Amanda Shatzko is seeking the nomination for the BC United candidate in the new Kelowna-Lake Country-Coldstream riding (submitted photo)

By Liam Verster

Kelowna-Lake Country-Coldstream

Shatzko seeking BC United nomination for new Okanagan riding

Sep 5, 2023 | 4:23 PM

Amanda Shatzko is looking to make the jump to provincial politics.

In a release to Vernon Matters, Shatzko, the current director for Electoral Area C (BX/Silver Star) of the Regional District of North Okanagan, said she is seeking the nomination for the BC United Party (formerly B.C. Liberals) in the new Kelowna-Lake Country-Coldstream (KLC) riding.

“I’m running because the new riding is unique to the province, just as I am unique to politics. It involves the distinct communities of Kelowna, Lake Country, and Coldstream, plus surrounding electoral areas and OKIB,” Shatzko said in the release.

“With the boundary changes due to population growth, the riding’s power base is now equally split among the jurisdictions of KLC. This means it is essential to have an MLA representative with the experience, qualifications, knowledge and energy to work with all the areas so that no one is ignored or forgotten.”

Shatzko stated her work in the past has involved the entire Okanagan area, but has particularly focused on the communities within the Kelowna-Lake Country-Coldstream riding. Along with service as a director and vice-chair at the RDNO for the past two terms, Shatzko is a PhD scholar conducting research and teaching in the department of political science at UBCO, is the board president of Impact Toolbox, and was a trustee for the Okanagan Regional Library.

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“I know what I bring to the table, and it’s different than the other candidates. I have a public track record in this province for bringing energy, knowledge and fresh ideas to the decision-making table, while getting results,” Shatzko said.

“To accomplish essential projects for our region, our MLA needs to establish trusting relationships with local governments. I have built strong, collaborative relationships with all the jurisdictions in this riding as a two-term elected official, allowing me to hit the ground running in Victoria.”

Shatzko added that while each B.C. community is unique, there are overlapping issues including healthcare, affordable housing and education, stating that her experience and knowledge working with B.C. law makes her “an ideal MLA for the area.”

Before she can have her name on the ballot for the new seat, Shatzko will participate in the BC United’s internal candidate election.

Adam Wilson, an urban planner and former campaign manager of Kelowna mayor Tom Dyas, and Mohini Singh, current Kelowna city councillor, have also reportedly declared their runs for the BC United nomination in Kelowna-Lake Country-Coldstream.

Kevin Acton, former Lumby mayor and current chair of the RDNO board, announced he was running for the BC United candidacy in the Vernon-Lumby riding in August.

The next provincial election is scheduled for Oct. 19, 2024.