Danielle Eaton is hoping to help ensure continued community growth and municipal transparency by seeking another term on Cranbrook city council.
Eaton, elected along with a slate of all-new candidates four years ago, says she has worked hard to keep her campaign promises from the 2014 campaign.
“I am proud of the work that has been done by our Council,” said Eaton. “We did what we said we were going to do. We have seen an increase in vibrancy of our downtown, an increase in the number of new businesses; and a greater arts, culture, festival and events presence, such as The Grand Slam of Curling, Rogers Hometown Hockey, and 55+ BC Games.
“With the completion of our asset management plan, we have been able to accomplish a lot of infrastructure work and created a long-term plan to reduce our infrastructure deficit, which is seen in our roads program and Idlewild.”
Eaton says she wants to address the housing crisis in Cranbrook, and met with Selena Robinson, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, this year at an annual gathering of municipal and provincial politicians.
“We have so little housing available that is financially attainable to majority of our residents,” said Eaton. “It’s impacting our low-income families, youth, and seniors the worst. It’s unacceptable, but it’s a result of growth.
“Since we as a Council are taking credit for the growth, we also need to take responsibility for the issues that come with growth. This is why we are working with the Province, BC Housing, and local developers to come up with a solution. This is going to be a major focus for me during the next term.”
In addition to tackling the housing crisis, Eaton wants to turn her attention to seniors issues, after focusing on youth initiatives due, in part, to her three children.
“I am at the point in my life where I have young children, so youth in our community really matter me. I want a great community for all of our children,” said Eaton. “However, I have also come to the point in my life where I have aging parents. I will of course continue to support youth and youth programming in a big way.
“I did support the recent senior care home development, but I also know I can do a lot more. I think it’s a natural progression at this point in my life. Seniors deserve a lot more of my focus. I have to. I need to know that my parents — and all seniors — have the supports they need to age comfortably and with dignity in Cranbrook.”
Eaton is active on social media, particularly Facebook, which she says is an effective way to engage with residents and provide transparency.
“It is a place that they can ask questions and find answers,” Eaton said. “I have learned a lot in the past four years. I feel I have earned my place at the table and have found my voice. Residents deserve a high level of transparency. That is what I have been working toward and will continue to work to improve.”
Eaton and her husband both own separate businesses in the downtown area, and are involved with many initiatives and organizations such as Cranbrook Community Theatre, Cranbrook and District 4-H, Sam Steele Sweethearts Youth Ambassador Program, Cranbrook Minor Ball, and the Kootenay Ice.