On the ballot for the BC Conservatives is Lawrence Chen who lived in Richmond from 2007 to 2011 and now calls Surrey home.
Despite the geographical detachment, Chen says he is in tune with Richmond, specifically the Richmond-Centre riding, and thinks voter apathy locally is culturally linked.
Chen said he believes many Chinese immigrants are focused on their own circumstances and are reluctant to engage in politics.
"I will stand up and encourage the Chinese community to get involved in the provincial election by talking to them. Telling them it is very important to look after our province, look after our community," Chen said. "If you only stay at home, it's not good. You have to be involved in the election."
Chen was active locally in provincial politics, forming the National Alliance Party, as well as being a member of the Chinese Overseas Association.
In 2008 Chen ran in the federal election as an independent in Richmond, and in the same year had an unsuccessful bid for mayor in Richmond, finishing in third place with 1,811 votes.
On the subject of addressing Richmond's projected rise in population, Chen said he would like to see the incoming provincial government provide increased funding for education, health care, transportation and affordable housing.
How that would all be funded, Chen said eliminating waste from government would be one source. He ruled out higher taxes as a means of supplementing increased government spending, adding the BC Conservatives favour cutting out the provincial carbon tax.
Chen currently works as a hunting safety instructor and examiner for the B.C. Wildlife Federation.
