Brendan Marshall
Are you associated with or running as part of a slate? If so, which one?
No I am not running as part of a slate.
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?
I do not live in the municipality of Victoria, however I live in Esquimalt and very close by. I was born and raised in James Bay and lived and worked in Victoria for over 30 years. My connection to the community is very strong, with my mother still living on the same block I was raised. I spend lots of time in Victoria and the community is near and dear to my heart.
What is your occupation, and for how long?
I drove for Victoria Taxi for 13 years, and for the past 6 years I’ve co-owned and operated Sunnyside Cafe in Esquimalt with my wife Stephanie Marshall.
Tell us about your previous elected and/or community experience.
My community experience over the years has been very local and neighbourhood oriented. I help people whenever I can, whether is is moving a load of yard waste or furniture for someone I am always happy to lend a hand or my truck. I lent support to my wife while she sat on the Chamber of Commerce in Esquimalt for a year.
Why are you running? What’s your motivation?
I am running for Mayor because I care about Victoria. Things have gotten really bad and I want to bring back harmony. I have always stood up for people, and I intend to stand up for the residents of this city.
I believe there needs to be a major change in the way we deal with things like crime, homelessness, traffic flow, and government spending. My motivation is my children, the citizens, and the future of this city.
What are your top three issues?
Housing - We need more middle and affordable housing. Red tape needs to be cut to speed up development timelines. It is time we do something before the Province steps in and does it for us.
Crime and Squalor - We need to establish firm boundaries around camping in parks and streets, and open drug scenes while proving better support for those ready to get help.
Traffic flow - Bike lanes need to be rethought and made more efficient, and safer for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians alike. Vehicles are still the main means of transport and must be prioritized. Closed off areas like Clover Point and Beacon Hill Park must be reopened.
What’s your vision for your community in 25 years?
My vision is for Victoria to be a vibrant, clean, and prosperous city that people from around the world look upon with envy. I want everyone from all walks of life to thrive; Students, young families, small business owners, recent immigrants, you name it.
What’s one “big idea” you have for your community?
My “big idea” is to bring some common sense back to Victoria and put the residents of this city first. I plan to set a tone at city hall where essential city services come first, and ideology, pet projects, and special interests are frowned upon.
