Hockey and politics may be completely different leagues, but a local player/referee/coach is hoping to move off the sidelines in his community and score a seat on council.
Shane Hillman is putting his name forward for Coldstream councillor in the November election.
Along with providing a fresh set of eyes to various issues, Hillman says his on-ice experience makes him a good fit for the job.
“As a referee there’s two things you learn very quickly. One: You have to have thick skin. Two: You’re never going to be able to please everybody.”
The 32-year-old is a stay-at-home dad to his five-year-old daughter, but with kindergarten about to start soon Hillman will have the time necessary to dedicate to the position.
If elected, Hillman plans to look at every subject objectively, taking everyone into consideration.
“I’m the type of person that’s going to look at an issue and I’m going to understand both sides of it. I’m not going to go into it with a pre-conceived notion.”
He is eager to preserve Coldstream’s motto: rural living at its best. Using the pellet plant as one example, Hillman says it looks as though it will proceed, but that doesn’t mean efforts have to stop for a healthy industry.
“We need to find a way to make sure the health and environment in our community is our top priority.”
Hillman is happy with the current council, but is hoping to add a different face to the mix.
“I do think that after six years with the same council, it’s time for at least a new view or a fresh look at the issues.”
Hillman was born and raised in Vancouver but spent many summers in the Okanagan and moved to Coldstream in 2006 with his wife.
