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Andrew Leonard
Mayor, Bowen Island
Andrew Leonard is the current Mayor of Bowen Island Municipality, a small island community located at the entrance to Howe Sound in British Columbia, Canada.24 He was elected to this position in October 2022, riding a community-focused campaign to victory.4
Background and Experience
Andrew Leonard has over twenty years of experience in program design, delivery, and evaluation for human services agencies.3 His strong organizational skills and background in community service have likely contributed to his success in local politics.
Political Platform
As a mayoral candidate, Leonard focused on several key issues:
Transparency and Engagement:: He emphasized the need for clear, honest communication between the municipality and residents, particularly regarding important local matters.1
Environmental Stewardship:: Leonard stressed the importance of preserving Bowen Island's rural and wild landscape in the face of population growth and development pressures.1
Fiscal Responsibility:: He advocated for careful financial management, given the significant increases in property taxes and municipal operating budgets in recent years.1
Current Responsibilities
As Mayor, Andrew Leonard serves on several Metro Vancouver committees, including:
- Climate Action Committee
- Electoral Area Committee
- Regional Parks Committee2
These roles indicate his involvement in regional issues beyond Bowen Island itself.
Leadership Approach
Leonard's approach to leadership appears to be community-oriented and focused on engagement. He has expressed a desire to transform the way the Council interacts with committees and citizens, aiming for a more open and inclusive governance style.1 His campaign slogan, "Who's coming with me?", reflects this collaborative approach to addressing the island's challenges.4