Candidate: Cindy Wu
Riding: Richmond-Queensborough
Party: Independent
Occupation: Art school founder
Where do you live (city)? Richmond-Queensborough
Top priorities for Richmond
Richmond's future thrives on smart growth: safer neighbourhoods, affordable homes, and smoother commutes. We're committed to empowering education, expanding healthcare access, and creating a place where every family, senior, and child can thrive. Together, we’ll build a Richmond that feels like home—a city that grows stronger with every voice heard.
Past achievements
Cindy Wu grew up in Richmond, who is an accomplished designer, entrepreneur, and community leader. After earning a Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design from Parsons School of Design in New York and a Master's in Interior Design from the Royal College of Art in the U.K., Cindy founded her art academy in Richmond, where students have won numerous international awards, with artworks auctioned to support BC Children’s Hospital Foundation. In 2021, she was crowned Miss Chinese Vancouver as champion, which led her to take part in extensive community service, including charity golf tournaments, food bank, Meals on Wheels and more.
Yes/no questionnaire (candidate can give 150-word answers to three questions)
1. Do you support a provincial carbon tax? NO
2. Do you support Bill 44/47 to increase density in residential areas and near rapid transit? YES
3. Are you committed to keeping SOGI policies in B.C.’s education system? DIDN'T ANSWER
4. Do you support Truth and Reconciliation with B.C.’s Indigenous population? YES
5. Do you support lower taxes for B.C. businesses?
YES, lowering taxes for B.C. businesses can stimulate economic growth, particularly for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that make up 98% of the province’s businesses. Lower taxes can encourage investment, job creation, and innovation, which helps local economies thrive. For example, Alberta's competitive tax policies have attracted businesses and supported higher growth rates. However, tax cuts must be balanced with the need to fund essential public services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure, which businesses and workers rely on. Instead of across-the-board reductions, we can consider targeted tax relief for sectors that create high-paying jobs or contribute to sustainability. This way, we promote business growth while ensuring the well-being of the community and maintaining essential services.
6. Should the provincial government do more protect businesses from vandalism and other crimes? YES
7. Do you think the province should lobby the federal government for bail reform? YES
8. Do you support privatization of health care in B.C.? YES
9. Should health-care workers who lost their jobs for not being vaccinated be compensated? YES
10. Do you support a safe supply of drugs for people with a severe substance-use disorder? DIDN'T ANSWER
11. Do you support a safe drug injection/consumption site in Richmond?
NO, listening to the voice of the community is essential; the residents of Richmond seek solutions that emphasize safety, and preventative care over the establishment of consumption sites. Preventative education programs like D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) in high schools are crucial in addressing substance-use issues at their root. Studies show that successful outcomes are more likely when paired with comprehensive education and mental health services. Prioritizing these preventative efforts helps promote a safer, healthier environment for future generations.
12. Do you believe in mandatory (involuntary) care for people with a severe substance-use disorder? DIDN'T ANSWER
13. Do you think there should be more supportive housing in Richmond? NO
14. Should the province be building more subsidized housing to combat the housing crisis? YES
15. Should the market be allowed to determine rents?
YES, supporting the notion that the market should determine rents can foster a dynamic housing market, encouraging competition among landlords and developers. This competition often leads to more housing options and innovative solutions to meet demand. When rents reflect market conditions, developers are incentivized to invest in new properties, which can help alleviate the housing shortage. Research indicates that market-based rent systems can help prevent housing bubbles and allocate resources efficiently. However, it is crucial to address the needs of low-income families. The government can provide additional funding and support programs to ensure affordable housing options are available. By balancing market-driven rent determination with targeted assistance for low-income families, we can create a fairer housing landscape where everyone has access to safe and stable homes.
16. Do you support reverting to a bridge plan to replace the George Massey Tunnel? DIDN'T ANSWER
**Editor's note: The News will be publishing profiles of candidates who submitted them before our deadline. They will be published between Monday, Oct. 7 and Thursday, Oct. 10.
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