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By Liam Verster

NDP, Conservative Candidates Confirmed

Mayor of Fruitvale, medical equipment specialist named candidates for Kootenay-Monashee

Aug 27, 2024 | 2:35 PM

Kootenay-Monashee has a local leader in the running for the MLA seat.

The B.C. NDP named Steve Morissette, the mayor of Fruitvale, as their candidate for the new riding.

Morissette was first elected 10 years ago and the NDP said he has a record on taking action to address housing, childcare and climate change. The party pointed to the 37 space childcare facility and a 31 unit fully accessible and affordable housing complex being built under his watch, as well as the municipality making a committment to move to 100 per cent renewable energy by 2050.

“People in my community need action on the issues that affect us the most: housing, healthcare and the cost of living. The B.C. NDP has a record of bold action on these issues,” said Morissette.

“Falcon and Rustad have a record of cuts that will cost people more. We can’t afford the risk.”

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Premier David Eby backed Morissette, saying his past work shows his commitment to serving people in the area.

Morissette joins Glen Byle as the only confirmed candidates for the riding.

Byle, announced as the Conservative Party of B.C. candidate in December, works at the Trail hospital where he specializes in medical equipment repair.

The party said Byle is passionate about contributing to the health and well-being of his community, pointing to his professional work as well as how he volunteers his time to run a weekly fitness program for kids.

The provincial election is scheduled for October 19.