-waterfront properties have gone up 135 per cent in the past census period while incomes have increased just six per cent.
"So there's a growing gap between what people can earn on the island and affordability of getting into the real estate market," Law said, noting the formation of a community land trust that received a 20-acre donation of land.
"We're expecting a rezoning proposal to come before the local trust committee. They'll be looking at having zoning to allow for probably up to 30 homes. That will be an important initiative that will provide some year-round housing for established residents."
Trustees will serve three-year terms. The Islands Trust council meets Dec. 6 in Victoria.
Denman Islands Trust:
e-David Graham 302
e-Laura Busheikin 245
David Critchley 167
Bill Engleson 84
Laura Pope 77
Kathy Dunster 62
Hornby Islands Trust:
e-Tony Law 273
e-Alex Allen 204
Fred Hunt 199
William Thomas 188
Ron Emerson 150
reporter@comoxvalleyrecord.com