Former mayor Starr Winchester is running for a councillor seat on Courtenay city council."I enjoyed the 18 years I served on Courtenay council, and would be honoured to serve again," she said in a news release. "My No. 1 priority is fiscal responsibility, holding the line on taxes. Without major industry, we have a limited funding base in Courtenay; therefore, we must not lose sight of our mandate as a municipal council, which is to provide services such as water and sewer, garbage collection, roads, police and fire protection, parks, recreation and cultural facilities."Although there is often pressure put on municipal councils to get involved in social programs, these are projects that are usually the responsibility of other levels of government. Although some projects may be politically popular, we must stay focused on our mandate."The only way to keep taxes down is to keep spending down."I would like to address the issue of duplication of services here in the Comox Valley. We should be bringing our planning departments together, our fire services, our recreation and cultural services."Seniors are dear to my heart, and I’ve always considered them to be a vital part of our community. We must ensure they are provided with the amenities they so rightfully deserve."Youth are our future, and I have always been a strong supporter of youth activities and will continue to be."I was born and raised in the Comox Valley and am grateful to live in such a beautiful community. I have an extensive business background, having retired in 2000 after 32 years in the banking industry."I am proud of the many accomplishments of Courtenay council during my 18-year term. We did this by working together as a team."• • •Civic elections happen Nov. 19 for municipal councils, school boards regional districts and the Islands Trust. — Starr Winchester