Having a family history in rural Oliver and knowing every nook and cranny here is something Terry Schafer hopes will help him win this fall’s election.
The former Town councillor is running for Area C director again.
“Quite a number of local folks did, indeed, urge me to run. I’ve had a nice break from local politics and I feel the time is right to re-attempt a run for Area C.”
His last run against incumbent Allan Patton wasn’t a blowout (he garnered 47 per cent support), so “with a little more time to campaign this time I believe I have a chance at the job.”
Four generations of his family have lived and/or grown up in rural Oliver, and his job with Argo has seen him looking after area roads for the past 25 years.
Schafer’s platform is simple – to be available, to be a good listener and to carry the residents’ concerns to the regional board table.
He admitted that his pet peeve is illegally dumped garbage, which he sees on a regular basis.
But there are other issues he wants to focus on.
“I’m a strong advocate of renewable energy systems and, wherever possible, I’d like to see improvements made in the usage of solar and wind power.”
Schafer has 12 years’ experience in local government, and is currently treasurer of the Oliver Fire Protection District. He is a board member of the Oliver and District Heritage Society, and the founder of the local Restorative Justice steering committee.
Schafer has many years of volunteer experience with the Kinsmen Club of Oliver and other organizations. He also has emergency management expertise through the Justice Institute of BC.
Schafer was asked about his viewpoint on the regional district’s sign regulations and how they are impacting local businesses and farmers.
“I do feel badly for some of the affected parties and I would be willing to revisit that. Ideally each third-party sign needs to be evaluated on a case by case basis.”
Schafer said no one wants a proliferation of signs on Highway 97, but everyone deserves to make a living.
“A balanced approach is what’s needed.”
On the issue of taxation, Schafer said he feels the increases like everyone else.
“I know the services we receive don’t come without a cost.”
Schafer said one thing to keep in mind is that spikes in taxation are the most harmful. For example, if taxes are kept artificially low for political purposes, only to be followed by a huge increase, that makes it hard for most people to tolerate or budget for.
