A former Columbia Valley journalist and popular photographer Stephanie Stevens is taking aim at one of the four available District of Invermere council seats in the Nov. 19 election.

“I grew up in the valley, graduated high school, got married and raised my children here,” Stevens began in a release to e-KNOW. “At 27 I went back to school, earned my journalism diploma and was a reporter at The Valley Echo for five years. As a journalist I was able to connect, and often further the cause of, with nearly every group in the valley at one time or another, including three of our local governments. I won several awards there, including The BC Solicitor General’s award for community service and crime prevention. After my tenure at The Echo I ran The Summit Youth Centre, first as program coordinator and later as executive director. Currently I am a rancher with my husband Tony,” she outlined.

The three biggest issues facing Invermere, according to Stevens: “definitely affordable housing (both rental and purchase) has been an issue here for a long time, one that councils past and present have struggled with. Social services are also a big concern of mine, for youth, seniors, those struggling with mental health or substance addictions. While we do have these services, ensuring they grow and are supported to match the growth of Invermere and the entire valley are crucial issues.

“We also need to look at our economic growth, and balancing that with environmental stewardship. Our young people need to able to complete their post secondary, or further their training, and be able to realistically look at creating their own homes, raising their own families, here. Many families already struggle to make ends meet. Is light industry the answer? More entrepreneurs? I would like to be a part of that exploration,” she presented.

“Why vote for me? I grew up here in the valley and I have been very involved with it, from Pothole Park clean-ups I organized to the youth centre to the Rockies Hockey Club and sitting on various volunteer boards including the Advisory Planning Council for the Regional District,” Stevens said. “I have always made a point, particularly as a journalist, to learn, in depth, about the issues that concern our community members, to get to know not just those directly involved with my work, but people all walks of life. I believe strongly that being a good leader means listening, and understanding my point of view is not the only one that counts. I have considered running for council for several years, and now I am at a point in life where I can dedicate the time and energy it will need,” she said.

e-KNOW

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