Dan Dennill is in the running for the Abbotsford council seat up for grabs in the city’s byelection on Sept. 25.
Dennill has been a small-business owner for 27 years, providing commercial cleaning services and employing up to 80 workers in his company.
He said he knows the struggles and challenges that come with living in a community where financial hardships, limited resources, and economic uncertainty can affect the way of life.
“Whether it be opening a new business, taking out a loan, dealing with mortgage payments, or finding means to survive in tough economic times, I am all too familiar with the challenges,” he said.
Dennill said his experience of having come through the foster care system enables him to understand the implications of a lack of financial and community support and the impacts and distress that can cause for children and their families.
Dennill was raised on a farm and said he also knows the value and importance of the agricultural industry and how essential this sector is for the economy and the community.
RELATED: Abbotsford byelection to replace MLA Bruce Banman set for Sept. 25
With his son holding the reins of his business, Dennill said he now has the time available that he has always wanted to commit to working for the community.
“I seek to make further impacts by using my voice to take a stand for those who need it the most. My commitment and focus remain on extending my community outreach efforts and serving the community’s best interests,” he said.
Dennill said he is a strong believer that governments at all levels need to be proactive, not reactive.
“This starts with listening to the voices of the constituents, no matter what the situation, and taking the community’s concerns to the table to have those real discussions.”
He said he stands by a commitment “to advocate for and provide economic growth, introduce sustainable ways of living, invest into the youth of today who will become the leaders of tomorrow, help ease the financial burden of the most vulnerable, and bring political transparency and accountability to the people of Abbotsford.”
“My mission is to plant solid roots within the city council and commit to serving the community of Abbotsford, rather than using the opportunity as a platform for future political progression,” Dennill said.
He is one of nine candidates vying for the council seat vacated by Bruce Banman when he became the MLA for Abbotsford South. Also in the running are: Aird Flavelle, David McLauren, Korky Neufeld, Tom Norton, Gerda Peachey, Dave Sidhu, Manjit Sohi and Dao Tran.