Message from Newly Elected Area G Saltair/Gulf Islands Director Jesse McClinton
“First, I would like to acknowledge Lynne Smith for putting forth a strong and competitive campaign and extend a heartfelt thank you for her many years of service to our community and four years as our Area G director.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank a few other important people. First, to my wife Hayley, there have been many sacrifices in the McClinton home over the last few months; thank you. To my campaign team, there are too many to name, but you know who you are; thank you for your countless hours of help, kind words, and endless encouragement. Also, to my parents, Don, and Kathi, thank you for everything you have done for my brothers and me. The older I get, the more I appreciate and admire how you have lived. Finally, to you, the residents of Saltair, Thetis, & Penelakut, thank you for opening your doors and having respectful and engaging conversations with me during the campaign.
To all the other candidates in the CVRD, on Vancouver Island, and throughout BC… whether you won or lost, I commend you on your efforts. It takes guts to step up and put yourself in the public eye. I congratulate you.
At 6 pm on the day of the election, before I knew the results, I posted a video on social media encouraging everyone in Area G to use this election as an opportunity to turn the page and move forward together positively by supporting and working with whoever is elected. To the individuals that did not vote for me, I know it is not very pleasant when your choice does not win. I will do my best to ease that disappointment by focusing on the things we have in common and committing to work with anyone who wants to collaborate with me. We live in one of the most beautiful and safest places on earth and share many similar aspirations. I invite everyone to join me in focusing on those commonalities as we tackle the critical issues.
As I lean into this new and exciting leadership challenge, I will prioritize building positive and productive working relationships with my fellow directors and CVRD Staff. I have already had a working lunch with the Area Directors and an energizing full-day orientation with all Cowichan Valley staff and elected officials. Area G residents want to address many essential issues, and good working relationships will expedite these priorities.
My calendar is filling up quickly. Within the next few weeks, I will attend three more orientations, my first CVRD Board Meeting, the Thetis Island Community Forum, and the “Shape the Future of Your Electoral Areas” idea fair. Soon, I will call on volunteers to fill seats for the Strategic Advisory Committee and other working groups. In the meantime, if there is anything you want to chat about, please drop me a line (250-208-9919).”
Thanks,
Jesse McClinton B.A., MSc. Director for CVRD Area G
Ph: 250.208.9919
AreaG [at] jessemcclinton [dot] com