How I view the role of trustees
Trustees are responsible for the overall governance of the GFPID, including setting priorities and making decisions that affect the district’s operations. Trustees are expected to act in the best interest of the community, focusing on the long-term resilience and service quality of fire protection services.
What I think is needed
While progress has been made in recent years to increase transparency and accountability to Gabriola taxpayers, I believe there is still more work to be done. Strong financial oversight and leadership grounded in sound governance will support effective operations, streamline board meetings, and ultimately help Gabriolans feel confident that the GFPID is delivering high-quality fire protection services at a reasonable cost.
I believe the 10-year long-range plan would benefit from more clearly defined deliverables that can be measured using Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). These deliverables should include both quantitative and qualitative metrics and clearly outline how they will be achieved and over what time period. The taxpayers of Gabriola deserve transparency and accountability, and a well-defined long-range plan is one way the GFPID can demonstrate progress and responsible stewardship.
In the current economic climate, it is more important than ever that the GFPID maintains strong financial oversight to ensure that a clear business case supports the use of taxpayer dollars. The GFPID Board would benefit from additional work in governance, including proper recordkeeping, effective meeting procedures, and transparency. Strengthening governance will support the development of policies and procedures that benefit the organization over the long term and ensure strong continuity. Work in these areas will also help rebuild trust within the Gabriola community and reinforce that the GFPID operates with the same professionalism demonstrated by the GVFD firefighters.
Final thoughts
From 2020–2022, I served with the Gabriola Volunteer Fire Department. I want to acknowledge the dedication of the volunteer firefighters who serve Gabriola. Supporting them and ensuring they have the resources they need to protect our community should always remain central to the Board’s work.