Shelly Donaldson
Website: shellydonaldson.org
Are you associated with or running as part of a slate? If so, which one?
No
Do you live in the municipality where you are running, and if so, for how long? If not, what is your connection to that community?
Yes, 33 years
What is your occupation, and for how long?
Retired 27 years
Tell us about your previous elected and/or community experience.
Hands-on farmer of 30 years and broad-based community service volunteer for over 25 years. This includes regular attendance and participation at Council and committee meetings as well as Budget Workshops. Member of Healthy Communities Advisory Committee, President of Metchosin Equestrian Society, long standing past member of Scouts Canada, organize the annual Metchosin Remembrance Day March, participated in a thorough review/rewrite of Metchosin Animal Control Bylaw #421, proactive volunteer of “Bring Back our Calls” advocacy group for First Responders. Strong advocate and researcher to protect the “greenspace/bufferlands” neighbors and environment from encroachment of urban sprawl.
Why are you running? What’s your motivation?
My passion for Civic Governance and years of community volunteering have equipped me with knowledge and experience that will be valuable as a member of Council.
What are your top three issues?
Support good governance with respect to mutual respect for office:
· Promoting community-based problem solving and increased transparency of municipal issues.
· Bylaw Enforcement with fair process for all residents including updating specific bylaws to better reflect the needs of the community.
Promote fiscal responsibility in strategic financial decisions:
· Create a district wide Climate Action Plan, Agriculture Plan and Transportation Plan to protect our evolving community.
· Reassess expenses and investment of road infrastructure and safe passage.
· Establish a sustainable business model for the old Metchosin School site.
Preserve Greenspaces and bufferlands for future generations:
· Uphold the Metchosin Official Community Plan as a guiding document supporting our rural alternative.
What’s your vision for your community in 25 years?
Metchosin be a vibrant rural community to reside in and visit with a high calibre model of responsible land stewardship supporting food security and the health and wellbeing of residents.
What’s one “big idea” you have for your community?
Education of “health and well-being” encompassing sound Climate Action strategies involving environmental stewardship. I have researched the benefits of bringing people together to establish a Community Garden as a place of gathering and learning to nourish ourselves through nature. A place to grow mentally and physically embracing natures offerings. Understanding soil science, growing food year-round, cultivate medicinal plantings, saving seeds with native and heritage offerings. A Community Garden can be a springboard for self-sufficiency of food supply, future farming, increased understanding of food sources and community wellness.
