WAI NEWEST POLICE BOARD MEMBER

Chinese Leader Sees Grow-Ops As Problem

As the newest member of York Region's police services board, Richmond
Hill entrepreneur Daisy Wai is ready to tackle some serious issues.

"One of the major concerns in this community is the (marijuana) grow
ops," she said. "I know the board has been working hard on this issue
already, but we must do all we can to get rid of this problem."

Ms Wai, who runs two advertising firms in Richmond Hill, moved to the
area from Hong Kong 23 years ago.

As a member of the local Chinese community she said recruiting
minorities is an issue she wants to deal with during her two-year term
on the board.

"The police must reflect the community as well," she said.

She plans to give up her position of chairperson of the Richmond Hill
Chamber of Commerce, but will maintain her seat with the Chinese
Business Association.

Following her swearing in Wednesday, Chief Armand La Barge said he's
happy to have her aboard.

"She brings a fresh new perspective to the board and we welcome that,"
he said.

Ms Wai replaces board member Bob Callow of Aurora.

Winner of Richmond Hill's Volunteer Award this year and a former
Ontario Chamber of Commerce award winner and Queen's Silver Jubilee
Medal winner for community service, Ms Wai, who lives in Richmond Hill
with her husband and three children, said the community is her number
one priority.

"Anything I can do to serve the community I will do so," she said.

But for now, her aspirations are not political, she said.