Name: Frank Leonard
Age: 60
Occupation: Business person.
Describe your relevant background:
I was first elected Mayor in 1996, after serving on Council since 1986. I chair the Saanich Police Board, and I have chaired the Capital Regional District board, the Hospital Board and the Housing Corporation.
My background is in my family's business, having managed Victoria Tire Ltd.'s three Kal Tire stores prior to becoming Mayor.
I currently Chair of the Municipal Finance Authority, am a Trustee of the Municipal Pension Plan and a member of the Transit Commission. In the past, I have served as President of the Union of BC Municipalities and on the Federation of Canadian Municipalities board.
How would you be a beneficial voice on Saanich council?
Together, we have built a sustainable, vibrant and healthy community. I wish to continue working with you to continue to enhance the community we call home.
Saanich is known for its financial management. Through careful planning, we have increased our spending on pipes, roads, bridges and sidewalks. In four years, we will be one of few communities to have eliminated our infrastructure deficit. This is important for us, our children and grandchildren.
We are a healthy and active community, with modern libraries, recreation and senior’s centres. Our parks, trails and natural spaces are second to none, especially our most recent acquisitions: Haro Woods, Panama Flats and Blenkinsop Lake.
We support affordable housing projects through funding and approvals. This includes the Habitat for Humanity project in Cedar Hill, Cool-Aid transition housing on Quadra Street, and St Vincent de Paul housing on West Saanich Road.
I am proud that Saanich is recognized as a leader in environmental programs. Our climate change initiatives have won awards, and we are a founding member of Partners for Climate Protection.
I believe Saanich is a special place, where green space and commerce co-exist, and where we continue to work together for a healthier tomorrow.
What is your campaign slogan or guiding principle?
Let's keep Saanich sustainable, healthy and vibrant.
Website: frankleonard.ca
Facebook: facebook.com/MayorFrankLeonard
Twitter: @frank_leonard