As far as the Imperial Landing (Steveston boardwalk) development discussions go, Roy Sakata, a longtime Steveston resident, has arguably proposed the most unique solution.
Sakata wants to work with all levels of government to build what he calls a Maritime Action Research and Library Centre.
Like many, he opposes turning the site into a strip mall.
But Sakata is one of few candidates to specifically cite the fragile Fraser River ecosystem as an important election issue. On Nov. 11 at the Steveston Buddhist Temple he hosts an open forum with an expert biologist on the local marine environment.
Sakata believes “the enhancement of the pristine Richmond Sturgeon Bank is essential.”
Sturgeon Bank is eroding at a vigorous pace, which will pose a greater flood threat, not to mention loss of habitat for juvenile salmon and countless animals.
You may know Sakata from being around town. He’s a former principal of Manoah Steves Elementary school and says he helped preserve Scotch Pond in Steveston.
Sakata says Richmond City Council suffers from a sort of “group think” and he’s determined to think outside the box, such as with his maritime centre.
Among his other goals on council are: to strengthen communication between council and citizens, keep expenditures and taxes low (factoring in inflationary pressures), and to advocate for affordable houses for both purchase and rent.
He said he’s inspired to work even harder for his community after recently losing his wife to cancer. He noted he wants to improve intergovernmental relations as well, noting his wife was lost in the healthcare system and local politicians did little to communicate his concerns.
Sakata is also holding a forum Thursday, Nov. 6 on community noise and chronic health. Call Sakata at 604-447-2285 for more information on the forums.
