1. How long have you lived here?
I have been an active member of the community of Cache Creek for four years. My wife and I relocated here from the lower mainland when we decided to settle down and start a family.
2. What is your occupation?
My employment is varied within our local area. I am a substitute teacher for School District No. 74. I am seasonally employed as an actor and art director in films that are being developed and filmed in the area. I also work alongside my family, who own and operate the Sage and Sands Mobile Home Park in Cache Creek. As well, I am endeavouring to become an entrepreneur with my own small filmography business.
3. Have you done any volunteer work here? Which group(s)?
I have been a part of several volunteer organizations over the years, including The Winding Rivers Arts & Performance Society, the Cache Creek Volunteer Fire Department, the Graffiti Days Committee, the Wellness Festival, the Ash/Creek TV Society, and have worked with various other community groups without being a full-time member.
4. Have you served before on Council?
I have not served on any municipal council. However, my political aspirations started in school, where I was the Junior Premier for two years. I was also involved with the Young Liberals group as a young adult.
5. Which issues are most important to you?
Increased tourism, business sustainability, and population growth.
6. How would you address them?
I would address these issues by starting with film tourism. I will publicize our area, and in turn bring more people through Cache Creek. More tourism brings more business, more business attracts more people.
The higher the population, the more options there are for local resources, such as a fully functioning hospital, as well as more support for vulnerable groups including low-income families and seniors, among other groups.
7. Additional comments.
I am the Smart choice for Cache Creek, because I believe that anything is possible, and giving up is never an option. Our village is already coming into a new chapter, and if I am elected my contemporary outlook and ambitious nature will help usher in a positive change in the years ahead.
If you would like to chat with me I would love to hear from you. Please e-mail garethsmart0@gmail.com or find me on Facebook for more information relating to my campaign.
Advance voting takes place at the Cache Creek Municipal Office (1389 Quartz Road) from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily from Monday, June 20 to Friday, June 24. General Voting Day is Saturday, June 25 from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Cache Creek Municipal Office.