Concerns have been raised about the impact on the riding of Kelowna-Lake Country-Coldstream following MLA Tara Armstrong’s surprise defection from the BC Conservative Party. Lake Country Mayor Blair Ireland expressed worry about the lack of strong representation in the legislature with Armstrong now being an independent. He emphasized the importance of forming relationships with the government in order to address issues such as housing, roads, and infrastructure in growing communities like Lake Country.
Armstrong, along with Peace River North MLA Jordan Kealy, left the party last week in support of Dallas Brodie, a former Conservative MLA ousted by leader John Rustad for controversial comments about residential schools. Armstrong has vowed to continue working hard for her constituents, despite facing criticism from some like Nikki Sinclair, who started an online petition calling for Armstrong’s resignation. So far, the petition has gathered 112 names, indicating some dissatisfaction among constituents.
Global News interviewed Armstrong in the legislature to get her response to the petition and criticism. Armstrong reiterated her commitment to working hard for her constituents and doing her best for them. When asked about concerns raised by Mayor Ireland, Armstrong simply stated that she appreciated the question. Additionally, concerns have been raised about Armstrong’s lack of presence in the riding, including not having a local constituency office. However, her constituency assistant stated that Armstrong has secured office space in Lake Country, which is currently being renovated and should be ready for move-in by mid-summer.
The defection of Armstrong from the BC Conservative Party has raised concerns about the potential impact on the representation of the Kelowna-Lake Country-Coldstream riding. With Armstrong now an independent MLA, the worry is that there may be a lack of strong representation in the legislature. Mayor Ireland emphasized the need for elected officials to form relationships with the government in order to address key issues such as housing, roads, and infrastructure in growing communities like Lake Country.
Armstrong’s decision to leave the party in support of Dallas Brodie has stirred some controversy among constituents, leading to an online petition calling for her resignation. Despite facing criticism, Armstrong remains committed to working hard for her constituents and doing her best for them. Concerns have also been raised about Armstrong’s lack of presence in the riding, including the absence of a local office. However, Armstrong’s constituency assistant has stated that she has secured office space in Lake Country, which is currently being renovated and expected to be ready by mid-summer.
Overall, the defection of Armstrong from the BC Conservative Party has created uncertainty and concern in the Kelowna-Lake Country-Coldstream riding. The lack of strong representation in the legislature and concerns about Armstrong’s presence in the riding have raised questions about her ability to effectively serve her constituents. With ongoing petitions and criticism, Armstrong will need to work diligently to address these concerns and reassure constituents of her commitment to representing them to the best of her abilities. The impact of her defection on the riding remains to be seen, but it is clear that there are challenges ahead for Armstrong as she navigates this new political landscape as an independent MLA.
