Meet Whitehorse's 2015 municipal election candidates

Voters in Whitehorse's Oct. 15 municipal election will see a long list of names on their ballot. Some candidates will be familiar, having been on council before, while others are new to the political ring. CBC Yukon asked each candidate to tell a bit about themselves, their priorities and why voters should tick their name. 

Responses are listed in the order CBC Yukon received them.

Candidates for Whitehorse mayor 

WILF CARTER: Born in Nova Scotia, I attended the following universities: St. Francis Xavier, Saint Mary's and Alberta. My experience includes management in municipal services, infrastructure, housing, economic development and in private business.

Biggest issue: Need to improve city operations to stabilize costs, review the $54 million building, crimestoppers program, developing green energy like solar and wind, work with business on city bylaws and skills training for kids to improve their career needs.

I bring to the mayor's position the experience, knowledge, skills, vision of the people as well as a passion and love of Whitehorse and its people.

DAN CURTIS: It's been nearly three years since I was elected mayor and it's been a privilege and an honour to represent the citizens of Whitehorse. I'm a born and raised Yukoner, I met my wife here and we've raised our children here. I've never left except for college and I have no intention of ever leaving.

Continuing to work on affordable sustainable housing is my priority and continuing to foster intergovernmental relations with all levels of government. 

I have fostered some great working relationships and partnerships with the First Nations government of Whitehorse and with the Whitehorse business community and I will always act on what's best for the majority of citizens of Whitehorse. 

MANDEEP SIDHU: No profile or photo submitted.

Candidates for Whitehorse city council 

ROSLYN WOODCOCK: I'm 44 years old and have lived in Whitehorse since 1999. I have a degree in city planning and human geography and a certificate in public administration. I own two small businesses and before that was a federal manager for over 10 years. I love the New York Times Crossword but am rarely able to complete a whole one without intervention. I am involved with the Potluck Food Cooperative and the United Way. 

Improving the relationship with the Yukon Government comes up a lot lately. We are a small territory, with little tax base and we all need to work together to accomplish anything effectively so this issue affects almost every other issue that might come up. The city needs to work better with Yukon Government but Yukon Government needs work well with the city too.

I have the education, experience and background to hit the ground running once the election is done. 

PETER JICKLING: I'm a playwright and journalist born in Whitehorse General Hospital 34 years ago. Though I have lived elsewhere, including Lethbridge, where I obtained an honours BA in philosophy, I have always returned home. Throughout my career, the generosity of Whitehorse citizens has inspired me, and running for city council is one way I can repay this inspiration. 

With a rising population, I believe it is socially and environmentally responsible to make efficient use of our urban and suburban space; action now will prevent compounding problems in the future. 

I am nothing if not a political newcomer. As such, I have much to learn from the people I am hoping to serve. If elected I will value openness over secrecy and curiosity over dogma. I look forward to hearing from you. 

JENS NIELSEN: I was born and raised right here in Whitehorse. I lived outside, on Vancouver Island for a spell and have returned to finish my life where it began. I love the Yukon.

The biggest issue is respecting taxes, prioritising spending and listening to common sense. I have also strong feelings on the issues of poverty, hunger, and homelessness. Note: I have started working on a "Give Local" campaign I hope to launch next year.

I would be only one voice on council. So vote with your heart first. Choose your favourite candidates, but please make me one of your choices also. Let's send a clear and concise message to city management, staff, and council, that respecting taxes and prioritising expenses are important, wildly important.

FRANCINE THIVIERGE  I am 64. Retired. Originally from Quebec City and lived most of my life in Vancouver. Married 30 years. Mother of 4 adult children. Moved my financial planning business to Whitehorse in 2004. Long term member of Rotary (Rendezvous club). Love being a Grandma, driving my Fusion Sport, entertaining, coffee, cribbage, travel, my .308 rifle, pink 20 gage shotgun, and hunting, camping and enjoying Yukon's incredible nature. 

Our number one immediate issue is affordability. That includes cost of housing/rent, services and our ever-increasing property taxes. A close second is the long term issue of vision, a key plan of which I think should include planning and action to turn our city from Whitehorse to "Greenhorse." 

I am very good with numbers, management minded, a quick learner, tough, determined, intuitive, creative, a problem solver/solution finder and feel I would be a strong voice on council for dealing with programs and issues, and working effectively with city bureaucracy.

BETTY IRWIN: A long-time resident of Whitehorse, I'm an interprovincially certified tradesperson and was one of the founding members of Yukon Women in Trades.  I have worked for government, owned two successful businesses, have served two terms on City Council and am a recipient of The Commissioner's Award for Public Service.

 A council's top jobs are: (1) shaping and re-shaping the city into a vibrant, creative, safe and sustainable community; (2) delivering public services at affordable prices; and (3) making the financial decisions which will accomplish the first two. Everything else is just a subset of those three objectives.

Vote for me so that I can be part of a council that will have the courage and vision to make the hard decisions which will continue to make Whitehorse the best place to live, work and play.

SAMSON HARTLAND: I'm a married father of three, 3rd generation Yukoner. I was raised in Whitehorse and attended F. H. Collins before opening up a shop on Main Street while concurrently providing American Sign Language interpretive services. I am currently employed by the Yukon Chamber of Mines and enjoy volunteering as well as spending time with my family, enjoying all our City has to offer.

I believe the key issue is building and improving on intergovernmental relations between all orders of government. It is through respectful and collaborative relationships that we can solve some of the outstanding issues facing our community including accessibility, affordable housing, vulnerable people, and improving on the already amazing quality of life we have all come to enjoy.

With experience from a previous stint on Council from 2000 to 2003 when I was 21, I have learned invaluable lessons both then and along the way through career and personal development. If elected I will seek greater transparency and improved relationships with governments in order to make Whitehorse the best place in Canada to work, live and play.

JOCELYN CURTEANU: I'm employed full time with the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency. I married my high school sweetheart 26 years ago and we have four children and three dogs. Originally from the Philippines, I was raised and educated in both the Philippines and Canada but in all the places I've lived, Whitehorse is the place I feel most at home.

I believe the City should make it a priority to build partnerships and collaborative relationships with other orders of government and community organizations.  There are many significant issues that need to be addressed in the city like affordable housing, poverty and homelessness, waste diversion and by building relationships and combining resources we can achieve positive outcomes in a more effective and efficient manner. 

It has been an honour and a privilege to serve the citizens of Whitehorse these past three years.  With all that I've learned, the work that has been completed, and with much more to do, I genuinely have the best interests of our community at heart and would appreciate your continued support as I run for my second term in the 2015 Whitehorse municipal election.

PHILIPPE PRAPROTNIK: I've lived in Whitehorse for over five years and am currently working for a nonprofit organization. I am an outdoor enthusiast and am involved in the sporting life, in fact I am a coach and judge for archery. 

My top issue is taxes and the way it increased in the last few years. I will not vote for any increase above the cost of living. I will monitor the expenses at the City Hall.

Vote for me because I really want to get involved in decisions of my municipality. Being part of the team of councillors and representing the interests of the people of Whitehorse, without favouring any pressure group or lobby, I would answer the best questions from the citizens.

HELEN GEISLER: I arrived in Whitehorse in 1980 to attend college and then started work with the City of Whitehorse. After 28 years of service, I moved over to the government of Yukon where I currently work. I am married and we have three dogs. I also have two step-children, four step-grandchildren, one great step-grandchild with another one on the way. I enjoy reading, camping, spending time with my family, playing poker and am a huge fan of the CFL 

My first issue is accountability taken by Mayor, Council and City of Whitehorse employees. There is a definite lack of accountability and it is a concern.  My second issue is affordable housing for low income family and senior citizens. My parents are senior citizens who have a dog and they haven't been able to find affordable living accommodations for over five years.

Please vote for me as I have over 28 years experience working for the city but, most importantly, I wish to be the voice of ALL citizens of the city of Whitehorse

CAM KOS: I have lived throughout the territories with my wife and children for the past 23 years working for Environment, Education, Justice, Health, and presently as a manager in Highways and Public Works. I have volunteered for the Arctic Winter Games, Porter Creek Community Association, and presently on a school council. I enjoy fishing, camping, being outdoors, and experiencing all that Whitehorse has to offer!

One of the biggest issues for the city is ensuring we are listening to what the community wants. There are many voices and opinions not being heard and I feel as a councillor it is your responsibility to represent the residents and be their voice. Many of the major issues from housing, to sports, to taxes, stem from a lack of communication, limited understanding, or residents just not being heard and becoming frustrated.

Vote for me because I will listen, I will be your voice, and I'm not afraid to speak up. I have heard many of the issues that have been brought forward to past councils while attending many council sessions, public hearings, and committee meetings, and will work toward helping build a positive city that our families and future generations will be able to experience and enjoy. 

KEITH ELLERT: I was born and raised in Calgary, Alberta. A single parent; my son and I moved to Whitehorse in 1998 after accepting a job with a local radio station. We planned on spending one year in Whitehorse, but quickly fell in love with the city and its people and have called it home ever since.

The number one priority for Whitehorse is identity (our city's Mission Statement is so painfully generic it is meaningless). As we move forward, while respecting our history, careful consideration must be taken regarding our community of tomorrow, what we wish to achieve, and how we will achieve it. A new, more specific Mission Statement should provide the guidelines for which all other issues of policy and governance will be addressed.

My 15 years as a local radio broadcaster gave me a daily opportunity to come to know, understand, and love the city of Whitehorse and its residents (and for them to know me). I feel I have an intimate knowledge of what is important to the people of our city, will stand up for what is in their best interest, and will not hesitate to speak up for what is not.

DAN BOYD: I'm a life-long resident of Whitehorse. I have enjoyed successful careers in both the private and public sectors, as well as two terms on Council. My wife Susan and I have three adult children and three wonderful grandchildren. Two of our children continue to make Whitehorse their home. 

My primary concern is the city's failure to consistently demonstrate fiscal responsibility, which is resulting in a constant increase in taxes. Most urgently, we need to take a serious second look at the proposed $56 million to be spent on two new municipal buildings, as these new projects will undoubtedly result in a demand for even more taxes. 

Should you decide to vote for me, I will bring knowledge, experience and a proven track record to council. I will speak my mind and challenge the system for the benefit of Whitehorse residents.   

GARTH BROWN: I've been in Whitehorse for 15 years. 

I'm tired of watching people fall down with no place to sleep, drunk and no after-care. I'm trying to push for an end to homelessness and home security. I want to see an after-care program established for people to work out their problems. 

Vote for me because I've been there, I've been down and I think I made a pretty good comeback. I've been clean and sober for seven years and I'd like to give someone else a chance to accomplish that. 

LOUIS GAGNON: I'm 53 and live with my family: my wife, Bobbi Rhodes, our three children; Dakota 17, Olivier 10, and Lilli, seven. We have lived here for nine years. My background is in hospitality; I am a hospitality industry consultant and entrepreneur. I presently own the "Garlic a GoGo Mediterranean To Go" food truck.

Depending on where you stand as a stakeholder, the number one issues vary, but as a community, there are a few that concern and affect all of us. Affordable housing, downtown and economic development, recycling/waste management, sports and rec (CGC, skateboarding, soccer, etc.), taxes, homelessness.

I believe a city should promote, facilitate and foster opportunities both social and economic, and in doing so, participate in the community and engage its citizens to participate as well. We need a collaborative, responsive, informative and most importantly an inclusive approach so that YOU the stakeholders can make the right decisions for the future.

DAVE STOCKDALE: I am married have three children and six grandchildren. I am a retired school teacher and have lived in Whitehorse for 47 years. I have been on City Council for 32 years.

The number one issue for Whitehorse is to continue delivering the basic services. Water and sewer, garbage pick-up, paved roads, etc. After that, to complete our B. C. P. (Building Consolidation Project) which will make our operations more efficient, save $500,000, and provide a safer workplace for our employees.

Why you should vote for me: I have been on Council for 32 years and have a proven record. I still enjoy being involved, have the time to do the job and have the experience to know what I'm doing.

ROB FENDRICK: My family moved to Whitehorse from Inuvik in 1965; I went to school and grew up here, it's my hometown.  I am educated in finance, accounting, and public administration and have over 10 years experience in private industry and 17 years experience in the public sector in a municipal setting.  Local government is a passion of mine and I can give back as a councillor by balancing family first and then my other interests including my consulting work.

Number 1 issue: Affordable attainable housing is my number one issue. I feel there is a great opportunity for the city to match Yukon Housing funding; this funding runs out in 2017. This is an area that cities do not delve into very much, especially in the Yukon.  However, this is an excellent opportunity to get a pilot project out of the ground and get something done.

Why should you vote for me? You should vote for me because I have the municipal and fiscal experience to do a great job as a councillor. I think Whitehorse is one of the best places anywhere to live, it's always treated me fairly, and I can give back.

GEORGE ARCAND: I'm the executive director of Softball Yukon and president of Sport Yukon. I've lived in Whitehorse for 45 years and am the father of two sons, one who remains a citizen of Whitehorse and the other who is a member of the Canadian Air Force. I have spent the past 30 years working with members of our community in support of developing a healthy and vibrant place to call home.

Council needs to work in a more collaborative, positive way with citizens, staff and stakeholders; have a stronger, more respectful, transparent and honest relationship with all levels of government; and maintain and support the city focus on sport and recreation programs and facilities for the health and well-being of citizens.

Vote for me because I have a firm grasp of fiscal accountability and extensive experience managing and executing international events, bringing a diverse and valuable range of skills to the table. I have worked collaboratively with all levels of government as well as members of the community, volunteers and stakeholders.

MICAH QUINN: I'm an experienced teacher, geographer, and small business owner. I am always up for a challenge, whether it's writing this bio, hiking the entire 4,300 kilometer Pacific Crest Trail from Mexico to Canada, or opening the Watershed Coffeeshop & Bar in downtown Whitehorse.

My priorities if elected include more city land dedicated to accessible housing; implementation of curbside recycling pickup to extend the life of the landfill; enhancing community safety and youth engagement; and promoting small business growth and development.

Through my work as a teacher and cafe owner, I am passionate about helping to develop positive individuals and communities. If given the privilege to serve on city council I would work hard to foster a vibrant private sector, nurturing a supportive business climate where entrepreneurs can flourish; and maintaining healthy green spaces and natural environments for everyone to enjoy. I also pledge to donate ten per cent of my councillor salary to a local charity.

SERGE MICHAUD: For the past 16 years I have worked hard as executive director for Special Olympics Yukon. I grew up in the west island of Montreal. I spend most of my free time with my wife and step kids and their various activities. I enjoy the odd round of golf and always seem to wind up in my garage working on some type of project.

I think the biggest priority for Whitehorse today is creating a clear plan for success. You cannot tackle issues such as homelessness, environmental sustainability, accessibility for all and community safety without a straightforward plan that all residents have the opportunity to provide input towards.

The people of Whitehorse need someone who will represent their needs, wants and concerns on city council. I have a proven track record of listening to and learning from the people I serve. I believe in pragmatic leadership values and a strong sense of fiscal responsibility and accountability.

KEN GIAM: I was born in Singapore, immigrated to Canada in 1993 and moved to Whitehorse in 2006. I have a Bachelor of Science from the University of Lethbridge and a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Regina. My previous work experience include being a police inspector for five years, a human rights investigator for five years, and social worker for about 11 years. I am married to Elaine and we have an eight year old son, Zephaniah. I am the owner of Premier Cabs, Grizzley Bear Taxi, Bear Country Pawn Shop and Heavenly Bit Bake and Cafe.  

Reasons for running: disabled people deserve more than what is available to them. Disabled people must be able to feel equal and respected. Most of all, disabled people must be able to feel compassion. Mental illness has caused many people to be homeless, and many more are in jail. Disabled people have been denied employment, services and housing. If I am elected, my top priority is to be a voice for people with physical and mental disability.

MIKE TRAVILL: I'm a 56 year old single father of one teenage daughter. I've been a resident of Whitehorse for 18 years and was raised in Kingston, Ontario. I own and operate Mikes' New and Used retail store and pawn shop. Prior to this I was the Workers Advocate at the Department of Justice and the first vice president of the Yukon Employees Union.

Whitehorse's downtown core is developing and modernizing. We need to look towards the needs of our citizens who utilize the downtown core; it needs to be accessible especially for our seniors and must also take into account the needs of the less fortunate at the same time as being safe and inviting. 

I have strong listening skills, I am always accessible and a forceful and effective advocate for my fellow constituents. I have a great deal of experience negotiating with all levels of government and some of the largest corporations in the Yukon.  

PATRICK SINGH: I was born in London, England, although my ethnic roots are from India and the Fiji Islands. I moved to Whitehorse in 1991 and couldn't imagine living anywhere else. I'm a musician, an entrepreneur, a pet owner and a family man. I enjoy communicating with fellow citizens while running my hot dog stand on the corner of Main and Third Avenue. 

Affordable housing is my number one concern, not just for the hard to house but for young people and older citizens who are on their own and can't afford to pay high rental rates. Accessibility for people with disabilities and mobility issues is also at the top of my list. Let's keep the sidewalks safe and clear of debris — perhaps a simple thing such as snow removal for a home that houses a person with a disability and has mobility issue or perhaps make some of our trails more accessible.

Whitehorse is my home and I'm protective and proud to live here. I see so much potential, we should be supporting music and the arts and promoting tourism. We are so rich with local First Nations history it would be wonderful to showcase it more within our community. I believe that creativity and communication are powerful tools to help our community. 

Christine O'Connor was originally listed as a candidate for Whitehorse city council, but she withdrew her name before the list was finalized.