There are plenty of choices for registered voters to make when it comes to choosing six councillors on Penticton Council heading into Saturday’s municipal election.
NowMedia reached out to all 24 candidates running to claim one of the six spots on Penticton Council. Many of the candidates did not respond, but the majority did.
We asked all candidates the same questions.
Here are the responses of Judy Sentes.
What do you feel is the most pressing issue facing the City of Penticton should you be elected to Council after the Oct. 20 general election?
“I believe that one of the most pressing issues is homelessness coupled with perceptions of an unsafe downtown area. The City's partnership with BC Housing creating more than 150 accommodations to be available in 2019, will be a great initiative to take people off the streets.
“Continuing with strategies of safety from more lighting downtown to hiring private security to patrol our downtown core, will significantly address the safety issues. But we must remain diligent and work in partnerships to be effective.”
What do you feel are your greatest assets as someone running for elected office?
“As a city Councillor for the past 10 years, I have gained a wealth of knowledge into the management of a municipality within a province where both legislation and a charter give guidelines. Prior to that I've been in business, managed a major child development centre, was a school board trustee and then chair of a school board, as well as a member of many organizations and on their respective boards of directors.”
Can you please list some of the priorities you believe the new Council should make a priority in the first six months following the election.
“The first major function of the new Council will be to establish the 2019 budget.The homelessness and safety issues require ongoing monitoring, along with the implementation of the Parks and Recreation Committee's recommendations and the completion of the Official Community Plan review. We need to continue efforts to improve and help grow local businesses while still making an effort to attract business to our community.”
What is, in your opinion, the best thing about calling Penticton home?
“Being one of only two cities in the world between two lakes, it's all about living in a democracy where people can enjoy freedom in a mild climate where there are many amenities.”
