Why have I decided to run for Mayor?
I have been approached by numerous people for advice, many of whom have expressed concerns regarding the current leadership at City Hall. People are saying that when I left City Hall, there was a clear path forward. They are also saying that Nelson is at a crossroads: Voters need to consider whether Nelson will be better off than it is today if we have 4 more years of the leadership style of the current Mayor…..or do we need to rethink our direction? Obviously, I think we need a change in direction.
I feel renewed and want to commit myself to the next four years in order to get our community back on track. With Council, I want to focus on a number of priorities that will ensure City Hall is working well to enhance the quality of life for all generations in this city that we love so much.
The mandate of municipal government is clear and I am committed to ensuring that Council is focused on things that they are accountable for. In addition, the Mayor is the voice, face and advocate for the city and plays an important role in influencing all levels of government responsible for a range of things that are important to our overall quality of life.
As Mayor, I took pride in being available, passionate, hardworking and engaged. Having spent 15 years at City Hall, 9 as Mayor, I have the experience and knowledge of how municipal government should function. My wife Pat and I have been residents of Nelson for over 40 years and have raised our family here. I worked as a small business owner, an employer and employee. I believe in giving back and as such have been a lifelong Nelson volunteer. I’m very passionate about and proud of Nelson.
After leaving public life 4 years ago, I have continued to volunteer on several boards and agencies while returning to the private sector. I believe that the added experience I gained over the past 4 years will benefit our city.
2011-2014 Accomplishments
Advocated for improved health care services, and opened new Emergency Ward with CT scanner.
Improved core services, with a focus on re-building our infrastructure.
Recognized and awarded for our environmental stewardship,
Increased access to arts, culture, and recreation facilities including art in public places, developed a new skate and bike park, Davies St Parks.
Facilitated improvements to student, seniors and affordable housing.
Moved the Nelson transfer station, freeing up land for future use.
Supported Rail town development through demolition of the old CP diesel shop, and transfer of the CP station to the Chamber of Commerce.
Enhanced regional relationships, resulting in more cooperative planning and provision of financial services to 3 small communities.
Elected to Federation of Canadian Municipalities and chair of the FCM BC Caucus, resulting in demonstrated financial benefits to the City of Nelson and area.
About John Dooley
VOLUNTEER ACCOMPLISHMENTS
As a coach, volunteer and municipal leader, I have worked on and supported:
Capitol Theater Restoration
Nelson and District Community Complex, including major pool upgrade
Permanent home for the Glacier Gymnastics club
Lakeside soccer fields
Lions Park rink
Nelson Leafs bottle depot and recycling initiatives
Waterfront dog park
Lions Park ball diamond
Indoor soccer fields
Arts in public places
PERSONAL HISTORY
Moved to Nelson in 1975
Owner of John Dooley Drywall and Stucco
Operator, Amerispec Home Inspection Services
Community volunteer from 1975 – present
Founding member, Nelson and Area Friends of the Family
Founder and coach, Grinders Hockey School
Founder and coach, Sidekicks Soccer School
Past member, Nelson Kinsmen Club and Nelson Daybreak Rotary Club
Past president and manager, Nelson Senior Leafs
Past Board member, Nelson Minor Hockey and Nelson Minor Soccer
Appointed to Columbia Basin Trust Board (2014-2017)
Current positions:
President, Nelson Leafs
Director, Nelson and District Chamber of Commerce
Community Relations Consultant, Interoute Construction
Community Relations/Municipal Relations, Interior Lumber Manufacturers' Association