The 2012 Federal Electoral Boundaries Commission for British Columbia is recommending new political boundaries that would move Nelson from the South Okanagan-West Kootenay riding into the Kootenay Columbia riding with the East Kootenay. Read about it in the Nelson Daily

The change would likely weaken the NDP’s hold on the South Okanagan seat now held by Alex Atamanenko by dividing the NDP-leaning constituencies in Kaslo, the Slocan Valley, and Nelson into 2 different ridings. This might change the balance of power in Parliament and result in a different environmental priorities either now or in the future. The change also creates a situation wherein residents on the north side of Hwy 3 are in a different riding than residents on the south side, even though both sets of voters would have similar issues, concerns, and needs. 

 

 

From the Commission

“The Commission’s proposal and proposed maps for the new electoral districts can now be found on this website:

There is a mapping tool on the website that will allow you to see the current electoral boundaries as well as the proposed changes.  You can type in your address, or the name of a city, to start up the mapping tool.  From there you can zoom in on certain areas and move the map around.  Click on the names of the electoral districts to see the verbal descriptions of these districts. 

The website also lists the places, dates and times of public hearings.  If you would like to make a presentation at a public hearing, please let me know and I will register you.  Please provide the following information:

  • your name
  • the group you represent (if applicable)
  • the main point of your presentation
  • whether you will be presenting in English or French and
  • whether you have any special needs

Email your request to bc-cb@rfed-rcf.ca or mail it to: 

Federal Electoral Boundaries Commission for British Columbia
Suite 301, 1095 West Pender Street
Vancouver, BC  V6E 2M6

The Commission’s proposal and proposed electoral district maps will be published in early August in the Canada Gazette, the Vancouver Sun, The Province, The Source and the Victoria Times Colonist.  Many local newspapers across BC will carry ads at that time directing interested readers to consult the website or contact this office for copies of the proposal. 

We will be accepting registrations for public hearings until August 30, 2012.  People may make written submissions throughout the summer and throughout the public hearing process.

Thank you very much for your interest and participation.