Long time Kaleden resident Tom Siddon announced last week that he will be in the running for the RDOS Area “D” Directors position currently held by Bill Schwarz of Okanagan Falls. Mr. Schwarz plans to retire in November after nine years of dedicated service as the rural Director for South Skaha and surrounding areas.
As a former Alternate Director for Area “D”, Siddon believes he is well qualified for the job. “In running for this position I am aware that there are a number of important projects underway which will continue to require experienced leadership and open public discussion as they go forward,” he said. “These include completion of the OK Falls waterfront park improvements, and the new waste water treatment facility, as well as the comprehensive revision of the Official Community Plans for Area “D.” There are also important questions to be addressed relating to water quality and aquifer capacity issues, the south Skaha lakeshore study, possible sewer system extensions to Skaha Estates and Kaleden, and the consideration of a new and more representative form of local governance in South Skaha”, Siddon added.
“If I am elected as director for Area “D” I intend to show respect for the opinions of all residents and tax-payers; to listen with an open mind and to show fiscal responsibility toward the public in these challenging economic times.” “I expect also to give increased attention to the issues and concerns of those who live in the uplands and smaller communities within Area “D,” Siddon concluded.
Tom Siddon has extensive experience in public life and government having served as city councillor (Richmond, B.C. 1975-1977), Member of Parliament (1978 – 1993) and for nine years as a cabinet minister in the federal government. Before embarking on his political career Tom was active as a research scientist, consultant and Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of British Columbia. In 2009 Mr. Siddon was awarded the Okanagan Water Leadership Award in recognition of his three years work as founding chair of the Okanagan Water Stewardship Council, where he led the 26 member Stewardship Council in its preparation of a long range Water Management Strategy for the Okanagan.
Tom Siddon is currently an elected school trustee in school district 67, a position which he will not contest in the upcoming November election. Tom and his wife Pat have five children and ten grandchildren. They have made their family home in Kaleden for the past 24 years.
PROVEN LEADERSHIP FOR CHALLENGING TIMES
For further information contact:
TOM SIDDON CAMPAIGN
(250) 497-8881
tsiddon@shaw.ca