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MLA candidates clash on affordability, budgets and future of Abbotsford-Mission
Candidates sparred over a proposed seven per cent PST expansion, with Conservatives saying it would hurt small businesses and the NDP defending it as needed for services.
On Wednesday, NDP candidate Pam Alexis and Conservative Kerry-Lynne Findley clashed over the PST expansion at an Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce debate for the Abbotsford-Mission byelection.
The Abbotsford-Mission byelection, scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 26, was triggered when MLA Reann Gasper resigned August 22 to accommodate Kerry-Lynne Findley's leadership transition.
Findley argued the PST expansion on professional services hurts small businesses, while Alexis defended the tax as necessary revenue replacement after the carbon tax was eliminated.
Alexis pledged to voice budgetary concerns privately, prompting Findley to criticize her lack of transparency and demand public accountability to voters.
All candidates agreed on increased mental health aid, flood protection, and transit improvements. Alexis also faced questions about recent Conservative Party departures affecting Findley's credibility.