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: Sav Dhaliwal
Current occupation: Councillor
Tell us about yourself.
I retired from Telus in 2006 after a long career in information technology.
I am past volunteer at New Vista Society, a community-based senior citizens’ support organization and several minor league sports entities. I am a proud life-member of Burnaby Minor Hockey Association.
I was elected to Burnaby Council in 2002 and re-elected for four consecutive terms since. I have served on the boards of Metro Vancouver, Federation of Canadian Municipalities and president of the Union of BC Municipalities.
My wife and I have resided in Burnaby for the past 40 years. We enjoy our time with our four grandchildren.
What are the top three issues in Burnaby right now and what would you do to fix them?
If you have run for office before, what have you learned? If you have not, why are you running now?
In my sixteen years as a councillor, I have had the opportunity to engage with hundreds, if not thousands, of citizens on social and civic discussions. Every encounter is an opportunity to learn.
Most important obligation of an elected official, in my opinion, is to be accessible to your constituents.
I have learned to listen effectively; be respectful in disagreements; keep an open mind on complex issues and that continuous learning is a life-long process.
What is one achievement and one failure of Burnaby council in the last four years?
Burnaby City Council adopted its Environmental Sustainability Strategy in 2016. The strategy was developed through extensive public engagement over a four year period.
The strategy is a roadmap for our city, businesses and citizens to take pragmatic steps in tackling climate change. Cities must take leadership role in making our communities more resilient to the fallout of global warming.
Burnaby has now instituted a Sustainable City Advisory Committee that will advise the Council on implementing public policy to achieve the stated goals of the Strategy.
I acknowledge that regional, provincial and federal governments collectively failed in delivering affordable housing.
What would make you a good councillor/mayor?
Good councillors are responsive to their constituents.
They listen effectively; value others’ opinions; and engage public on important issues. They make policy and fact-based decisions.
They are stewards of public assets and practice prudent financial management.
They work cooperatively with all orders of government for common good.
What movie is most relevant to your life and why?
Sorry, can’t think of any!
How can voters reach you?
