Newly elected MLA Linda Larson reacts with supporters during election day results on May 14. She is currently waiting to be officially sworn in before she starts representing Boundary-Similkameen constituents.
Newly elected MLA Linda Larson anticipates representing her constituents in Victoria, but she’ll have to wait a little longer.
“Until I’m sworn in (sometime in mid-June), I can’t act as MLA and start dealing with the issues,” she said.
So for now, she’s somewhat in limbo.
Last week she spent time cleaning out her campaign office and gathering up files filled with documented issues brought up by constituents.
“We have everything on file, everything that people said to us (during the campaign).”
Larson said the biggest issue brought forward was – not surprisingly – FortisBC rate hikes. She noted this issue has affected people in every riding. “That needs to be dealt with as quickly as possible; we need a more fair billing system (for people who rely on electric heat).”
Larson said she was criticized for questioning the BC Utilities Commission, but she believes there should be rural representation on that committee.
The other issue that Boundary-Similkameen constituents brought up was the Penticton hospital expansion.
Larson said another emerging issue is local school districts struggling to make ends meet because of funding cuts. She stated this needs to be reviewed; her desire is to stabilize district funding and prevent further cuts.
Looking back at the election, Larson said she never paid attention to the polls, which were proven wrong.
The municipal councillor said she learned a great deal on the campaign trail. “I became a new tourist in all of these wonderful areas. I gained an insight on what makes each community tick.”
Any butterflies as she prepares to enter big party politics? No at all, Larson said.
“I’m really looking forward to learning new things. But it’s probably the last challenge I’ll want (at my age).”
Larson said she will continue to sit on Oliver council (without pay) as long as the Town wants her to. One scenario is staying on until mid-August before she gives her notice. She predicted a by-election in November, with her saved wages going towards that expense.
