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Van Alphen seeks second term

Martin Van Alphen describes himself as an ordinary, average guy.

Martin Van Alphen describes himself as an ordinary, average guy.

“What you see is what you get,” said Van Alphen, who is running for a second term as a municipal councillor.

“I’m not a politician. I’m a leader, not a follower, and I speak my mind.”

He describes himself as pro-growth, pro-industry and pro-agriculture.

“We need to continue to look at alternative revenue sources other than taxation, such as ag leases and gravel extraction,” he said. “We need different housing options for young families in the community, not necessarily gated communities and 55 plus. We need to continue to lobby senior government for grant opportunities such as for our Garnett Valley water twinning project.”

During his first term on council, Van Alphen said one of the toughest decisions was the reduction of municipal staff. This resulted in labour savings of $550,000.

He was also a member of the founding committee of Summerland Bully-Free.

Van Alphen said he takes seriously his role at the council table.

“I remain committed to the community of Summerland and have not missed a council meeting in three years,” he said. “I will continue to be approachable to all Summerland residents on all issues.”