Vanderhoof Councillor candidates voiced their opinions Tuesday, Oct. 28 at the All Candidates Forum.
Approximately 100 residents came to the event and were given the option to submit written questions. Any left unanswered by the end of the night were later addressed online on the Vanderhoof Municipal Election 2014 Facebook page.
All candidates were present except for John Murphy who was not in attendance due to work commitments.
The evening started with opening comments which highlighted the reason each councillor decided to run for the position. Answers throughout the night were reflective of their overall platforms.
Ken Young spoke about his work as NVSS’s principal and how he hopes to continue his work with council on the pool, youth recreation and supporting and strengthening relationships with aboriginal communities and businesses.
Michelle Roberge humbly made note of her extensive volunteer work and involvement in numerous community organizations and how she feels she would be of benefit as a council member since she is already well informed about the community.
Kevin Moutray talked about his want to continue being councillor and his affinity to the community through his commendable work with multiple organizations such as the Nechako Watershed Alliance, NVSAR, and the Exhibition Society to name a few. He made special mention to say he will not be putting signs up because he feels it should be a waste-free campaign.
Darren Carpenter confidently spoke of his strong roots in Vanderhoof and how if elected he will continue to be a dedicated councillor who fought for things like the soccer field expansion.
Steve Little was short and sweet in delivery, making strong mention of his work for the pool and how he will continue to fight for what he started.
Brian Frenkel’s speech highlighted that Vanderhoof’s greatest wealth is ‘our children’ and how his recent claim to grand-fatherhood has motivated reflection and new perspective.
Spencer Siemens advocated himself as a voice for youth in Vanderhoof for he was born and raised in the community and continues to be a role model, refereeing various sports and having held the position of chamber manager for the past 18 months.
The night overall was a clean debate. No one used their rebuttal cards and a general consensus was that a pool should be of upmost priority along with attracting new business to town. All residents 18 and up are encouraged to vote on Nov. 15 with polls open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the District of Vanderhoof and Cluculz Lake Firehall.