Price Tags is asking every MLA in Metro Vancouver questions about the referendum.
Sue Hammell, NDP MLA for Surrey-Green Timbers:
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How will you advise your constituents to vote on the Transportation & Transit Referendum?
I will be voting yes in the upcoming Transportation & Transit Referendum, and I urge my constituents to vote yes as well. In voting yes, I support improving transportation and transit in South of Fraser communities. However, I do not support the BC government’s negligence in failing to work out transportation and transit funding options with each city’s mayor when they first had the opportunity. This referendum is simply a response to their initial avoidance of important policy decisions.
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What is the priority in the Mayors package (if any) for your riding?
The Mayors package presents a number of benefits for my constituency. The new Light Rail Transit, for example, will run directly through my constituency. The Pattullo Bridge replacement will also provide significant benefits for those in my riding. Since the bridge is arguably the closest bridge for my constituents crossing the Fraser, improvements on it will be realized by many. The increase in bus service will also be an important improvement.
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How do you plan to participate in the referendum campaign?
I will be campaigning and for a “yes” vote. By discussing the proposed improvements, and engaging my constituency in a conversation about the referendum, I hope to illustrate how our region will be positively impacted by an improved transit system. Communities south of the Fraser are among the fastest growing areas in British Columbia. Therefore, if we fail to improve our transit, and mobility within the city, we will all incur strong economic, environmental, and social costs. I will support the efforts of the Surrey Council, and I will work with my Caucus colleagues and partners in trying to see this referendum succeed. .
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Any other comments?
It is essential that local governments return to the decision making process. This is a major policy issue. The BC government shut out local governments and implemented a board that exercises no actual accountability. Instead, local governments, through their mayors, must return to their central role in decision making, and strategically find the appropriate funding for the proposed transit improvements.
