Now more than ever, the provincial and local governments need to have strong relationships and open lines of communication.
In my new role as Minister of State to the Premier for Local Governments and Rural Communities, I will be working hard in the months ahead to connect with local governments, regional districts, First Nations, municipalities and rural and remote communities. As a rural MLA and former Nelson city councillor, I understand the unique and sometimes familiar challenges that many rural communities face, and I will be bringing those voices with me to the cabinet table.
It’s an honour to be able to work so closely with local leaders who have such a strong impact on British Columbians. I am dedicated to working on the things that matter most to people, like the cost of living, the economy, access to quality health care, housing, public safety and environmental issues, while also learning more about the specific needs of communities and advocating for rural British Columbians.
In January, I was able to connect with municipal and regional leaders as I travelled across parts of northern B.C. to not only hear about challenges they may face, but also to learn more about the incredible people, initiatives, and investments that make the region so special. Local governments are some of our strongest partners in delivering for communities and I look forward to our continued work together.
Last week I was grateful to attend the ninth annual First Nations Leadership Gathering in Vancouver and hear from First Nations on priorities in their communities, and for the opportunity to collaborate on ways we can respect and advance relationships between our governments.
Something that is on the minds of many of us right now is the threat of President Donald Trump’s tariffs and how they might affect industry and the cost of living in rural communities. I know it’s concerning for people, especially when we always try to act as good neighbours to our friends south of the border.
Premier David Eby has been clear — there may be challenges ahead, but we will continue to support British Columbians and collaborate with other provinces and the federal governments to put Canada first.
We’re focused on building an even stronger domestic economy, strengthening our relationships with other trade partners, and relying less on U.S. exports. I know we are all hoping it doesn’t come to it, but, if necessary, we will also stand up for British Columbians by supporting federal initiatives to fight back.
Whether it’s facing the threat of tariffs from the U.S., or working towards strengthening our own economy, health-care system, or access to housing, I know we’re stronger when we pull together. I am looking forward to continuing to work hard for people in my own riding of Kootenay Central, and to build relationships with more local governments across B.C. this year.
Brittny Anderson is MLA for Kootenay Central and Minister of State for Local Governments and Rural Communities.
