As the Oct. 19 B.C. general election approaches, the Observer is giving Salmon Arm-Shuswap riding candidates an opportunity to share who they are and why they are running.

Sylvia Lindgren – BC NDP

Sylvia Lindgren grew up in mining towns across Canada, and has lived in Salmon Arm since 1994 where she and her husband, Quinton, raised three kids. Today, they enjoy camping, sailing and adventuring in their VW van while spending time with their three grandchildren.

For more than 40 years, Sylvia has served in healthcare and education. The hallmark of her work is availability and advocacy. As a longtime union member, Sylvia served as president for 5 years, representing 1,100 members in education and social services.

Sylvia was first elected to municipal government in 2018 and is now serving her second term. Within that time, Sylvia has been instrumental in improvements to public safety, local housing supply and active transportation routes. As the six-year chair to the Environmental Advisory Committee, Sylvia has introduced or supported changes to plastic waste, water protection, a reduction in corporate GHG emissions and preservation of the local tree canopy.

Sylvia’s priorities upon election include protecting public services, increasing the affordable housing supply and improving supports for those with mental health and/or addictions.

Local or provincial, Sylvia’s commitment to climate action remains the same: building climate change resilience, reducing GHG emissions and the protection of water.

Greg McCune – Independent

Greg McCune has lived in Enderby for 49 years and raised his three children there. He credits his father’s decision to move the family from Calgary to Enderby as one of the best decisions ever made.

He began working at Sutherland’s bakery at a young age after his father purchased it. He quickly learned the importance of hard work and what it takes to operate a small business. In 2010, he officially took over the business from his father.

Growing up in the family business gave Greg the opportunity to deeply connect with the customers of the bakery, the Shuswap community. Daily conversations with customers helped him have a strong understanding of the needs and challenges the community faced.

Greg’s involvement in the community naturally led him to serve as a city councillor in Enderby for 17 years, and as Mayor for eight years. In both roles, he was dedicated to representing the interests of residents and businesses while finding creative solutions to advance the community’s goals. Greg’s leadership style often involved listening closely to the community and out-of-box thinking to balance and address the diverse needs of Enderby.

Greg McCune is running as the centre-right Independent MLA candidate, advocating for free enterprise and all things Shuswap.

Sherry Roy – Independent

 Sherry Roy has lived in the North Okanagan-Shuswap area for 40+ years, and has always been an active member of the community.  Her background is in social work, family court and family counselling. Sherry was a registered mediator and is now a Certified Holistic Health Coach. She is a boots-on-the-ground advocate for the rights of local citizens.

Sherry believes that the parties have strayed to far from the needs of our communities. The economy, housing, healthcare, homelessness, addiction, parental rights, education, countless farming challenges, water restrictions, a proactive readiness to secure properties from fires and more are some of the issues she will be looking into. 

"We need real solutions to real issues," says Roy. 

Sherry is dedicated to being your voice in the legislature. No party agenda; just a commitment to the community. The 2024 B.C. Provincial Election is an opportunity for residents to choose a representative who truly understands their needs.

"The party is over," says Roy. "Together, let's work towards building a stronger, more responsive government for the North Okanagan-Shuswap area."

If you want change, not just lip service, vote for Sherry Roy.

Jed Wiebe – BC Greens 

Jed Wiebe (he/him) is a lifelong Shuswap resident and a passionate advocate for sustainable agriculture. He co-owns an organic elderberry farm where he and his partner prioritize environmental stewardship and ethical business practices.

Jed’s academic background in Sociology and Social Anthropology from Dalhousie University, combined with his experience in the silviculture industry, shaped his commitment to ecological sustainability and community well-being.

Jed’s dedication to sustainability extends beyond his farm. He is actively involved in environmental advocacy through Neighbours United, where he campaigns for biodiversity and ecosystem health. His holistic approach to interconnected issues like climate change, social justice, and economic sustainability reflects his deep commitment to creating a better future for all.

As a candidate for the BC Greens, Jed is eager to bring his values and experience to provincial politics, working towards a government that prioritizes both people and the planet.

David Williams  – BC Conservatives

David Williams has worked in the HVAC industry and as a small business owner and, subsequently as a realtor, was involved in residential and commercial real estate which led into property tax assessment. David currently works in loss control, which includes providing high-value residential and farm appraisals for the insurance industry.

David has also been a board director for non-profit organizations, coached local sports and held appointments with the Regional District and the Property Assessment Appeal Panel.

As a long-term resident of the region, he knows there have been many changes, but we all need to ensure it remains a special place to live in with limitless potential. Each community within the riding has unique issues, but affordability, healthcare, and education have the greatest impact on our daily lives.

"Representation is about more than just words; it’s about effective, thoughtful leadership that is accessible and accountable and brings tangible, positive changes for the residents of Salmon Arm-Shuswap," said Williams. "Having a strong voice at the table of the governing party advocating for the region will deliver long-term benefits to all constituents."