Erin Hemmens, Nanaimo City Councillor

My sincere gratitude to the residents who attended the open office hours at the library on Friday. Conversation ranged across a variety of topics, including active transportation, downtown, neighbourhood associations and the city’s strategic plan. My favourite comment of the session: We wouldn’t have a downtown if we didn’t have small local businesses, so how do we better support them? Followed closely by If we have a question, can we just call the city and ask? [The answer is Yes!! You can always call city hall with questions.] Next session is scheduled for June 13th at the North Nanaimo branch from 11-1.

A VIU Masters of community planning student wrote their thesis on the development of our downtown waterfront lands: https://viurrspace.ca/handle/10613/10630 I dig it.

A reminder that I will be at the Harbourfront library from 11-1 this coming Friday. Would love to see your face, hear your thoughts. If no one shows, I will drink copious amounts of coffee and get started on next week's reading.

Dear Nanaimo, The past 4 months, abridged: Love this work and so appreciative of the people I get to do it with. Busy. So many meetings, so much to learn, LOTS of reading. Staff are impressive, to say the least. Grateful for the many people who have shared their thoughts, ideas, frustrations and stories with me it all helps.... I’ve booked the following dates/times at the library so folks can come and chat in person. I’ll assess these as we go and add/adjust as needed. A sign will be placed at the entrance so you know where to find me. Of course, I’m always available by email at [email protected] April 5th, Harbourfront branch, 11-1 June 13th, North Nanaimo branch, 11-1 September 6th, Harbourfront branch, 11-1 The draft strategic plan is up on the city’s website and we value your input: https://www.nanaimo.ca//NR190311CouncilSeekingFeedbackOnTh My gratitude to each and every one of you for being engaged and thoughtful about who we are as a city, and where we want to go. Current bedtime reading - Frank Ney: A Canadian Legend. A good reminder that pirate costumes and politics DO mix. Working on Leonard Warmly, Erin

Anyone need a sled? I have a few on hand ...