A former Campbell River councillor is running for Mayor in the upcoming municipal election.
Michel Rabu, the owner and operator of coffee shop, Gourmet Java, hopes to re-enter the political ring this fall.
Rabu previously served on city council under Mayor Robert Ostler from 1985-1988.
He also ran for a spot on council in 2008, albeit unsuccessfully. This time, he’s vying for the top job.
“I believe that leadership, conservative fiscal policies and attracting new economic development in Campbell River are key issues on people’s minds and I believe that I possess the experience, common sense and dedication that will translate into a better operated, more cost effective and business friendly City Hall,” Rabu says.
“I also believe that as a long time resident and successful business owner in Campbell River, I appreciate the qualities that make our city special in so many ways and I recognize our city’s potential as the best place to live, work and retire in British Columbia today.”
If elected mayor, Rabu pledges to freeze property taxes in his first year of office and freeze RCMP and fire department hiring.
He says he will also re-integrate Rivercorp, the city’s economic development organization, into City Hall.
Rivercorp was established in 2001 as an independent body from the city but councillors have questioned the effectiveness of Rivercorp which is funded by the city.
Rabu also promises to create, implement and encourage Downtown Core and Campbellton revitalization plans and conduct a peer review of all city managers.
Rabu says he has the skills to work co-operatively with city staff to ensure there is no wasteful spending of taxpayer money.
“I am considered by my peers as a team leader and capacity builder and I promise to direct city managers and staff to work in the most cost and result beneficial manner that will best serve the citizens and taxpayers of our city,” Rabu says.
“I am committed to the process and responsibility of the office – it’s time to get back on our proverbial feet.”
Rabu’s platform also includes reviewing and adopting a comprehensive Emergency Preparedness Plan, resolving the city’s interest in the three and a half acre waterfront property and addressing snow removal priorities and reviewing other essential city services.
Rabu joins Coun. Roy Grant as the only candidates so far to announce an intention to run for mayor.
Mayor Charlie Cornfield’s decision to not seek re-election means that come November, Campbell Riverites will have elected a new mayor in five of the last six elections.
Municiple elections will take place on Nov. 19.