What you think versus what’s popular with voters

We asked: If elected, are you prepared to stand up and say what you think about matters, or will you play to the largest vote-getting side?

Mayoral candidates: Andrew Jakubeit: As elected officials, we should vote on what our ethics, core values and life lessons have taught us. It is better to make decisive decisions, even if some disagree, than to not make any decision at all. This and previous councils have allowed the loud voices of the few to dictate direction. We have a culture in our community that complain, resist, protest and then love. Change is difficult for many . . . yes I will be bold.

Jukka Laurio: I do stand up and say what I think about matters, always have, always will, even if I start as a minority of one. I do not pander to special interest. A leader’s job is to have an idea, goal, destination and to take the people safely to it. If successful, the leader gets to keep his job. The people’s opinions and concerns are to be seriously considered, but if left to the largest vote-getting, we would have no taxes and free food, which would not be workable.

John Vassilaki: As can be seen by my record on city council, I always speak out for what is in the best interest for our taxpayers. If I become mayor, it will not change my attitude towards speaking out to inform city council of my opinions during council meeting whether they are in camera or in the public. I am not a fence sitter. I will always voice my opinions on behalf of the public.

Councillor candidates: Steve Boultbee: The question is “What does matter?” I speak to important matters and believe this is the largest vote-getting side. I need the like-minded to vote, and for that we have to stand up. Of importance is a.) Security b.) New economic activity through our college in the field of heath care c.) Getting people to see the social cost of the prison and how this will outstrip any monetary value that it brings.

Patrick Buchanan: What I like best about city council is councillors are not expected to follow party lines. My day job allows me the opportunity to listen to what is being said from the citizens young and old. I will stand for what I feel is right. Paula Cattani: Did not reply. Don Dumesnil: I was brought up to do what is right. I will be voicing and standing up for the matters that make sense, have a logical foundation and is fair to the progress of Penticton as a whole to include all age groups and demographics — plain and simple.

Ryan Foster: This question is a delightful example of James Miller’s sense of humour, and the funny thing about it is that both types of politician, the honest type and the “other” type, are going to give the same answer. That said, I have no interest in the politics of “special interests.” I am here to serve the people, and if that means going against the grain in city hall, so be it.

Garry Gratton: If a man has the courage of his convictions, he will always stand up for what he believes in rather than go with the flow of the majority simply to gain favour or votes. Stand up and be a leader. Accept the responsibilities. Move forward, onwards and upwards toward a better, more successful community, a place that welcomes all with open arms. Let’s be progressive. Reduce or eliminate roadblocks to business interests.

Brian Henningson: I will always stand up for what’s right and what is in the best interest of the taxpayers of Penticton.

Tim Hodgkinson: If there is one thing that I am proud of, it’s been to stand up for what I believe. This may not always be the most popular thing to do at the time, but it’s a civic, fiduciary and moral responsibility. As long as those opinions are built on cold, hard facts and you take the time to inform or educate people on the issues, they are always appreciative . . . even if they don’t agree with you.

Brian Horejsi: If the citizens and taxpayers are the largest vote-getting group, as opposed to special interests lobbying council for favoritism, I’m with the citizens. It is going to take a serious effort to get citizen-driven democracy, planning and decision-making back into city management and council.

Lynn Kelsey: Anyone who knows me will tell you that I stand up for what I believe in. I will always speak for the people even it is not the popular (or largest vote-getting side). I will get all the information from all the constituents affected and make the best decision I feel is right for Penticton as a whole. I will not be beholden to special-interest groups.

Helena Konanz: Look at my voting record and see that I’ve voted in favour of economic stimulation, job creation and smart growth when addressing issues before council. Most citizens in Penticton want these things, but when it comes to changes such as building multiple units for more affordable housing in their neighbourhood, or expanding a business in a residential area, there can be extreme pushback. I’ve held my ground, and my beliefs for the past three years.

David Korinetz: If you want people to know where you stand, then it’s a mistake to not speak your mind, even when everyone else seems to disagree with you. However, I would never want to force my way of thinking on the taxpayers unless I knew that they were in agreement. A councillor’s job is to represent the people who voted for them. I am very vocal about my ideas and beliefs.

Brent Madsen: If elected, it’s because the people voting already know that as a small business owner you must constantly stand up and say what you think. My views and the decisions I make are on display seven days of each week. The large suggestion box which I have installed at The Elite is just a start. Being downtown for 20 years means very little unless you are a very good listener.

Andre Martin: I believe I have already proved that by publishing my election material including one full page dedicated to where I stand on certain community issues. What I will also agree to do is support any decision council decides as a majority. I will do my very best to implement the decision. Teamwork is a must if we want to move ahead.

Doug Maxwell: I will say what I think and what citizens comment to me as their representative. I will be 69 years old next goaround, so my decisions will be for the good of the city and NOT for the next election!

Jenine Nicholas: I have participated in many social groups and have been actively involved in youth activities while raising my own children. I am a team player and look forward to the new city council team. First and foremost, as a mother who runs a tight ship, I am also not intimidated to share my opinion because my opinion may be reflective of the smallest of voices.

Kevin Noonan: I have always been the type of person to stand up for my convictions. If you stand for what is right, the end results tend to vindicate your decisions. In our society, the majority rules, but I always put maximum effort into explaining to people what I think is right and why.

Max Picton: I will absolutely stand up for what I believe in. This does not mean that I will not consult those affected by decisions for input, but I will not waver on what I believe to be the best thing for the community based on an attempted re-election. I do not desire to be a career politician; I desire to live in a vibrant and prosperous community that we can be proud of.

Vic Powell: I have been well known for speaking my mind. If elected, I will not hesitate to speak for the taxpayers of this city. I am running on honest and open leadership. That is what the people of this city will get from me.

Katie Robinson: I have a proven record of being fiercely independent with my decision-making, which is one of the reasons I do not accept any campaign contributions . . . no strings, and I was the lone councillor to voice my serious safety concerns over a music festival last summer despite the support of the chamber of commerce and others. I will continue to voice my concerns and those of our constituents wherever and whenever necessary on any issues.

Daryl Sanders: Absolutely. And not only what I think, but I want to hear the opinions of the people of Penticton and along with research brought forward make an educated vote. It’s not about what I want. It’s about what Penticton wants, and I’m not afraid to stand up and be that voice. I believe in an open line of communication via email, phone or in person with the people that should be making the decisions — the taxpayers of Penticton.

Tarik Sayeed: I will ALWAYS, ALWAYS stand up for who I am and what I believe is the best for Penticton. In my professional life, I am known for doing my research before offering an opinion. I ask the difficult questions, I listen and I strive for clear communications. These traits are why my supporters encouraged me to run, and I invite you to visit their comments at www.votetarik.ca.

Judy Sentes: In my six years on council, I have established myself as committed to doing my research, being a good listener and valuing a healthy debate in the process of decision-making. I have no hesitancy in taking responsibility for my action as a dedicated and honest councillor.

Debra Slater: I am not always the most popular girl at the dance because I say what I think . . . you might not like what you hear, but you can never say I am dishonest. I never have and I never will be one of the lambs being led to slaughter.

Campbell Watt: I have proven already through certain issues at the chamber and Downtown Penticton Association that I am very willing to make a stand on issues I believe in.

Thursday’s question: What suggestion can you offer for attracting a major employer to Penticton?