Jordan Reichert
Website: www.jordanreichert.ca
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JordanReichertForSaanich
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Vote_Reichert
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, for over a year.
What is your occupation, and for how long?
Mental health and addictions worker for the past 15 years.
Tell us about your previous elected and/or community experience.
I started working for Thrifty Foods as a youth, then as a marine electrician, before entering the field of health care in addictions treatment and environmental advocacy. I am a community organizer in the region, organizing BC’s largest outdoor veg fest, Vegtoria, fundraising for local charities, and building community through countless events. I have also volunteered with mental health and addictions support groups, local farm sanctuaries, pet rescues, and more in service to the community. I have also worked collegially with all levels of government and in districts across the country to advocate on issues of environmental protection.
Why are you running? What’s your motivation?
My motivation to run for Saanich council and CRD director is to ensure environmental protection and adaptability in the region to address the climate crisis. Working in health care as a mental health and addictions worker for the past 15 years, I am passionate about helping people and building relationships of trust in the community.
This election is a pivotal moment for the future of Saanich and we need strong leadership to get the job done. As a city councillor, I will bring good governance and my core values of integrity, honesty, and fairness to the table.
What are your top three issues?
My key priorities for Saanich are protecting and enhancing the natural environment, working with other levels of government to create affordable housing, and maintaining and improving infrastructure, all while being fiscally responsible. The current economic downturn amid rising inflation is going to be a challenge for residents to cope with and we must do everything in our power to alleviate further financial burdens while ensuring core services, infrastructure, and new projects continue to be maintained. By ensuring stability for people we can enhance their quality of life and help mitigate the effects of climate change and cost of living.
What’s your vision for your community in 25 years?
My vision for Saanich in 25 years is that it is an environmentally enhanced community with more protected parks, ecosystems, and accessible green spaces than today. It will have a world class transportation network including bike lanes, safer streets, and electrified transit. A leading green economy, where businesses that contribute to and enhance our environment are excited to be established here. Where affordable housing is ample while being seamlessly integrated into our communities. Where the arts and culture thrive with vibrant community engagement. Most of all, I envision a Saanich where people are more connected to each other and nature, and where we deal with the issues we collectively face together.
What’s one “big idea” you have for your community?
Saanich needs a public town centre that unifies the region and brings people together. I have a vision of a reimagined Saanich Plaza with housing, government services, a Saanich Art Gallery, performance space, and green space. Working with partners and other levels of government, I believe we can make this area into the vibrant central hub of Saanich where people live, work, and play.
