Austin Seng Candidate profile approved

"A focus on responsible investments to strengthen our local economy, through support for small businesses, tourism and sustainable industry."

"Focus on accountability and transparency through in-depth reviews to find and fill all holes, gaps and pits in all areas of spending and investments, including payrolls, overhead, infrastructure and new developments."

"The role of local government in health-care infrastructure and access will vary depending on the needs of the community and the scale of the project. For larger infrastructure improvements, such as those needed at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital (NRGH), we must work collaboratively with provincial and federal governments to advocate for and help secure the necessary funding. At the local level, improving access to care, particularly for our most vulnerable residents, must remain a priority. This includes supporting initiatives that improve access to immediate care, reduce emergency room wait times, strengthen emergency response, and expand access to mental health services for people of all ages and income levels. "

"When it comes to development, we must carefully evaluate our priorities, plan for the long term, and understand where boundaries need to be drawn. Sustainability must be at the forefront of our decisions, and I will stand firmly against projects that put our local ecosystems and wildlife habitats at unnecessary risk. We should prioritize green infrastructure, net zero building standards, and developments that deliver clear, lasting benefits to our community. On a broader scale, we need to protect our invaluable natural habitats, preserve existing forests, expand urban green spaces, and integrate nature into the way we design our neighbourhoods. We should also encourage greater density within our urban cores, increase access to subsidized housing, and find new uses for vacant commercial properties to create more affordable housing opportunities. Growth must be supported by thoughtful infrastructure planning, including accessible sidewalks, connected cycling networks, reliable public transit, and the services our growing community needs. By planning ahead and balancing development with environmental stewardship, housing affordability, and responsible investment, we can build a more sustainable Nanaimo. "

"Improved accessibility through continued upgrades to pedestrian, cycling and public transit infrastructure, including expanded transit routes to rural areas."

"To address housing affordability and availability, we need to build denser neighbourhoods, embrace taller buildings with more housing units and smaller footprints, and make better use of the space we have. We also need to recognize that having a large home is a privilege when so many people are struggling to find a place to live. Within our urban cores, we should expand access to subsidized housing, encourage vacant investment properties to return to the rental market, and explore converting underused commercial buildings into new, affordable housing options. By making better use of existing spaces and prioritizing housing for people at all income levels, we can work towards a more accessible and inclusive Nanaimo."

"People experiencing homelessness are part of our community. They are our friends, family members, and neighbours. Working every day in downtown Nanaimo gives me the opportunity to connect with people firsthand, listen to their stories, and better understand the challenges they face. Some of the common needs I hear about include access to both short and long term housing, especially during the colder months, safe shower facilities, hygiene products, food security, and access to a mailing address. By building stronger relationships from the ground up, I will work collaboratively with the incredible organizations already doing this important work to explore meaningful, practical solutions. We also need to look at new approaches to improving mental health, addictions treatment, and long term care options. I will continue advocating for greater support and accountability from our provincial and federal governments."

"A focus on responsible and sustainable investments to strengthen our local economy. Collaboration with small businesses to improve marketing campaigns and promote core business districts. Continuing to showcase Nanaimo's local talent and unique character through markets, community events and activities. Creation of an annual grant to help fund and inspire young entrepreneurs, providing more opportunity for innovative and diverse local businesses. Prevent vacant commercial spaces by encouraging owners to provide short-term leases to renters. Focus on accountability and transparency through in-depth reviews to find and fill all holes, gaps and pits in all areas of spending and investments, including payrolls, overhead, infrastructure and new developments."

"Improved safety measures that benefit local residents, visitors to our our city and the unhoused community. Increased collaboration and development efforts between social outreach teams, Community Safety Officers, RCMP, Snuneymuxw First Nation, block watches and third party contractors to effectively monitor and respond to health and safety issues. Engaging Downtown Nanaimo Business Assn. and business owners to play an active part in the above goal - people who witness these issues firsthand - by increasing awareness and access to first aid and overdose response training and supplies. Allocating funds for interested parties to receive training when necessary. More supportive pathways for at-risk youth, including through better access to extra-curricular programs, workshops and volunteer opportunities. Cleaner streets through improved maintenance for removal of hazardous waste materials, and expanded public garbage and recycling locations."

"As a longtime resident and downtown business owner, I have experienced firsthand the challenges our core community faces. Through shared experiences, we can truly understand how to build a better, more inclusive, and supportive community. Economic Stability, Public Safety, Connected Communities, and Preservation & Revitalization are all key pillars of how a successful city should grow. Filling vacant spaces, restoring our history, creating more long and short term leasing options, improving tourism, encouraging sustainable development, protecting green spaces, supporting small businesses, inspiring innovation, and celebrating cultural diversity are just a few of the many things I’m fighting for!"

"Moving forward through the preservation and celebration of local heritage, culture and lands. Preservation and restoration of foundational historic and cultural sites, including fair reviews of the goals and scope of prospective projects. Expand on existing cultural heritage education and related tourism opportunities. Increased support of the Island Corridor Foundation's proposed and current development efforts. Protection of invaluable local ecosystems from development; growth cannot come at their cost. A healthy environment is fundamental to all facets of a thriving society, and appreciation of natural spaces must remain an essential part of our culture."

"To me, community means kindness, empathy, compassion, inclusion, transparency, and honesty. It means standing firmly against hate and celebrating the people, cultures, and places that make our community worth fighting for. I will work to bridge gaps, strengthen communication, and ensure every voice has an opportunity to be heard. That starts with making information more accessible in different languages and creating more opportunities for everyone to participate in important conversations and decisions that shape our community. Transparency means keeping people informed, communicating openly, and being accountable for the decisions we make. I believe residents deserve to understand how decisions are reached, have opportunities to share their perspectives, and know that their concerns are being taken seriously. We can also strengthen our community by celebrating diverse cultures and shared experiences, creating opportunities to come together, learn from one another, and work towards common goals. By fostering open dialogue, mutual respect, and meaningful public participation, we can build a more connected, inclusive, and accountable Nanaimo."

"Improved communication within diverse groups and local connections between people and places. Lead initiatives to connect with underrepresented and marginalized groups, supporting meaningful participation from everyone affected by important issues - no voice above another. Strengthen relationships with local arts and cultural groups to promote diverse opportunities for community engagement. Improved accessibility through continued upgrades to pedestrian, cycling and public transit infrastructure, including expanded transit routes to rural areas. Encourage and support development of urban green spaces and multi-use third spaces based on community input."

"Collaboration is key at every level of government. Building stronger relationships with our municipal neighbours, provincial and federal governments, opens the door to meaningful discussions around shared priorities and long term goals. Through open communication, collaborative planning, and responsible funding, we can work together to move important initiatives forward, such as Island Rail, while ensuring our decisions reflect the needs of our communities and deliver lasting benefits for the region."

"Snuneymuxw First Nation are the original caretakers of this land, and building stronger relationships through mutual respect, collaboration, and open communication must remain a priority. We need a more connected, hand in hand approach that encourages meaningful dialogue and shared decision making on matters that affect our communities. Community has always been one of my main priorities, and I believe fostering these relationships is essential to building a more inclusive, respectful, and connected Nanaimo for everyone. "

"My priorities would include advocating for increased access to housing and essential services for our most vulnerable residents, while working with our provincial and federal partners to advance progress on Island Rail alongside the Island Corridor Foundation. I would also advocate for continued investment in major health-care facilities, medical equipment, and infrastructure, as well as sustainable funding and support for the mental health organizations doing important work in our community. "

"My priorities would start with building stronger relationships with the school district, listening to educators, families, and students, and understanding the needs of each school. I would advocate for necessary infrastructure improvements and expansion, while working collaboratively to ensure resources are allocated fairly and essential needs are addressed. Beyond the classroom, I believe we need to create more opportunities for our youth through after-school programs, mentorship initiatives, and accessible community spaces where young people can connect, learn, and grow. By working together with the school district, community organizations, and other levels of government, we can help build a more connected and supportive environment for Nanaimo’s next generation."

"We need to improve access to affordable, reliable childcare for families in Nanaimo. As the cost of living continues to rise, we need to explore more family focused solutions that make childcare accessible to people across different income levels. By building stronger relationships with childcare providers and working collaboratively with the City, provincial government, and community organizations, we can explore opportunities for subsidized childcare facilities and community based programs that better meet the growing needs of local families."