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: Paul McDonell
Current occupation:
I worked for the Vancouver Fire Department for 35 years, retiring in 1997 with the rank of Deputy Chief.
Tell us about yourself:
I was a United Way Board member for seven years, its Chair 1995-2002, and a campaign cabinet member 2011-16. I served as a Burnaby Health Board director 1994-96 and on Fraser Health Board as director, then Chair, 1996-2002. I was a Labour Rep on the UIC Appeals Board for 16 years. For the past 10 years, I've been a Burnaby Tourism director, and Chair of the New Vista Trustee Board. I co-founded the Edmonds City Fair and Classic Car show. I received the BC Community Achievement Award. First elected to Council in 2008, I was re-elected in 2012 and 2014.
What are the top three issues in Burnaby right now and what would you do to fix them?
Housing. With new government regulation we are now able to protect rental housing through zoning. We will work with government and their new housing program to achieve affordable housing. Look at building additional co-ops. Working with developers to more rental units along with affordable units for purchase.
Childcare spaces. We are working with the school district to build more affordable space for children that will be operated by non-profit operators.
Traffic. Will work to update our traffic management plan. Ensure that we have alternative means such as transit.
If you have run for office before, what have you learned?
You have to commit the time and energy if you want to do a good job as a councillor. I attend many community events and talk to a lot of people. People respect that I take the time to discuss their issues with them. I’ve learned that communication is an important way to ensure our communities know and agree with what we are doing, such as amenities zoning and long-range plans for our city.
What is one achievement and one failure of Burnaby council in the last four years?
Achievement: That we were able to get legislation to protect rental housing.
Failure: That it took the so long to get rental zoning. We started advocating for rental zoning authority in the mid 1990s.
What would make you a good councillor?
I am committed to working hard to meet the needs of my constituents whenever possible. Sitting on as many committees as I do, has allowed me to understand the what, where and why of city government. I am on the following committees: Financial Management, Audit, Planning and Development, Chair Parks and Recreation and Culture Commission and the International Relations Committee.
What movie is most relevant to your life and why?
Knock on My Door with Humphrey Bogart. Because, at the end of the day, as a community, we all have responsibility for each other.
