Economy and Business Growth

“A Proven Advocate for Growth, Now Free to Do Even More”

Tom has long been a champion of policies that support local businesses and create jobs in Kootenay-Rockies. As an independent, he now has the freedom to push even harder for economic growth without being bound by party interests. With over thirty years of experience and a background as a business owner, Tom understands firsthand the challenges facing small businesses, and he’s committed to making Kootenay-Rockies a thriving economic hub.

Fighting the Unsustainable Tax Burden on Small Businesses

As a business owner, Tom knows what it’s like to face increasing barriers to success. Since 2017, under NDP policies, businesses have been hit with 33 tax increases, adding $20 billion in costs to small businesses. These relentless taxes are driving businesses to the brink, preventing growth, and in many cases, forcing closures.

Tom is fighting to stop this unsustainable burden on businesses, arguing that small businesses are the backbone of our economy and need support, not constant financial strain. His priorities include:

• Stopping tax increases that are driving businesses toward closure.
• Providing relief for small businesses to encourage growth and stability.

Cutting Red Tape and Streamlining the Permitting Process

Tom is also focused on cutting red tape and speeding up the bureaucratic permitting process. Currently, businesses trying to expand or start new projects are stuck in a slow and inefficient system, leading to costly delays. Tom is listening to the concerns of business owners and bringing their issues to the legislature, fighting to streamline these processes and remove unnecessary hurdles.

Supporting Tourism and Food Security

In addition to his work for existing businesses, Tom is a strong supporter of tourism development in Kootenay-Rockies. He recognizes the potential for the region to grow as a tourism destination and is committed to supporting policies that help make that a reality.

Furthermore, Tom is focused on food security, advocating for policies that support ranchers and farmers, ensuring they have the means to become more sustainable while bolstering their industry. His efforts in these sectors include:

• Supporting tourism development to make Kootenay-Rockies a thriving destination.
• Advocating for policies that enable ranchers and farmers to achieve sustainability and growth.

Attracting New Industries and Labor

Attracting new industries, labor, and businesses is also a key part of Tom’s vision for the future. He sees opportunities for growth in emerging sectors like tech but knows that BC is currently at a competitive disadvantage compared to other provinces due to high taxes and additional costs. Tom is fighting to create a more business-friendly environment that can attract new sectors and provide more opportunities for the people of Kootenay-Rockies.