Referendum: MLA Response – Raj Chouhan

Price Tags is asking every MLA in Metro Vancouver questions about the referendum.. 

Raj Chouhan, MLA for Burnaby-Edmonds

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How will you advise your constituents to vote on the Transportation & Transit Referendum?

I will be advising my constituents to vote “yes” on the Transportation and Transit Referendum. I understand people’s apprehension with giving money to Translink but I believe the mayor’s commitments to independent audits and public reporting is key to addressing public concerns. The money raised through the tax increase will only go to the intended Transportation and Transit plan.

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What is the priority in the Mayors package (if any) for your riding?

More buses would be a priority for people in Burnaby. We have two Skytrain routes in our city but it would be of great benefit to have more buses and bus routes to better serve all areas of Burnaby. The upgrades and expansion to the Expo and Millennium Lines to double its peak capacity would also be an important improvement for residents.

I often hear stories in the office of seniors and people with disabilities having issues accessing HandyDart services. Increased services for our most vulnerable would be a great benefit to our community.

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How do you plan to participate in the referendum campaign?

I will continue to speak with constituents, labour, business and environmental people about the importance of investing in an efficient transportation system that meets the needs of British Columbians.

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Any other comments?

I’m disappointed that the BC Liberals have decided to avoid making hard decisions instead of working out funding options directly with mayors as they promised in 2010.