Name: Rebecca Mersereau
Age: 31
Occupation: Biologist (policy development)
Describe your relevant background:
I have extensive experience in community service through voluntary participation on several non-profit boards, advisory committees and panels, and I am a strong advocate for greater citizen and youth engagement in community development.
I currently serve as Vice-Chair of the Capital Regional District’s Water Advisory Committee; Secretary and Director of the Inter-cultural Association of Greater Victoria, which provides services to immigrants and refugees; and Director of the Garry Oak Ecosystems Recovery Team Society.
I have academic degrees in biology, education, and environmental management and spent the early part of my career managing non-profit organizations, where in addition to advancing environmental objectives, I acquired relevant skills in governance, financial management, human resources, and public relations.
I currently work for the College of Applied Biology, an occupational regulatory authority, where I contribute to policy development and standards to ensure the competency of biology professionals in BC.
How would you be a beneficial voice on Saanich council?
As a Councillor, I would bring a more forward-thinking perspective to the table and advocate for long-range planning that establishes a vision for Saanich for the next 10, 20, and 30 years to ensure we retain the features that residents value most.
There is a need for change on the current Council to bring new ideas forward, and to ensure future challenges and neglected issues, such the demographic shift and affordable housing and services, receive the attention they are due.
My election to Saanich Council would also result in an elected body that is more representative of our region’s age demographics and progressive views. I would push for more opportunities for the public to have input on important decisions, such as budget and service priorities, as well as infrastructure projects.
I feel strongly that our elected officials should be more accessible to members of the public and accountable for their decisions, which rarely stack up against the promises and commitments made in various planning documents and in election campaigns. In contrast, I am willing to deliver on my commitments.
Most importantly, I firmly believe in the importance of independent and objective decision-making to ensure Saanich’s long-term interest is foremost.
What is your campaign slogan or guiding principle?
Energetic, independent, accountable.
Website: rebeccamersereau.ca
Twitter: @RJMersereau