Response to LIRA flyer

A recent flyer from the Lasqueti Island Ratepayer's Association included the following:
"Trustee Peterson sits on four committees and ran for Chair of the Trust which could suggest he is more committed to policies of the Trust than he is addressing issues on the island."

Contrary to the suggestion offered by LIRA's flyer, sitting on committees gives trustees a voice on proposals before they even go to Trust Council for decision, opportunities to propose amendments, and a solid background on the information that is relevant to the debate when proposals eventually reach the Council table for decision. 

Committee membership enhances the influence of individual trustees in shaping decisions that can affect all of the islands in the Trust Area. This means that the interests of their islands can receive more consideration, rather than less, when their trustee participates in these bodies. 

Trust-wide policies and bylaws have implications for all of us, and I have consistently opposed those that I think infringe on our autonomy, and proposed amendments which preserve it, where possible. Sometimes I have been successful in influencing the vote in the way I think is best for Lasqueti, and sometimes I haven't. 

By participating on committees, I have been able to voice concerns, oppose policies I think are detrimental to our autonomy, and advance amendments to reflect those concerns. To not participate would be to miss opportunities to speak to issues important to our community. 

I am always interested in hearing the views of community members, and answering your questions. 

Feel free to reach out if you'd like to discuss this, or any issue. Due to campaign rules, please use my personal email timpeterson24 [at] yahoo [dot] com or 250-607-7094
No matter who you support in the coming election, your vote is important. Vote at the advance poll October 7, or the General Election October 17. 
-Tim