Jennifer Saltman - The Province - May 15

A Surrey teen who thinks his city is heading in the wrong direction has decided to run for council in November.

If he’s elected, it’s believed 18-year-old blogger Paul Hillsdon would be the youngest-ever Surrey councillor.

“I think I have a lot of the leadership skills that are necessary for a position like this,” Hillsdon said.

“I have a lot of good ideas.”

Hillsdon’s platform builds on the idea of sustainability and has four pillars: sustainable development, green spaces, vibrant communities and transportation options.

A “green building strategy” would require a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) gold standard for all municipal buildings and encourage developers to green private developments.

Affordable housing is included in Hillsdon’s development plan.

His agenda for green spaces includes a “nature network strategy” covering the expansion, protection, enhancement and connection of green spaces.

To create vibrant communities, Hillsdon would encourage vitalized town centres, expand services for youths and seniors and improve communication between the city and residents.

Transit and transportation are close to Hillsdon’s heart, because he grew up in Cloverdale and used public transit regularly.

He would like to see attractive, effective bus facilities, an expanded cycling network, a rapid-transit plan, a progressive traffic-calming strategy and a green municipal fleet.

“A lot of the ideas in my platform are part of a larger public awareness,” Hillsdon said. “Sustainability is huge right now.”

Having looked at the city’s recent financial reports, Hillsdon said the projects would require a small tax increase, if that, and reallocation of existing funds.

“Most of my ideas are very minimal investments and, while not necessarily completely new, they’re cheap compared to most things,” he said.

Hillsdon is a Grade 12 student at the online school Surrey Connect, but because of his youth and background feels he is representative of a young, diverse community.

He also believes that, like many Surrey residents, he’s not being heard by city council.

“[Mayor] Dianne Watts has done a lot of good things for the city,” he said, “but things could always be better. Considering the power that [councillors] have, they don’t contribute enough in their positions.”

When asked about his chances in November, Hillsdon chuckled and said: “I’m optimistic. I wouldn’t put in all of this time if I didn’t think it was possible.”

His website is www.paulin08.com.