Another Delta councillor is vying for a seat in the provincial legislature, as Bruce McDonald announced Sunday he will be seeking the nomination in Delta South for the B.C. Liberal Party in the upcoming 2013 provincial election.
He joins fellow councillors Sylvia Bishop, who will be running for the NDP in Delta North, and Scott Hamilton, who is seeking the Liberal nomination for Delta North.
McDonald has served seven terms on Delta council, and says he believes he can work at the provincial level to address South Deltans' concerns.
"I have worked on or chaired every municipal committee and commission and have also served as council liaison to numerous community organizations," said McDonald in a press release issued Sunday (Dec. 30). "I bring not only my lengthy government experience, but also my knowledge of local and provincial issues as well as a proven commitment to the citizens of Delta.”
McDonald said is first priority is strong fiscal management, and touted Delta council's successful efforts to reduce debt over the past 25 years.
“I want to serve in Victoria to ensure prudent oversight of our taxpayers’ money," he said. "I want to work to build a strong economy. A strong provincial economy allows us to maintain and improve our hospitals, transportation infrastructure and education programs that enhance the lives of citizens in this riding and throughout the province.”
Former Delta school board chair Kelly Guichon said she was one of many residents in the riding who encouraged McDonald to seek the nomination.
“Delta South needs a strong voice on many issues including, agriculture, transportation and health care," she said. "I have worked with Councillor McDonald over the years and I know he can get the job done for South Delta."
Guichon had previously flirted with the idea of running for the local Liberal nomination herself. However, she said her commitments to her family and community organizations require her to "stay local."
However, McDonald does have competition for the local Liberal nod.
Bruce Fougner, a Vancouver travel agency owner and 25-year resident of Tsawwassen who sits on the Delta Hospital Foundation board of directors, announced his intention to run for the local Liberal candidacy in October and says he has no plans to step aside.
"The goal was always to have a contested riding, and I think having two strong candidates go at it will be good for the party," said Fougner, Monday morning. "This will generate some excitement and good buzz, I think."
Fougner conceded that McDonald might have a higher profile in the community, but Fougner said his decades of business experience will be an asset in the legislature.
"It's between a politician and a businessman," he said. "May the best Bruce win."
The B.C. Liberal Delta South riding association is holding their candidate selection meeting on Jan. 22 at the Delta Town and Country Inn.