My official campaign launch

MEDIA RELEASE

For Immediate Release
July 30, 2008

Resident enviro advocate enters Saanich race

Victoria – Dean Murdock has announced that he will run for Saanich Council and CRD Board in November’s municipal election. Murdock, who chairs the Sierra Club Victoria Group and is Vice President of the Quadra Cedar Hill Community Association, said that better public transit, affordable housing, and environmental protection are his priorities.

“People tell me on the doorstep that the cost of gas is leaving them with few options,” Murdock said, “We need desirable, affordable, and low-emission transportation options in our region.”

On the issue of housing affordability, Murdock added, “This is a great place to live, but I’m hearing from young families that it’s becoming unaffordable. That’s not how you sustain an economy or a vibrant community.”

“Climate action and environmental leadership are priorities for most folks I talk to,” Murdock said, “We have to respect and retain the natural beauty and temperate climate our region offers.”

In the fall, Murdock will release his full campaign platform, including transportation, affordable housing, and climate and environmental leadership as priority initiatives.

Murdock has worked hard with community and environmental groups, including the Cool Capital Coalition of 26 groups, which pressed the CRD to adopt the Regional Climate Action Plan in January this year. He also serves as a community representative on transportation and environmental advisory committees for Saanich and the CRD.

“I believe that my years of work in the community have given me the knowledge and experience to provide a strong and effective voice at the Saanich Council and CRD tables,” Murdock said, “I’m running because I’m excited about our future and want to ensure that we protect the quality and character of this great place we call home.”

Murdock works for the BC Ministry of Health Services as a Manager of Health Sector Monitoring. He and his wife have lived in Saanich for more than fifteen years.