The Burnaby NOW asked every candidate running for office in the Oct. 20 civic election to fill out a questionnaire. We hope this helps you make an informed decision at the ballot box.

Candidates were given strict word limits and a deadline to submit their answers. Those who missed the deadline will not have their questionnaires posted and answers exceeding word limits will be cut off.

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More candidate questionnaires can be found here and more of our election coverage can be found here.

Name: Carrie McLaren

Current occupation: Coordinator for Co-op Housing.

Tell us about yourself.

I served as a Board Director for a non-profit Housing society and I continue to serve as a Director on my own Co-op’s Board. My education includes a Business Degree from Capilano University which I completed in 2017, and a Diploma from BCIT in Television Production. I volunteer and run with the Green Party because I think we can do better at creating a livable sustainable community.

For fun and relaxation I take photos and I like to create yarn goodness with crochet and knitting.

What are the top three issues in Burnaby right now and what would you do to fix them?

1. Affordable Housing : everything is on the table to review and study as to what would be most effective way to increase all forms of long term affordable housing in the city. Let's find out what works in other cities for keeping or building affordable housing. I would like the city to use all the tools they have at hand to help create more co-operative housing, non-profits, rentals etc.

2. Walkable/accessible Neighbourhoods : safe accessible sidewalks, bike lanes, and transit access for everyone. You should be able to choose your mode of transport to get around without being forced by city streets or limited access to use only one mode.

3 .Debate and inclusion of residents in city council decisions to create an environment where we can have meaningful conversations and consultation with residents on city programs, facilities, community needs and planning.

If you have run for office before, what have you learned? If you have not, why are you running now?

I’ve run for city council, MLA, and MP previously. Each time has been amazing, where people debate and rant about issues they have with government, so it gives you an opportunity to see where work is needed and wanted. I’ve learned there are always opportunities to try to make better policies, through cooperation and education and when everyone contributes.

What is one achievement and one failure of Burnaby council in the last four years?

Achievement: they stood up against Kinder Morgan even though higher government/judicial powers ruled against them.

Failure: removal of affordable housing, displacing people from their neighbourhoods & lack of any progress on the homeless situation in the city.

What would make you a good councillor/mayor?

I can offer a balanced approach to council and an open mind. I welcome debate, consultations, research and sharing information and practices with other cities, residents, experts, and organizations. I want more people to get involved with their city politics.

What movie is most relevant to your life and why?

I am a fan of the Marvel universe films and Wonder Woman; finding your power and place in the world, fighting for what is right and helping people.

How can voters reach you?

Email: carrie.mclaren@greenparty.ca

Phone: 604-626-6086

Twitter: @cwalkker

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BurnabyGreenParty/

Website: https://www.burnabygreenparty.com/