Hi All,

I’m writing today to let you know that upon a lot of reflection,  I’ve decided not to continue this path towards the BC United MLA position. 

I originally considered this opportunity as I felt it would be interesting to be an MLA, work with a different group of co-workers, and push the North Shuswap and broader Shuswap agenda at the provincial level. My concern was that I knew I might be leaving a community just starting to heal from the fire and with quite a few issues still needing action. I feel that by staying here I can be most helpful to the North Shuswap.

I want to express my sincere gratitude to all those in the community that supported that early decision. Especially those who went to the extent of actually joining the BC United party in order to sign my nomination papers. That was above and beyond – I owe you one.

At this point, I am a year and a half into this term as the CSRD director for the North Shuswap and I am happy and comfortable with that. This job still provides me with all the challenges I need, and I am eager to tackle them. For years I have, and I will continue, to work towards the best North Shuswap possible. I look forward to the rest of this term, and likely beyond.

I do have one final comment. During my time as CSRD Director, and through this process of BCU nomination, I’ve come to know candidate Allysa Hopkins much better. She lives and farms in the rural Mara Lake area, is the Area F director for the Regional District of North Okanagan, and is running for the nomination to the BCU. Through many conversations I’ve come to appreciate her accomplishments and ambition. She’s younger than I (not hard I know), but most importantly, she’s passionate about Shuswap issues. I like the fact that she farms and understands rural life, most politicians don’t have that experience or mindset. If you decide to join the gathering on March 9th to elect the new BCU MLA, please give significant thought to voting for Allysa Hopkins.

BC United Nomination meeting
DATE: Saturday, March 9th, 2024
SPEECHES: 9:30 am, VOTING: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
LOCATION: 5th Avenue Senior’s Centre
ADDRESS: 170 5th Ave SE, Salmon Arm, V1E 2B9