Linda Reid (BC Liberal)
On the issue of illegal dumping of farmland, Reid, a former educator, said she has spent her career promoting the preservation of farmland and green space.
"There are issues today, complicated ones, around the jurisdiction of the Agricultural Land Commission," Reid said, referring to the ongoing matter of building a roadway through a farm property for a forthcoming tree nursery along Finn Road.
Reid said farmers are currently disagreeing with each other on what type of development is allowable on agricultural properties, but hoped there can be a resolution to satisfy the opposing parties.
"The reality is you need a very solid commitment to how you go forward," she said.
On the matter of transportation and the Massey Tunnel, Reid said the issue was first presented as addressing the need to improve connections between Richmond and Delta, not Richmond and Vancouver.
Reid added she has concerns over any options that would impact agriculture in east Richmond.
"I'm not supporting that. This is about the preservation of farmland."
Reid said she was not in a position to second guess the Massey Tunnel project's consultation process that has taken place so far, but believes the majority of those expressing a preference will choose a bridge option where the tunnel is now.
"I have no way of knowing that, I have no idea what the consultation will provide at the end of the day, but I wouldn't be opposed to it (a
new bridge) in the current location."
As for jet fuel and coal shipping along the South Arm, Reid said the risks
involved in the jet fuel proposal are too great.
"I want to see very much a land and marine spill response, we don't have it today," she said. "I think that comes first.
"It doesn't much matter where the spill is. If it's in Washington State, it affects us. If it's in Alaska, it's affecting us. Do we have an obligation to ramp up and be prepared? I think we absolutely do."
