The Burnaby NOW asked every candidate running for office in the Oct. 20 civic election to fill out a questionnaire. We hope this helps you make an informed decision at the ballot box.
Candidates were given strict word limits and a deadline to submit their answers. Those who missed the deadline will not have their questionnaires posted and answers exceeding word limits will be cut off.
More candidate questionnaires can be found here and more of our election coverage can be found here.
Name: Dan Johnston
Current occupation: Chartered Professional Accountant (CGA)
Tell us about yourself.
I was first elected to Burnaby Council in 1993, and have had the honor of serving its citizens as a City Councillor since then. I’m 57 years old, a 53 year Burnaby resident, a homeowner in the Lakeview-Mayview neighbourhood, a Chartered Professional Accountant (CGA), and a married father of a grown son who attended Burnaby schools and SFU. Since being elected, my focus has been in areas of the environment and services for youth. As an Accountant I strive to ensure Burnaby remains technologically and financially strong, I enjoy working with citizens, assisting them with the challenges of city government.
What are the top three issues in Burnaby right now and what would you do to fix them?
1. Opposition to the Kinder Morgan pipeline and the impact it’s construction will have on Burnaby residents. This includes a potential disaster arising from its operation potentially impacting city neighbourhoods, Burnaby Mountain, SFU, and or Burrard inlet. I will continue to stand in opposition with Burnaby citizens and First Nations.
2. As the geographic centre of Metro Vancouver, Burnaby encounters more than its share of commuter traffic and congestion. As we update or transportation plan, citizen input is paramount to a plan which meets our future. This begins with increased transit, safer bike routes and more efficient north south travel.
3. A growing population means affordability of housing becomes more of an issue. Thanks to very recent legislation from the province, Burnaby can now preserve our rental stock. Affordability requires help from senior governments. A BCA Council is committed to making it work including waiving fees for agencies to assist.
If you have run for office before, what have you learned? If you have not, why are you running now?
Burnaby is a wonderfully inclusive community which is a mix of traditional values and welcome opportunities. It is a community built though the hard work of dedicated women and men. It’s a community which holds its politicians to a high standard ensuring financial stewardship, environmental leadership and a social conscience.
As a City Councillor, I serve at the pleasure of those who elect me and would be honoured to continue to serve in the future.
What is one achievement and one failure of Burnaby council in the last four years?
Burnaby continues to attract some of the world’s best businesses. Companies including head offices within the technology sector have resulted in high paying clean jobs for Burnaby citizens. The City has also become home to 70 percent of the Canadian movie industry again offering well-sought-after employment and spin-off business.
Burnaby has been challenged by insufficient social housing. Council has long offered the use of city land and waived development costs, but without federal or provincial subsidization of rents little has been built. A new Provincial government has brought a new commitment to social housing which is reversing this trend.
What would make you a good councillor/mayor?
Firstly, I have experience. I have a good record of getting things done for Burnaby’s citizens. I’ve lived here most of my life so understand our community and how it’s changing. As an accountant, I have the financial skills to ensure a strong city with affordable taxes. Lastly, I care.
What movie is most relevant to your life and why?
Polar Express. A Tom Hanks movie about believing in Santa. When a doubting young boy is gifted a bell from Santa he begins to believe the world has possibilities. Burnaby has great possibilities. “The bells still ring for me, and they ring for all who believe… Do you still Believe?”
How can voters reach you?
