We sent some questions to James Kosowan and he was kind enough to make the time for the answers. Here is some of what you need to know about James Kosowan. He is running in the Council Elections for ward Metis.
Tell us a little about yourself.
My name is James Kosowan and I am a life-long Edmontonian. I have lived in Ward Métis for over 40 years, having grown up in Beverly, but now residing in Strathearn. I have been married to my wife, Sally, for 27 years and we have two adult children, both of whom are currently studying at the University of Alberta. I am passionate about community building and have served on the community league executives of Bonnie Doon and Strathearn over the past two decades. I also represent Strathearn on the SECLA board.
Here is James Kosowan in the Candidate Forum yesterday.
Why politics?
Politics is an agent for change. Our society is shaped by the cumulative decisions made at the various political levels. We need good leaders who will put the interests of the community first and work to make our society better for EVERYBODY.
Why are you running for council?
I am running for council to implement positive change. I believe my experience at the community level, as well as my political experience, will make me an effective city councillor. I am a consensus builder and a good listener.
What are your top priorities?
My top priorities would be to ensure more affordable housing is built in Edmonton and better stewardship of the river valley.
What happens if you do/don’t win?
If I win, I will be an extremely hard working councillor for the residents of Ward Métis. If I don’t win, I will return to teaching and continue to make a positive impact in the lives of my students.
Can you describe your plan for women and children?
I want to see more support for housing, as mentioned previously. I also think it is vitally important to support families through programming and low-cost recreational opportunities at city facilities. I am a strong advocate against closing rec centers in mature neighbourhoods such as Eastglen pool and Scona pool.
What will you do to tackle problems of addiction and homelessness?
I support council’s efforts to find temporary housing for the homeless during the pandemic. Council also needs to be more vocal in pressuring the federal and provincial governments for supportive housing funding and treatment programs.
Are you happy with Edmonton’s infrastructure?
My biggest concern with Edmonton’s infrastructure is the sprawling nature of Edmonton’s pattern of growth, which continues to spread out our finite resources and makes it extremely difficult to maintain core services.
How important is climate change and what will you do to make sure climate justice is at the forefront?
I live in a net-zero home with 27 solar panels on my roof. Climate change is real and needs to be addressed at all levels of government. If I am elected, I will be a strong advocate for initiatives to reduce our carbon footprint and make our city more competitive in the long run.
What books inform your knowledge?
I just finished reading (for the second time) Happy City by Charles Montgomery. I am currently reading Street Fight by Janette Sadik-Khan. Both relate to our urban form and how cities function.
What do you do for your mental health?
In the summer, I enjoy golfing and cycling. We also enjoy camping and travelling, although travelling has been off the table since the onset of COVID.
Share a quote or a poem that means something to you.
“Generosity is giving more than you can, and pride is taking less than you need.” Khalil Gibran
Where can we learn more about you
To learn more, check out my website at www.jameskosowan.ca
James Kosowan for Ward Métis
