Andrea Boardman
Are you associated with or running as part of a slate? If so, which one?
No
Do you live in the municipality where you are running, and if so, for how long? If not, what is your connection to that community?
Yes, Esquimalt, 27 years
What is your occupation, and for how long?
Executive Director, Island Health. Six years in current role; 38 years with Island Health
Tell us about your previous elected and/or community experience.
As a long term resident of Esquimalt I began volunteering at the Esquimalt Little League in 2001, and at school functions at Macauley, Rockheights and Esquimalt High Schools. I recently completed two terms on the Parks and Recreation Committee, providing an important role in advising and providing policy recommendations to Mayor and Council. As part of my recent work at Island Health I was instrumental in planning, coordinating and setting up logistics and operations at the Archie Browning Immunization Clinic.
Why are you running? What’s your motivation?
I have always been interested in municipal politics and the timing is perfect for me to run this year. My children are grown, my career is stable and I wish to give back to this community that will always be my home. I have utmost respect for current council and would like to do my part to move forward with a vision of a healthy, inclusive and vibrant community.
What are your top three issues?
I am passionate about supporting the creation of a model of high quality, local and accessible health care for all Esquimalt residents. I support development that provides a thoughtful and deliberate blend of housing to support the diverse people that make Esquimalt their home, as well as appropriate retail and public services. I endorse the development of Climate Mitigation and Adaption plans and believe in monitoring and managing key performance indicators to measure our success.
What’s your vision for your community in 25 years?
I envision a diverse and thriving community with opportunities for meaningful, local employment. A community that supports health and healing, where our families can grow, learn, live and play in an environment that respects our history and looks forward to our bright future.
What’s one “big idea” you have for your community?
I would like to explore non-traditional opportunities to attract physicians, nurse practitioners and other health professionals into Esquimalt. Not just to work, but to live and be a part of our community. Is there an opportunity to convert municipal assets to support recruitment of these professionals? Could we offer temporary reductions in rent/overhead in exchange for guaranteed service levels for set periods of time? This is a complex problem, and I commit to working hard over the next four years to find a creative solution. Healthy people make a healthy community.
