Now the election is over.........

I would like to thank all those who supported me in this election and though unsuccessful in returning to Vernon City Council I remain optimistic.
I was impressed with the quality and depth of commitment of the large field candidates. It was a pleasure to meet these folks and get to know them a little bit. I get the feeling they will continue in their commitment to the betterment of our community. To those who were successful I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes. Our new council will have balance of old and new which I hope will lead to good governance. Putting your name in the hat takes a great deal of courage. To those who unsuccessful best wishes and I hope that you found the experience of running for office as rewarding as I did. All the best in the future.
Lastly I was very pleased with passing of the Cultural Center referendum. The vision of the few and the wisdom of the many will be praised for years to come. Cheers Shawn

Chamber of Commerce question answered belatedly Mea Culpa

1. With recent counts, we understand there are approximately 150 homeless people on the streets of Vernon. There are many organizations and resources currently dedicated to these displaced individuals. We know that you will be asked a lot about homelessness in Vernon, however If elected, we want to know what is your plan for the remaining 42,000 residents of Vernon?       Vernon’s demographic is diverse. I believe that Vernon’s OCP reflects the cities’ commitment to address the needs of all its residents. The challenge for the City of Vernon is to balance limited resources against the demands for those resources. I believe that a well-run and cared for city is of benefit to our residents. Returning to the principles of the OCP a wise administration and an informed city council will find such a balance and be able to serve all the residents of Vernon. I would like to part of such a council. Please vote for Shawn Lee for Vernon City Council.

Vernon Chamber of Commerce question belately

1. If elected what would you do to help encourage outside investment into Vernon?

I believe a well-run city is naturally attractive to outside investment. I believe that our relatively low multiplier is attractive to the new entrepreneur. If the Official Community plan is consistently applied it will create some assurance to outside investment. If our economic development plan is actively and enthusiastically pursued it will yield results.

I think Vernon must always remember that we are part of a regional district. I believe that we must cooperate with our neighbours who have the land we lack available for light industry, remembering; “A rising tide raises all ships”. Please vote for Shawn Lee for Vernon City Council.

Somebody was paying attention...

https://www.vernonmorningstar.com/municipal-election/vernon-council-candidate-forum-draws-400

Chamber of Commerce question answered belated- Mea Culpa

1. Business is impacted by construction and infrastructure improvements during the summer season. We know the improvements are important for the future of Vernon. How would you help business minimize the lasting impact due to business lost from ongoing construction occurring directly in front of their business?

I would support efforts to ensure projects are finished in a timely manner. Contracts need to provide for some sort of financial consequence for delays due to the contractor. Such penalties could perhaps be used to mitigate the disruption to effected businesses. I am not sure of the legality of this suggestion but maybe some sort of tax break could be offered to effected businesses during the tax year of the infrastructure renewal. I would support efforts to coordinate operations as to minimize disruption and maintain access. I would support efforts to ensure the availability of BC Hydro crews as to minimize backtracking and delays. Please vote Shawn Lee for Vernon City Council.

Questions from the Chamber of Commerce-belatedly Mea Culpa

 With the increase of young families and young professional moving to Vernon, what are your plans to support this growing young population?

I would support efforts to insure that our shared recreational facilities are safe and well maintained.

I would support efforts to work with SD#22 to ensure school grounds and approaches are safe and well maintained.

I would support efforts to maintain and expand alternative transportation routes such as trails and bike paths.

I would support the ongoing implementation of Vernon’s official community Plan.

Congestion on Highway 97 at 43 ave.

|While driving back from a trip to Armstrong we forgot and took Highway 97 and ran into the traffic congestion chronically associated with the highway's intersection with 43th ave. Most Vernonites know to avoid this pinch point at busy times. Since this one of the cities major traffic intersections it is busy most of the time.
I think that it not good for our city to have traffic backed up both north and south from these lights for blocks and blocks. Vehicles magazined in this way not only creates frustration but the lack of smooth flow in itself is a safety hazard. What can be done?
For years I have maintained (usually by ranting in my automobile) that this intersection needs a major redesign.While three approaches have right hand turn lanes they are to short to accommodate the numbers willing to use them. This deficiency contributes to the congestion.Traffic from North has no right hand turn lane at all at the junction creating traffic back up past the entrance to the shopping center. At busy times it is only by the good will of other motorists that one is able to enter or exit either to the right or to the left. Even their welcomed courtesy unintentionally contributes to the unsafe conditions.
We are about to elect a new city Council of which I would like to be a part. The term of office is four years. Surely four years would be long enough to petition Highways for the changes, design and completion of the project. As a Councillor I would champion such a project. Why? Because I believe that I am not the only one ranting in their car. Vote for Shawn Lee for Vernon City Council. Cheers