Challenging times lie ahead for all levels of government. As a Councillor in the City, I will work diligently to gain maximum value for your tax dollars, while at the same time respond attentively to the requests, concerns and issues that are directed to Council.
A key component in creating a vibrant, cohesive community is to address the varied needs of a growing and diverse population. These needs come from a myriad of constituents that include homeowners, renters, business owners, employees, seniors, community associations, plus arts & culture, recreation and sports groups. My intent is to listen to the concerns of individuals and groups and discuss their issues; consider relevant City staff reports and other related information; and engage in discussion with my fellow Council members to arrive at decisions that serve our community well.
While listening to, and talking with, many residents and businesses, I've identified the following as key priorities for Council:
- Limit tax increases. Exercise prudent management of all spending.
- Manage development density to protect and improve the livability of our City, based on our Official Community Plan.
- Improve our cultural, recreation, sports facilities and parks and public spaces (Art Gallery, Museum, Harry Jerome Recreation Centre, Waterfront areas).
- Promote a climate where businesses can prosper and create jobs.
- Improve transit and SeaBus service. Pursue a new bus depot.
- Plan for a variety of housing options to meet the changing needs of young people, families and seniors.
I look forward to working with the people of the City of North Vancouver and Council to move forward on these priorities.
Contact Info
Email: dbell@cnv.org
Phone: 778-980-6331
In Office
2011 to present
Biography
I am serving my third term on City Council.
I have been a resident of North Vancouver for almost 50 years, and have extensive business, community and local political experience. I owned and operated a small retail business in North Vancouver for 4 years and for 13 years was in corporate management at Canada Safeway.
I have previously served in elected office in North Vancouver as Member of Parliament, North Vancouver District Mayor and Councillor, North Vancouver School Board Chair and Trustee, and GVRD (now Metro Vancouver) Vice-Chair and Director.
During this time I have served as Chair or member on a large number of North Vancouver municipal committees, GVRD (now Metro Vancouver) committees, and federal government Parliamentary committees. I was Chair in 2010 of the special City of North Vancouver Task Force on Civic Engagement.
I am also active in non-political community activities. I was a former member of the Tourism Vancouver Board and the original 2010 Winter Olympics Bid Committee. I was Honourary Chair for the BC Special Olympics, was appointed a Life Member of the BC Youth Soccer Association and the Canadian Soccer Alumni, and was appointed an Honourary Director of BC Wheelchair Sports. I was honoured for my community service with the Canada 125 Medal, and with the Queen Elizabeth Silver Jubilee Medal. In 2008 I received the Freedom of the District of North Vancouver Award for distinguished service to the community.
Council Committees and Appointments
- Advisory Planning Commission
- Civic Naming Committee
- Finance Committee
- North Vancouver Museum and Archives Commission
- Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel
- Parks and Recreation Committee
- Policy Committee
- Acting Mayor: November - December