Experience

Drawing On Over 15 Years of Public Service In Richmond & the Lower Mainland

When working for you as Richmond Mayor and advocating for the City, I have drawn on my extensive experience. For instance:

I have learned that there are many reasons why Richmond is such a great city in which to live and work.
We all want a safe, healthy, balanced and active community.
Much of our success results from our community spirit and working together.
We have the best volunteer community which immeasurably improves the quality of life for others.

I recognize the importance of the Pacific Rim to our local economy.
Our City has extensive international connections which I have helped to expand.
We have extended Friendship City status to two Chinese cities while opening many doors for business and cultural opportunities.

When I was a Councillor, I was immersed in the City’s history and heritage.
When I was a lawyer, I learned how to implement strategies and effectively negotiate. This was especially important when advocating for the Oval, the Olympics and the Canada Line.
As a long-time Richmond resident, I have learned how fortunate we are to live in a City with such abundant resources.
As a long-time Richmond volunteer, I continue to see the significant contribution volunteers give to making Richmond a better city for all.

I have served on numerous Metro committees for over 10 years.
In particular, my years as the Chair of the Finance Committee have alerted me to the significant potential increases in costs arising from the need for important new infrastructure.
Financial restraint, public consultation and partnering with senior governments will be important to the region and the individual cities as we meet future challenges.

In the past, I have taken a lead role as a Director and Chair of the Board.
I worked hard to help make the Canada Line a reality while enhancing public transportation throughout Richmond.
More recently, as a member of Translink’s Council of Mayors, I have advocated for reasonable and sustainable long-term funding strategies to meet our ongoing transportation requirements.

Through the Municipal Finance Authority, cities in BC borrow money for their infrastructure initiatives. I have helped these cities obtain cost-effective capital financing for important projects. If we keep pace with infrastructure requirements, all cities will gain.