These next four years are critical for Canmore. Under the pressure of COVID, complex issues such as affordable housing, sustainable development, livability, climate change and truth and reconciliation are now front and centre. So, why vote for me?
Simply put, life experience.
I have a mechanical engineering degree and worked for five years in product design. While I no longer work in industry, the tools stay with me. Everyday I apply my engineering mindset to analyze situations, gather data and solve complex problems.
As a downtown business owner (The Yoga Lounge), I’ve had to pivot quickly to survive the ongoing pandemic. We’ve made bold decisions, changed our business model and embraced unfamiliar technology – all in the name of service and holding a community together. Being on Main Street, I have an innate sense of how important the downtown core is to Canmore’s identity and the struggle businesses face.
With two young daughters I know firsthand the current challenges young families face here. Too often we’ve seen our daughter’s friendships end because of affordability and families moving away. Yes, Canmore is an amazing place to live – but it’s not easy.
I’m also a reluctant activist. In 2017 I started the website Bow Valley Engage to help educate and inspire community involvement. Since then, it has blossomed into a powerful resource and empowered citizens to raise their voices for what matters to them. Issues such as environmental protection, wildlife corridors, sustainable development and social justice are at the forefront of our community’s consciousness.
In many ways, the obstacles Canmore faces are similar to other desirable places around the world. But the passion, intelligence and caring of our citizens is an outlier. Let’s elect a council willing to empower our community’s energy and explore bold ideas. This Monday Oct 18th, 2021, I would love your support.
It would be an honour to serve,
Jeff