ANITA HUBERMAN
SURREY – Until 1993, a corporate or business vote existed in BC elections. It refers to the ability of businesses in a specific city to vote in provincial government elections. Businesses contribute substantially to the social and economic development of the province, however, have no say in representation from a business perspective.
“Businesses bear the burden of taxation, even though they create jobs, give back to their communities, and make significant investments in the province, but they are not allowed to participate in the election process,” said Anita Huberman, President & CEO, Surrey Board of Trade.
Elected officials at the provincial level must be held accountable to business taxpayers through the electoral process. Some businesses have owners that live in other jurisdictions than where they operate, and so have no ability to exercise their vote to elect leaders that have their business’ interest in mind. This needs to change. Businesses are an essential part of the community and need to have a voice in the election process.
That is why the Surrey Board of Trade asks the BC Government to re-implement the business vote. Administrative issues, verification systems, and other policy principles can be evaluated. All election processes are a journey but what remains clear is that businesses need a voice through the electoral system.
“We ask BC to be a leader – we need to think differently for the future of our economy.”
Anita Huberman is the President & CEO of the Surrey Board of Trade
