NAME: Pam Alexis
PARTY: BC NDP
ABOUT: Alexis is a community builder. A former school trustee and city councilor, she was elected in 2018 as the Mayor of Mission. Alexis is a Rotarian, and has served on a number of non-profit boards including the Chamber of Commerce. She was Vice President of the BC Winter Games in 2014. Alexis is a former teacher and former entrepreneur/event organizer.
1. What are the biggest issues currently facing the District of Mission?
One of the biggest issues facing Mission and Abbotsford is the need for new infrastructure to support our unprecedented growth. Mission and Abbotsford share water, sewer and transit services all of which will require investment by the provincial government.
There is also a need for all kinds of housing stock, especially those provided by BC Housing, which will be required to support those who have not been able to access affordable rental units. Mission has the lowest number of rental units, per capita, in BC and we have a growing homeless population which is directly tied to the high cost of housing.
Our communities need enhanced mental health and addiction services, in the form of prevention and treatment and other health services.
2. Why does your party have the best solutions on these issues, and what are the biggest gaps in your opponents’ platforms?
In the last three years, John Horgan and the BCNDP have shown their commitment to British Columbians and the communities we live in. That’s why I joined their team this election. We are committed to build on the work we have already done, including expanding transit connections and service in our communities; investing $400 million to revitalize community infrastructure; the continuation of our Homes for BC plan, bringing 114,000 new affordable homes to BC; a rent freeze until 2022 and capping rent increases thereafter; a renters rebate of $400/year; and investing in new treatment, recovery, detox and after care facilities and support services.
I haven’t seen the BC Liberal platform yet, so I can’t speak to specifics. But their leader announced a $3 billion break that will only benefit the wealthy. More importantly, it means 3 billion that isn’t available to invest in housing, healthcare or infrastructure in our communities.
3. What should government do to help people recover from the economic effects of COVID-19?
I hear from so many people who are worried, and uncertain about what lies ahead. For me, and for John Horgan, people are the economy. The BC Liberals are trying to throw tax breaks at everything but that only helps people who are already doing OK and means big cuts to the public services the rest of us rely on. We deserve better. Our government launched an economic recovery plan, StrongerBC, this summer. It’s a plan that is aimed at helping people get back to work, growing local businesses, and investing in our communities so we can move forward. We will rebuild an economy for the public good.
4 The provincial government provides vital services to thousands of vulnerable people. What personal experiences give you insight into how government services affect the lives of voters?
The 4 laning of Highway 7 for example directly impacted our commuting residents - they tell me they get home faster and can spend more time with their loved ones. I also hear from transit users how delighted they are to be able to get to events on weekends that they would’ve missed otherwise. Because of new investments in campgrounds, families share their best summer memories about camping at Steve Lake. I hear from our seniors, who are so grateful to witness the building of seniors housing and the long awaited senior center. Lastly, I hear how grateful people are that we have such experts leading us through the current pandemic.