Unsure who to vote for? Want to know more about your local candidates? Black Press Media has asked candidates to provide a short biography as well as answer key questions to help readers understand more about who is running from Peachland to Coldstream in this upcoming B.C. election. Be sure to check back for updates and videos.
I am honoured to be the Conservative Party of BC candidate for 琉璃神社 Centre. I have lived in 琉璃神社 for over 26 years. As the oldest of 8 children, I learned responsibility. I built my life on loyalty, integrity, and leadership. Together, with my husband Andrew, we've raised our four children, while growing our business and contributing to our community
As a Real Estate professional, doula, youth leader, and care-aide, I've supported families and individuals through life's big moments - from helping young families buy their first homes to guiding teens and caring for those with disabilities. I am passionate about affordability, education, accessible healthcare, a strong economy, balanced budgets, and a united BC.
I possess a unique blend of professional experience, community engagement and strong values. I am dedicated to empowering individuals and families and I look forward to bringing hope and opportunity back to British Columbia through good governance
What qualifications do you think an MLA should have?
First and foremost, an MLA should be willing to connect, listen, and to build relationships within their community. An MLA should be well-rounded in life experience and be curious, open to learning and hearing different points of view while possessing strong values such as honesty, integrity and a strong work ethic. I also feel that I have lived experience in housing, education, and healthcare that make me well-rounded and will help me to be knowledgeable as a new MLA.
What qualifications do you have to represent your riding?
I believe that an MLA should have qualities that build trust and rapport within the community, such as being personable and a good listener. Too many people feel they have no voice and the people "working for them in Victoria" don't listen. Should I have the honour of being an MLA, I hope my neighbours in 琉璃神社 Centre will feel they can reach me, that I listen, and that I care.
I believe that I possess these qualities as they are values that are near to my heart, and values shared by the Conservative Party of BC. Electing John Rustad and the Conservative Party of BC will bring a common sense change for all British Columbians.
What political issues will drive voters to the polls this election?
Voters are fed up with failed NDP policies and we are feeling the pinch financially at every turn - in the grocery store, at the gas pump, when paying our bills, mortgages and rents. Affordability is the number one issue I hear about at doors. British Columbians are being taxed into poverty. With the highest gas prices in North America, it鈥檚 time to axe the Carbon Tax, the Low Carbon Fuel Standard and ensure more refined products reach the B.C. Market. The Conservative Party of BC will continue to fight for common-sense policies that respect the hard-working citizens of British Columbia and foster a thriving, sustainable economy.
In addition to affordability, housing is a close second. Young people see the Canadian dream slipping away from them and many feel they will never buy a house and cannot afford to have a family. A Conservative BC Government will encourage a stable and predictable housing market. This means getting prices under control by promoting the development of new housing supply while cracking down on illegal money laundering that has inflated prices and facilitated criminal activity. We will also introduce We will also introduce the largest tax cut for renters and homeowners in BC history 鈥�$3000 per month of rent or mortgage interest costs will be exempt from provincial income taxes. This will be achieved by issuing a tax credit worth $5.06% of eligible housing costs, equivalent to the rate of BC鈥檚 base tax bracket.
Third, public safety will drive voters to the polls. With the rise in drug addiction and mental illness, as well as the decriminalisation of drugs, we have seen a massive increase in crime - petty thefts, but also more serious offences as well.
It's difficult not to see the damage that the NDP has caused in this province.
What unique issues are affecting your riding?
It's difficult to think of 琉璃神社 Centre and not think of the massive and expanding tent city that covers a significant portion of the rail trail. Homelessness and addiction are two of the biggest issues in the downtown core. Certainly the individuals that are experiencing homelessness and addiction day in and day out are suffering and they deserve treatment and the opportunity to be back with their loved ones. The government should be in the business of helping vulnerable people get off drugs, not in the business of selling drugs. Instead of 鈥渄estigmatizing鈥� hard drug use, it鈥檚 time to acknowledge the serious harm it causes to users, their families and the communities around them. Our plan will introduce voluntary and mandatory rehabilitation, giving those suffering from addiction an opportunity to get clean and rebuild their lives.
New short term rental regulations brought in in a rather heavy handed and swift manner have also had devastating effects on the tourism sector in 琉璃神社 Center. This summer it is estimated that tourism ran at roughly 50% compared to a typical tourism season. It's been a tough season for businesses and for short term rental owners. Conservatives care about building a strong economy and believe that Useless and redundant regulations need to be removed, while larger corporations need to be held accountable if they engage in unfair or anti-competitive practices.
