Unsure who to vote for? Want to know more about your local candidates? Black Press Media has asked candidates to provide a short biography as well as answer key questions to help readers understand more about who is running from Peachland to Coldstream in this upcoming B.C. election. Be sure to check back for updates and videos. 

Tara Armstrong is a seasoned professional from the private sector. Before her involvement in politics, she worked in the capacity of company president for an established Canadian franchise corporation. For nearly two decades, her business achievements included leading the charge by helping to transform a small, one-province franchise business into a Canada-wide success story. In 2018, she co-pitched the business on CBC鈥檚 Dragons鈥� Den, obtaining offers from three of the 鈥楧ragons鈥�. Tara is an advocate for the rights of senior citizens and people with disabilities, and much of her career has focused on this important segment of society. She is passionate about the political landscape in Canada and has always been inspired by those who are willing to stand up for what鈥檚 right, rather than what鈥檚 popular. 

What qualifications do you think an MLA should have?

An MLA should care deeply about the community they represent. They should have respect for the people who elected them to office and ensure their decisions reflect the best interests of their constituents. An MLA should have the ability to think critically, act selflessly and understand that their role is one of great responsibility. 
Strong leadership, negotiation skills and work ethic are essential, as is a keen understanding that the goal is to get things done. Finally, MLAs must remember they are there to make the lives of British Columbians better.

What qualifications do you have to represent your riding?

For over three decades, I鈥檝e refined my leadership skills, while continuing to learn and advance my career in the private sector. For 16 years, I co-built a small, one-province franchise operation into a larger multi-province corporation and consulted on the business model worldwide.
The first BC franchise we launched in 2007 is here in the riding I hope to represent as an MLA. Throughout my tenure, I built strong communication, negotiation and critical thinking skills.
I established solid relationships with my community and my peers. I learned how to effectively run and build a business while ensuring fiscal responsibility along the way. I feel my vast business and life experience will translate well into the role of an MLA. If given the opportunity, I will represent my constituents with integrity, tenacity, professionalism - and a great deal of respect for the responsibility I鈥檝e been bestowed.

What political issues will drive voters to the polls this election?

After knocking on over 8,000 doors what I鈥檓 hearing is that affordability, housing and healthcare are major issues for most. 
Constituents are also concerned about crime, safety and the addiction crisis. I鈥檝e also heard from many seniors and people with disabilities who feel they have been completely forgotten in this affordability crisis.
I feel these issues will get people out to vote and we may see a larger turnout than we鈥檝e seen in several election cycles, as a result. Many people feel the current trajectory the province is on is failing them and their families.
One of the messages I try to leave with my residents after meeting them at their door or in the community is that it鈥檚 essential to get out and vote! 

What unique issues are affecting your riding?

My riding is vast and diverse, and with that comes various considerations. This includes the Lake Country portion which is experiencing unprecedented growth. With this, comes a unique set of challenges that we must prepare ourselves for both on provincial and municipal levels. 
It is also an agriculture-focused riding, where years of government neglect and lack of support have affected many aspects of this essential industry.  We must work with the agricultural sector in multiple ways, including infrastructure development and supporting our farmers to increase food production. 
Small business struggles are another issue we need to address. These businesses are the pillar of our economy and make our communities great places to live and work. We must make life easier for the average business owner by offering tax incentives, cutting back on the regulations and 鈥渞ed tape鈥� and encouraging more businesses to start and prosper.