Candidates clash in livestreamed forum ahead of Sept. 26 vote

Tensions flared during a live 90-minute debate hosted by the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday evening, where four Abbotsford-Mission candidates traded sharp criticisms over economic strategy, tax policies, and political stability.

NDP candidate Pam Alexis capped off the evening by targeting Conservative Party of BC candidate Kerry-Lynne Findley, claiming Findley is unfamiliar with the constituency and is focused on internal party conflicts rather than building a collaborative community. Findley had earlier criticized the ruling NDP on provincial spending, red tape, and an inability to balance B.C.’s budget.

Taxation and economic platforms take center stage

A primary point of contention was the expansion of B.C.’s PST to professional services starting Oct. 1. Findley voiced strong opposition, stating that local small business owners and seniors are distressed over growing tax burdens. She attributed the province’s rising debt and credit downgrade to Premier David Eby’s administration.

Alexis defended the expanded tax base, explaining it was necessary to maintain public services following the elimination of B.C.’s carbon tax. She assured voters that revenue raised would be managed responsibly.

During a candidate-to-candidate questioning period, Alexis pressed Findley on recent Conservative party instability, pointing to nine individuals—including Abbotsford South MLA Bruce Banman—who recently departed the party. Findley rejected the characterization that those individuals worked alongside her, attributing the exits to a competitive leadership race.

CentreBC candidate Lakhwinder Jhaj asked Alexis whether she would ever vote against an NDP budget, to which Alexis replied she would voice concerns privately within government rather than vote against her party. Findley seized on the response, advocating for greater public transparency. BC Green Party candidate Stephen Fowler urged more proactive environmental action, stating climate change drives costly flood and wildfire emergencies.

Common ground on infrastructure and flood mitigation

Despite sharp exchanges, candidates found consensus on several local issues. All four agreed that federal assistance is crucial to protect the riding from future flooding, and all supported expanding transit options to alleviate persistent highway congestion.

Additionally, both Findley and Alexis favored expanding mental health resources, supporting local food processing on Agricultural Land Reserve property, and opening inter-provincial trade barriers to bolster B.C.’s economy.

The byelection, scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 26, was triggered after former Conservative MLA Reann Gasper resigned her seat on Aug. 22 to allow Findley to seek the nomination following Findley’s move to party leadership. The debate was moderated by University of the Fraser Valley professor Hamish Telford. BC Libertarian Party candidate Jeff Monds did not participate.

Emergency Talks Scheduled as Industry Shrinks

A broad coalition of British Columbia forestry stakeholders has secured an emergency meeting with the provincial government within a week after delivering an open letter to Premier David Eby. Representing loggers, truckers, First Nations, unions, and specialty groups, the 15 signatories are calling for immediate provincial intervention to stabilize a struggling sector.

The B.C. pulp industry has experienced significant contraction in recent years. “In the last 12 months, we have lost four pulp mills. In the last three years, we have lost seven. There were 17 pulp mills in B.C. three years ago – today there are 10. If we don’t take immediate action, that number will be single digits before this year ends and I believe in five-to-ten years, there will be no industry left,” stated Joe Nemeth from the B.C. Pulp and Paper Coalition.

Local Impacts and Sector Integration

In Kamloops, pulp operations form the core of the local forest sector, where the Kruger mill provides direct and indirect employment for hundreds of residents. Expanding U.S. Section 338 tariffs are anticipated to affect the pulp market, though Nemeth noted that direct trade impacts differ from lumber. “Unlike lumber, the tariffs aren’t as dramatic of a direct hit because we sell about 90 per cent of our pulp offshore, not to the United States,” Nemeth said. “We are not as exposed as lumber, which is about 50 per cent. However, pulp market pricing and pulp market demand is at a seasonal low, and it does that – it cycles up and down.”

Because wood fibre and chips account for 50 to 60 per cent of pulp manufacturing costs, pulp operations and sawmills depend heavily on one another. “If pulp mills are not operating we take six-to-seven sawmills with us for each pulp mill and vice-versa. We are closely integrated,” added Nemeth.

Permitting Delays and Proposed Relief

Industry leaders cite access to timber as their primary challenge, pointing to substantial delays in obtaining provincial approvals. “We need readily, timely access to timber. That is our number one issue. And to give you a real poignant example, if you go one province over to Alberta, it takes weeks to get a cutting permit, whereas in British Columbia, it now takes years of red tape and cost,” said Nemeth.

Kamloops MLA and forestry critic Ward Stamer expressed support for the recommendations submitted by the Council of Forest Industries (COFI), urging swift government intervention. “I support the recommendations submitted by COFI. We need to act quickly and swiftly if we are to save our forest industry. Quicker permitting for wildfire salvage and BCTS sales. Any relief from BC government in fees, fuel, taxes,” said Stamer. Industry representatives suggest that expanding the allowable cut and streamlining permit timelines offer practical avenues for rapid government action.

Bylaw Ticket Issued as Floating Vessel Draws Public Attention

A city bylaws infraction notice has been taped to a makeshift vessel recently launched on the Nicomekl River in South Surrey. The craft—constructed by securing a recreational vehicle atop a homemade raft composed of barrels, metal beams, plywood, and straps—is currently anchored near Nicomekl Portage Park and the old Elgin Road bridge, behind the Crescent Road Esso station.

Local Reactions Split Over Craft’s Launch and Safety

Reports circulating online indicate the structure was assembled in two days within the Portage Park parking lot before being lowered into the waterway using a crane. The vessel lacks a visible motor. When checked on the morning of Friday, Sept. 11, no occupant answered calls at the site.

The craft’s presence has generated varied commentary across local community groups. Some observers celebrated the initiative, with one poster writing, “Property tax free !!! Whoot whoot!” while another called the creator “Today’s Tom Sawyer.” Another user commended the effort, posting, “100% kudos for out of the box thinking and giving it a go. Here’s hoping he’s carefully studied all the appropriate regulations, sleeps in a lifejacket (and doesn’t park it in front of my view, lol! Pretty it ain’t).”

Others expressed strong skepticism regarding legality, environmental risks, and structural durability. Comments included “There is no way that is legal,” alongside inquiries such as, “Saw the crane about to launch it. Does it even have a motor?” Additional public discussions raised concerns about potential waste discharge, grey water management, and how the craft will handle incoming winter storms or rough water. Both Transport Canada and the City of Surrey have been contacted regarding the vessel.