The Coquitlam election to choose a new city councillor is coming up on May 15. We have been in contact with all of the candidates, and we asked them a few questions to get a feel for where they stand. Brian Babcock responded, and his answers are printed verbatim.
1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself, and why you are running for council?
My name is Brian Babcock. I’m 45 years old and have lived in Coquitlam for 25 years. I am married with 2 children. I am an entrepreneur and have operated three different companies in Coquitlam. The most recognizable business I owned was Babcock Fly and Tackle on Austin Ave. I started that store in 1986 and eventually sold it to one of my long time employees a few years ago. I have been very involved in the creative thinking school program – “Odyssey of the Mind”. I’m a hockey coach and passionate outdoor enthusiast.
Why I am running for Council is quite simple. I have been fortunate enough to have had successful businesses, a safe and healthy environment to raise my family, and fabulous outdoor opportunities all within the City of Coquitlam. At this point in my life, I have the opportunity to give a bit back. I don’t consider myself a politician. I don’t have any ambitions beyond Council. I have not and will not accept any campaign donations. I have not and will not enter into any agreements with special interest groups. In this manner, I hope to serve as a truly independent voice on Council.
2. What do you see as the most important issues currently facing the City of Coquitlam?
There are many issues I could address but I will choose three that I consider critical. First and foremost is fiscal responsibility. I am of the strong opinion that the financial turmoil that is throughout the world is far from over. Here in Canada, and specifically Coquitlam, we have had the good fortune to be somewhat shielded from this mess. There are many reasons for this but the bottom line is that we have been fortunate so far and we need to make use of this good fortune to prepare for an unsure future. Second is homelessness. I’m tired of hearing promises around this issue. I want to see some concrete getting poured. Third is a sense that with the departure of Fin Donnelly, I fear that we have lost a great advocate for healthy streams and rivers. I would love to accept this role.
3. How will you work together with Mayor Richard Stewart and Council to make Coquitlam better?
I have always been a pretty easy person to get along with. Although I can have very strong opinions, I am always eager to learn the other side. I am honest, forthright, and willing to accept responsibility. I can make decisions. It is these qualities that I will bring to the Council table and it is these qualities that will allow me to work with our Mayor and fellow Councillors to make Coquitlam better.
4. How will you encourage more people to become involved with their civic government?
I think that this begins with youth. As a Councillor, I would take every opportunity available to engage youth in the process. I would strive to demonstrate a level of honesty and integrity that would stand as a positive example. Through youth, I believe we can increase community pride and encourage more civic involvement.
I’d like to thank Brian for taking the time to get back to us. And I would like to encourage all Coquitlam residents to get out and vote on May 15. Local politics matter!
