Mel Arnold, a 53-year-old lifetime resident of the Shuswap area, has become the fifth candidate to officially join the race to represent the Shuswap riding for the BC Liberals.
A previous president of the BC Wildlife Federation, Arnold has worked continuously since graduating from Salmon Arm Secondary in 1976, primarily operating a marine and RV business in Salmon Arm for the past 23 years.
“I take pride in the lifestyles in the Shuswap area and want to work with others as partners to build on local and provincial values. I want to contribute to the overall goals of the BC Liberal Party and help bring certainty to business in the area. I also know the environmental challenges facing us in the future and feel I can help find a balance in planning for future growth.”
The other candidates include former Salmon Arm mayor Marty Bootsma, Sicamous councillor Greg Kyllo, former Spallumcheen mayor Will Hansma and Salmon Arm businessman Jordan Ross.
“We are very pleased with the five candidates we have running for our nomination in Shuswap,” said Premier Christy Clark. “We need a Shuswap MLA that will continue to fight for job growth and a strong economy. I’m confident each of these candidates would be a great addition to our 2013 team.”
The candidate selection meeting will take place on Jan. 5.