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ELECTION 2014: Businesswoman to run for council

CITY OF CAMPBELL RIVER: Wright, Marlene – Councillor Candidate
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Marlene Wright

A long-time Campbell River businesswoman is running for a spot on city council.

Marlene Wright, who moved with her family to Campbell River from Toronto because of life style and opportunity, sees a bright future for the city.

“Today we are blessed with two ongoing major projects – BC Hydro’s John Hart dam and the new hospital. This gives us a limited time to build the future,” Wright says. “The Seymour Pacific head office, the First Nations projects, Berwick and the Comfort Inn promote much pride, growth and attention for Campbell River. We have many young, skilled professionals who will help shape the future of Campbell River and I support their goals. This is a very positive sign.”

Wright and her husband, Al, relocated to Campbell River after purchasing the city’s former Beaver Lumber franchise. She says that raising her three children in this vibrant, growing community was magical for them.

Her passion and commitment for this community led her to get involved with the Salmon Kings Swim Club, Killer Whales and Swim B.C. at the executive level.

The Wrights sold Beaver Lumber and later purchased Work World. At this time, Wright ventured into financial planning and investment management with Investors Group and later Scotiabank where she gained invaluable experience as investment advisor for six Vancouver Island branches before joining her husband and daughter Sydney in the Work World family business. Wright says her experiences are essential for leadership which she plans to use to market Campbell River.

“We must provide a positive image of our city to our residents and the outside world. Lead by example,” Wright says. “I will plan, prepare and execute for a great future for Campbell River.”

Wright is also committed to stimulating the economy.

“I will support economic development so young families can make a good living in Campbell River,” Wright says. “This is imperative to the sustainability of our city. Young families are coming – we need many more.”

Wright knows how important it is to attract families that want to play a role in the community.

The Wrights themselves were members of the Chamber of Commerce, a sponsor of the Storm hockey team, other local sport teams, theatre and the successful Fashion Inferno shows since the beginning. Wright says she is also a proud Rotarian and past president.

“Rotary has done so much for our community: the Sea Walk, Splash Park, outdoor pool, and now the Elk Falls Suspension Bridge,” she says.

Wright has also fundraised for Cops for Cancer and Relay for Life.

In June, the Wrights sold Work World.

“I now have time to use my experience, passion and commitment to help make this a more sustainable city,” Wright says. “We hear so often ‘everyone is leaving Campbell River. There is nothing here for our future.’  For a future, we must bury that myth. Gandhi said ‘You must be the change you want to see in the world.’”

If elected, Wright is adamant that:

  • She will work to protect the lifestyle that the people of Campbell River enjoy.

  • She will encourage efficient use of our natural resources. She says the city’s waterfront, abundant resources, supply of quality water and surrounding resources are very important for the future and the city needs more development but to be vigilant in how it’s done.

  • The city provide better services for seniors.

  • All of our citizens are entitled to be concerned about taxes. As a council we need to manage taxes in an efficient manner.

“Exercise your right to vote. Vote the Wright way,” says Wright who can be reached at 778-420-1106 or at: vote.marlene.wright@gmail.com