Long-time councillor Kate Marsh is seeking re-election on North Cowichan council.
She said focusing growth makes the municipality more resilient, protects nature in all her forms, and provides better protection of critical watersheds and land for food security.
Marsh said it also helps affordability, and is a form of reconciliation with First Nations and the ecosystems upon whose health all life depends.
“As Indigenous people have always known, everything is connected,” she said.
“To keep the natural places we have, we must focus human growth — for our enjoyment and so other species do more than survive — but once again thrive. North Cowichan has fabulous assets; unequaled public forests, a network of trails, 40 kms of oceanfront, two rivers, streams and creeks, several lakes, all habitat. And land for food security, local entrepreneurs and caring, involved citizens. Where we grow must serve them all.”
Marsh said that when people work, hire, eat, shop and recreate in the Valley, dollars are kept circulating between them.
“A local circular economy creates jobs and businesses, reduces waste and contributes to needed infrastructure,” she said.
“It is a social and economic investment in our future. Increased food production by local growers and makers creates less dependence on supply chains.”
Marsh said if re-elected, she will continue to encourage a local economy, local jobs, livable wages, local innovative agriculture and local businesses.
She said she would press for the province’s support for citizens with substance-use disorders, on the opioid crisis and on increasing crime and public disturbance.
“We need B.C. to step up on these issues and the healthcare crisis,” Marsh said.
“We need innovative ways to meet housing needs, adapt to a changing climate and protect the biodiversity we all depend on.”
Check out Reelectkate.weebly.com, katemarsh@shaw.ca, @Marsh_Kate on Twitter and the Facebook site Kate Marsh Councillor and Facebook page kate_marsh.