My name is Jill Spearn and I’m running for the position of Mayor in Rossland. I have been a City Councillor for three terms, 9 years, as well as working as a teacher for the last 30 years, including school representative to the local union. I have lived in Rossland permanently for the last 34 years, having raised my family here. I have been involved with politics essentially since public school, and have always endeavored to be the representative voice for community.
I am seeking the Mayoral position because I know I can be an effective member of the Council, bringing experience, dedicated work ethic and the skills to efficiently get the business done on behalf of the citizens of Rossland.
People expect that their government acts responsibly on their behalf and I intend to do exactly that by changing and improving the ‘communications’ between Council and the community, for greater citizen awareness. One part of that is to respect the community’s concern around the Delegation Bylaw. In house as well, we need to continue to improve financial and corporate culture to achieve excellence and this may include reorganization for greater efficiencies.
If elected Mayor, I look forward to working hard to make the regional relationships a priority, including supporting a feasibility plan that looks at a ‘Regional Municipality,’ if it benefits all stakeholders.
I feel strongly that the time is right for the Lower Columbia region to thrive by creating economic synergies, that will allow all taxpayers to get the best value for money. Having said that, the issue going back, that needs to be fixed, is the Regional Recreation Service and the use of the Aquatic Centre, which is waiting to be ‘potentially’ resolved.
I’d really like to see an amicable and financially sound solution for our citizens, contributing a ‘fair share’ in order that the facility is being used to capacity by the region.
I sincerely hope that I have your vote because I am the right ‘fit’ for Mayor of Rossland!