Jake Wiebe has been a resident of Hampton Place for 25 years and has a background in finance and operations.
Q+A
What is the most important issue facing the campus neighbourhoods today?
Growing population and student activities are causing noise and disruptions, while rising housing insecurity affects students and faculty. Residents are concerned that infrastructure—schools, emergency services, and utilities—cannot keep pace with demand, particularly with the increased need for electric vehicle support and individual heating/cooling systems due to climate change. Additionally, there are calls for improved public transportation for both residents and students.
Is UBC building a livable, viable, safe, and environmentally-friendly community for residents through Campus Vision 2050? Why or why not?
Campus Vision 2050 is a 30-year initiative guiding UBC’s development. It emphasizes sustainability, community integration, and infrastructure improvements. Key goals include reducing car reliance, enhancing transit, collaborating with the Musqueam people, and increasing affordable housing for students and faculty. The plan aims to foster a sustainable, accessible, and culturally inclusive campus while supporting academic excellence and community well-being. It is impossible to comment on this important initiative within a 75 word limit.
(EDITOR’S NOTE – All candidates were asked to limit their answers to 75 words for each question.)
What is the most pressing safety issue facing the campus neighbourhoods and where would you put your focus in addressing it?
Personal safety and crime prevention are essential, especially regarding theft, assaults, and substance abuse. Open campus environments with high student turnover can attract opportunistic crimes like break-ins and bike thefts. Improved lighting, CCTV, and enhanced security patrols will help create a more secure environment. Additionally, increased education and awareness programs are needed to foster a stronger culture of safety within our neighborhoods
What are your thoughts on the UNA’s current fiscal situation?
I would need to do a “deeper dive” into the current fiscal results. As much of my career was spent within the financial realm this will certainly be one of my first areas of review. How are the UNA budgets are built, who is involved, and see what opportunities there are to improve sources and use of funds. Does UBC retain an equitable share of the levy assessed? That is just one of the questions I would like to see answered. Understandably there is huge pressure on budgets and council has a duty to ensure funds are spent as judiciously as possible.
How can the UNA better foster a sense of community and connection among residents?
Wesbrook Community Centre and The Barn do a great job offering reasonably priced activities and cultural events. The farmer’s market is another great initiative that maybe can be expanded. The live TV broadcasting during the summer Olympics in the square was also a great initiative that maybe can be expanded. Better communication needs to be done of scheduled events at Doug Mitchell Arena and Thunderbird Stadium. Residents would be more aware of what is going on and may even wish to attend.