Ralph Fossum has lived in the Cariboo for over 40 years, serving 17 of them on the 100 Mile House District Council. I love 100 Mile House and I care about the people in the community and all issues affecting our quality of life in the South Cariboo.
Q: What made you want to run for councillor?
I continue to offer my name because I believe in the process of governance. There is a need for a council to sit down and create vision and direction for the community. With that direction, we engage our capable staff to build the plans and identify resources to help bring those plans and visions into form. I am proud of our team because I see it constantly striving for excellence in delivering quality services to our whole community.
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Q: What are some of the more important issues in the 100 Mile House District?
While not a very exciting election issue, I must stress that some of our infrastructures are dated and needs to be included in our active “to do” list. For example, ageing water mains are “out of sight and out of mind”, but that does not mean they can be ignored.
Staff assists us greatly in bringing this kind of issue to our attention.
Other significant issues which are current or on the immediate horizon would be:
- Wildfire protection.
- Affordable housing for seniors, the local small business workforce, and other residents in need.
- Short and long-term recreational planning which meets the needs of all ages.
- Local and regional transportation.
- Marijuana legalization is upon us. Where, when, or do we even want retail sales in 100 Mile House? The citizens of this community will be engaged in this process.
- “Clean and green technology” is coming in all sectors: we will collaborate with other communities on HWY 97 for the installation of charging stations for electric vehicles.
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Q: What do you wish to accomplish during your term if elected?
In addition to those issues noted above; I see our new Council tasked with maintaining strong relationships with other levels of government; working cooperatively with major industry to help ensure the stability of our forest industry [and] ensuring we attract and retain competent staff and provide training opportunities for them. Most importantly, it is important to me to see the excellent quality of life we all enjoy in this community be maintained well into the future.
Q: Why should the people of 100 Mile House vote for you?
I am proud of this community: a simple walk in our downtown reminds [me] of the beauty all around us and in the people who love, give, and volunteer in so many ways. Those who do volunteer will see me very present in community activity. I am a voice of reason and fairness and I am a long-standing champion of all things 100 Mile.
That is why I seek your support to continue my work on your behalf.
Q: How can supporters get in touch with you or find more out about your platform?
By phone at 250-395-4375 or email spirit100@shaw.ca.
Contact me, I would like to know what is important to you, the citizens of 100 Mile House.
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