Loyal Wooldridge (R) has been named the B.C. NDP candidate for the Kelowna Centre riding, while Kristina Loewen (L) was named the candidate for the Conservative Party of B.C. (photos courtesy of the respective parties)

By Liam Verster

Local Leader, Realtor Running for MLA

NDP, Conservative candidates named for Kelowna Centre riding

May 9, 2024 | 12:04 PM

A city councillor and former chair of the Regional District of Central Okanagan is making a play in provincial politics, as is a local realtor.

Loyal Wooldridge has been nominated as the B.C. NDP’s candidate in Kelowna Centre for the provincial election this fall.

“Housing, healthcare, and affordability are big challenges people face in communities across B.C., and Kelowna Centre is no different,” Wooldridge said.

“They need a representative who will fight hard for people here — building more housing that’s affordable, improving healthcare services, and strengthening our resilience to climate-fueled fires and drought. People and families here just can’t afford the cuts conservative politicians want.”

Wooldridge has served on Kelowna City Council since 2018, and the party said he is an active community volunteer, assisting with organizations including the YMCA, BC SPCA, and the Kelowna General Hospital Foundation.

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“As someone who’s called the Central Okanagan home for more than three decades, Loyal has a deep understanding of the things that matter to Kelownans — and how to deliver results,” Premier David Eby stated.

“He’ll be on your side as a champion for building more housing, improving healthcare and childcare, and supporting local businesses, so everyone can build a good life here.”

Meanwhile, the Conservative Party of B.C. has named Kristina Loewen as their candidate for the Kelowna Centre riding.

Loewen is a real estate professional who has lived in Kelowna for the past 25 years.

“Kristina is a passionate advocate for affordable housing, recognizing the importance of stable and accessible housing for all,” the Conservative Party of B.C.’s website stated.

“She is also committed to extensive tax reform and fiscal responsibility, believing that a balanced budget and a profitable economy are crucial for the prosperity of British Columbians.”

B.C. United has previously announced that Dr. Michael Humer would run under the party’s banner in Kelowna Centre riding for the upcoming election. The B.C. Green Party had not nominated a candidate as of time of publication.

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