Betsy Kline
Castlegar News
As a continuation to our series profiling candidates for city council in the upcoming municipal election, we asked the final two candidates about their background, why they decided to run and what their goals and priorities would be if elected.
Born and raised in Castlegar, Tyler Maddocks is the youngest candidate to enter the race. This is his third attempt to win a seat on Council. He ran in the last municipal election and then in the by-election to replace Russ Hearne.
The Maddocks family has a history of politics in Castlegar. Tyler’s grandfather was mayor of Kinnaird at the same time that his grandfather’s brother was mayor of Castlegar. Tyler’s father has also served on city council.
He currently works for a tool accessory distributor and has previous experience in the area of financial planning. He also believes his skills with web development and social media work could be an asset to the city.
“I strongly believe that each generation is brought up a little bit differently and has a little bit different views and perspectives on things. I can really see it being beneficial to have one person of the six who is under the age of 30.”
“I believe social media is the key to getting people more involved. I think it is important to hear people’s feedback before a project is completed. I believe social media implementation could help with that.”
Maddocks would like to work on revitalization of the downtown core. His ideas for increasing business and tourism include exploring the idea of a city campground similar to the one in Nelson.
Dave Grantham moved to Castlegar from Surrey in 2006 for the opportunity to open the M&M Meat Shop.
After years of experience in grocery store management he had started an organic pet food company in the lower mainland, but having previously visited the Kootenays felt drawn to the area. Grantham also has experience in search and rescue and Rotary, and is the current President of Castlegar Minor Soccer and Director of the Kootenay Youth Soccer Association.
“It is perfect timing. I have been engaged in the process. I like to help people in the community. I know there is a lot to learn, but you have to get in there and get your feet wet.”
Grantham feels healthcare is an important issue and would like to pursue cooperation among the local areas to erase the divisiveness and work together towards a new hospital.
He would also like to further the developments of recreation opportunities including adding another sheet of ice to the complex. Another piece Grantham would like to put in place is a live streaming web cast of city council meetings. “I really love the community. I really like the people who are on council now. I’d like the chance to work with progressive people who have my respect already.”
The election will be held Saturday, November 15. The polling station will be the Castlegar and District Community Complex located at 2106 Sixth Avenue. Votes can be cast between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.. Advance voting will take place at the Community Forum located at 445 13th Avenue on November 4 and 5, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. both days.
If you have not previously registered to vote and meet the qualifications, you may do so on election day by presenting two pieces of ID, one of which must have your signature and one which must provide proof of residency or property ownership.