Through the collective efforts of city council and community leaders, we can create a safer, stronger and more sustainable future and increased quality of life for everyone.
PUBLIC HEALTH & SAFETY
Improved safety measures that benefit local residents, visitors to our our city and the unhoused community.
- Increased collaboration and development efforts between social outreach teams, Community Safety Officers, RCMP, Snuneymuxw First Nation, block watches and third party contractors to effectively monitor and respond to health and safety issues.
- Engaging Downtown Nanaimo Business Assn. and business owners to play an active part in the above goal - people who witness these issues firsthand - by increasing awareness and access to first aid and overdose response training and supplies. Allocating funds for interested parties to receive training when necessary.
- More supportive pathways for at-risk youth, including through better access to extra-curricular programs, workshops and volunteer opportunities.
- Cleaner streets through improved maintenance for removal of hazardous waste materials, and expanded public garbage and recycling locations.
ECONOMIC SUSTAINABILITY
A focus on responsible and sustainable investments to strengthen our local economy.
- Collaboration with small businesses to improve marketing campaigns and promote core business districts. Continuing to showcase Nanaimo's local talent and unique character through markets, community events and activities.
- Creation of an annual grant to help fund and inspire young entrepreneurs, providing more opportunity for innovative and diverse local businesses.
- Prevent vacant commercial spaces by encouraging owners to provide short-term leases to renters.
- Focus on accountability and transparency through in-depth reviews to find and fill all holes, gaps and pits in all areas of spending and investments, including payrolls, overhead, infrastructure and new developments.
COMMUNITY CONNECTION
Improved communication within diverse groups and local connections between people and places.
- Lead initiatives to connect with underrepresented and marginalized groups, supporting meaningful participation from everyone affected by important issues - no voice above another.
- Strengthen relationships with local arts and cultural groups to promote diverse opportunities for community engagement, education and mentorship.
- Improved accessibility through continued upgrades to pedestrian, cycling and public transit infrastructure, including expanded transit routes to rural areas.
- Encourage and support development of urban green spaces and multi-use third spaces based on community input.
PRESERVATION & REVITALIZATION
Moving forward through the preservation and celebration of local heritage, culture and lands.
- Preservation and restoration of foundational historic and cultural sites, including fair reviews of the goals and scope of prospective projects.
- Expand on existing cultural heritage education and related tourism opportunities.
- Increased support of the Island Corridor Foundation's proposed and current development efforts.
- Protection of invaluable local ecosystems from development; growth cannot come at their cost. A healthy environment is fundamental to all facets of a thriving society, and appreciation of natural spaces must remain an essential part of our culture.
ABOUT ME
I'm Austin Seng, a lifelong Harewood kid who has proudly called Nanaimo home for 35 years. I've seen the ups, downs and all iterations in between and have personal connections to many of the issues we face today.
I owe my work ethic to my immigrant parents, who through immense hardships and perseverance taught me the value of never giving up. With over a decade of experience in various levels of business development and management, I decided to move in a direction that is better aligned with my values and desire to make a positive impact. I now own and operate A. Seng & Co., a vintage general store and photography studio in the heart of downtown Nanaimo. I'm actively involved in downtown revitalization efforts and excited to continue seeing real progress being made here.
Through my work and engagement with the community, I've developed a deep appreciation for the people, businesses and places that make this city special. I'm passionate about preserving our cultural heritage and natural beauty while helping build a strong future for everyone who gets to call Nanaimo home.
LET'S CHAT
Reach out if you have any questions about my campaign, positions on specific issues, or just to chat!
You can also find me every day at A. Seng & Co. Vintage Studio, 39 Victoria Crescent.