[We sent your questions to all the Election 2013 candidates. We are posting their unedited responses in the order that they’re received. – Ed.]
1. In the context of our City’s growth, how will you support the development of existing communities as opposed to new neighbourhoods?
I would propose that Council look and make changes to the municipal development plan. I will stress the need for infill and densification in our mature neighbourhoods. Whether that is providing initiatives for professionals to build businesses or for young families looking for mixed affordable housing. I think with the closure for the downtown airport, this will and can provide endless opportunities for the cities growth upwards rather than outwards. This was because of height restrictions. I think moving forward we have great opportunities for infill.
2. How will you support independent locally-owned businesses in Edmonton?
I will advocate and demonstrate my support by being active with local businesses in any way I can. I will stress the importance for programs to help business remain competitive and keeping their doors open.
3. How will you support local food and urban agriculture in Edmonton?
With changes and alterations to the municipal development plan and the opportunity to build upward rather than outward- this will ensure ample area for land for agriculture that this City ever so needs.
4. How will you address Indigenous Edmontonians’ history and needs?
In the upcoming years with a new council, I would stress the needed for joint ventures with our aboriginal people’s. I’m open to the needs of our people and supporting their voice. Or people’s are a huge historic component in our city and we must join together to build a better Edmonton
5. How do you envision the public transit system evolution?
I vision everyone in any part of the City, no matter affordability our citizens will be able to access any place they need to get to via LRT. And I will fight for that.
6. What will you do to better engage post-secondary research / students / faculty with the rest of the community?
I value education and understand the value in research, our children and school, whether public, catholic, post secondary or any other means of education. I know the City can do more in collaboration with our institutions to better serve research and innovation.
7. What is the biggest challenge your Ward faces? What solutions would you seek?
I would declare that urban sprawl, crime, homelessness and infrastructure are all issues in our ward. But with challenges come great opportunity and I’m dedicated to our communities and I believe we can collaborate and consult with each other to ensure our issues are dealt with. I would propose that revisiting the municipal development plan to ensure infill rather than sprawl, provide more affordable housing for citizens transitioning from emergency shelters back to the community. That way they can give back to our community. Infrastructure is a core service so common sense would be to make sure we are covering those costs where they’re needed.
8. How can our readers learn more about your platform, contact you with questions or concerns, or get involved in your campaign?
My platform will be updated this week, stay tuned for updates. Please visit www.erinnorthey.com. Or please call me at 780 991 7346