# Candidate Replies – Richmond Riding MLAs

- Link: https://historicsteveston.ca/2026-candidates/mla/
- Published: 2026-10-05T15:12:25-07:00
- Author: Chris Mathieson

[All candidate replies](https://historicsteveston.ca/2026-candidates/) · [Mayor](https://historicsteveston.ca/2026-candidates/mayor/)·
[Council](https://historicsteveston.ca/2026-candidates/council/) · [School Trustee](https://historicsteveston.ca/2026-candidates/school-trustee/)·**
MLA**

In fall 2026 the Steveston Historical Society asked every candidate the same five
questions about local heritage. Answers are published in full, exactly as submitted,
in alphabetical order. The Society is non-partisan and does not endorse or oppose
any candidate or organization.

_Answers appear exactly as submitted, without editing._

## Candidates who responded

**Richmond-Bridgeport:** _no responses yet_

**Richmond Centre:** [Lawrence Chen](https://historicsteveston.ca/2026-candidates/mla/#lawrence-chen)·
[Calvin Dang](https://historicsteveston.ca/2026-candidates/mla/#calvin-dang)

**Richmond-Queensborough:** [Luc Burns](https://historicsteveston.ca/2026-candidates/mla/#luc-burns)

**Richmond-Steveston:** [Barry Wosk](https://historicsteveston.ca/2026-candidates/mla/#barry-wosk)

## The questions

 1. [Steveston’s historic fishing village is one of Richmond’s best-known heritage places, but far from its only one. What do you see as the Province’s role in protecting and supporting heritage in Steveston and across Richmond?](https://historicsteveston.ca/2026-candidates/mla/#q1)
 2. [With tariffs putting pressure on BC’s economy, do you see heritage and cultural tourism as part of the response? What would that look like in Richmond?](https://historicsteveston.ca/2026-candidates/mla/#q2)
 3. [Would you support a provincial action plan or strategy for arts, culture and heritage, as the sector has called for?](https://historicsteveston.ca/2026-candidates/mla/#q3)
 4. [Most of BC’s community museums, including those run by heritage societies here in Richmond, are small, volunteer-founded and run on project grants. Would you support a stable provincial operating program for them, separate from project funding?](https://historicsteveston.ca/2026-candidates/mla/#q4)
 5. [Community events like the Steveston Salmon Festival and seasonal village celebrations depend on provincial event funding that has come and gone. Would you support restoring a stable fairs, festivals and events program?](https://historicsteveston.ca/2026-candidates/mla/#q5)

---

## Answers by candidate

### Richmond Centre

Lawrence Chen · CanWest Party

**1. Steveston’s historic fishing village is one of Richmond’s best-known heritage
places, but far from its only one. What do you see as the Province’s role in protecting
and supporting heritage in Steveston and across Richmond?**

Steveston’s fishing village is the heart of Richmond’s heritage, and our local historic
sites tell the story of our community’s roots. The provincial government has three
key roles here.

First, stable, dedicated heritage funding. Many heritage societies and museums rely
on short-term project grants only. As MLA, I will advocate for ongoing provincial
operating funding, not just one-time grants, to maintain buildings, run exhibits
and keep local heritage sites open year-round.

Second, protect heritage lands and buildings from overdevelopment. The province 
sets legislation and zoning oversight. We need balanced rules: we welcome reasonable
growth, but historic structures like Steveston’s cannery buildings, fishing docks
and heritage homes should get stronger provincial protection so they are not lost
to redevelopment.

Third, partner with local volunteers and community groups. Most heritage work is
done by volunteer-run societies. The province should reduce red tape for heritage
non-profits, support youth and immigrant heritage programs, and promote Steveston
and Richmond’s heritage sites as BC tourism assets.

Richmond’s heritage is not only Steveston. From old farm sites to early immigrant
landmarks across Richmond, these places deserve provincial recognition and support.
The province should work with the City of Richmond, local First Nations and volunteer
groups together to preserve our shared history for future generations.
Short version(
for questionnaire / social media)The province must provide reliable long-term heritage
funding, strengthen protection for historic buildings and sites against excessive
development, and cut bureaucratic barriers for volunteer heritage groups. Steveston’s
fishing village and Richmond’s other heritage landmarks are valuable community assets.
The provincial government should collaborate with local governments, Indigenous 
communities and volunteers to preserve these sites and pass our shared history to
younger generations.

**2. With tariffs putting pressure on BC’s economy, do you see heritage and cultural
tourism as part of the response? What would that look like in Richmond?**

As MLA, I would push for provincial support focused on three practical actions in
Richmond:

1. Provincial marketing funding to promote Richmond’s heritage sites alongside other
BC tourist destinations, targeting both domestic and international visitors.

2. Infrastructure grants for safer walking trails, heritage signage, washroom facilities
and accessible visitor amenities in Steveston and other heritage locations. This
makes sites easier for tourists to visit and benefits local residents too.
3. Support
local small businesses and volunteer heritage groups to develop cultural events,
seasonal festivals and guided history tours. These low-cost initiatives bring visitors
into our community, generate local spending, and create jobs without large high-
density developments.This tourism growth must be balanced. We will protect neighbourhood
quality of life, avoid overcrowding, and keep the focus on celebrating authentic
local history rather than mass commercialization. Cultural tourism is a win-win:
it preserves our heritage while bringing stable, diversified local revenue to help
buffer our economy against tariff shocks.Yes, heritage and cultural tourism should
be part of BC’s response to tariff pressures. Richmond’s unique history, especially
Steveston, can attract visitors, support small local businesses and diversify our
economy. I will advocate for provincial tourism marketing, heritage site infrastructure
funding and support for community-led cultural events. Growth will be carefully 
managed to protect our neighbourhoods and authentic local heritage.

**3. Would you support a provincial action plan or strategy for arts, culture and
heritage, as the sector has called for?**

Yes, I support a provincial arts, culture and heritage action plan. This plan should
be built with community input, deliver stable multi-year funding, reduce bureaucracy
for volunteer groups, and support Richmond’s heritage sites and local artists while
growing responsible cultural tourism.

I support a community-led provincial arts, culture and heritage action plan with
stable funding to protect local heritage and support artists.

**4. Most of BC’s community museums, including those run by heritage societies here
in Richmond, are small, volunteer-founded and run on project grants. Would you support
a stable provincial operating program for them, separate from project funding?**

Yes. I support a separate provincial operating funding program for volunteer-run
community museums. Project grants only fund one-time initiatives. Stable core funding
will help cover ongoing operational costs, cut red tape for volunteers, and keep
Richmond’s local heritage sites open and accessible.

I support stable provincial operating funding for volunteer community museums, separate
from short-term project grants.

**5. Community events like the Steveston Salmon Festival and seasonal village celebrations
depend on provincial event funding that has come and gone. Would you support restoring
a stable fairs, festivals and events program?**

Yes. I support restoring a stable provincial fairs, festivals and events program.
Voluntary organizers of events like the Steveston Salmon Festival need predictable
multi-year funding, instead of inconsistent short-term grants. Simplified paperwork
will help these celebrations continue, strengthen community ties and support Richmond
local businesses.

I support restoring stable provincial festival funding, so events like the Steveston
Salmon Festival can plan ahead and thrive.

Calvin Dang · BC Green Party

**1. Steveston’s historic fishing village is one of Richmond’s best-known heritage
places, but far from its only one. What do you see as the Province’s role in protecting
and supporting heritage in Steveston and across Richmond?**

The Province has an important role to play in protecting and supporting Richmond’s
heritage, while working in partnership with the City of Richmond, First Nations,
heritage organizations, museums and local communities.

Steveston is one of Richmond’s best-known heritage places, but our heritage extends
far beyond the village. It includes our fishing and maritime history, agricultural
lands, historic buildings, waterways, industrial heritage, cultural traditions and
the stories of the many communities that have shaped Richmond.

As MLA for Richmond Centre, I would advocate for stable provincial support for heritage
conservation, restoration, collections care, interpretation and public education.
Provincial programs should also help smaller community organizations access funding
and professional expertise.

Heritage preservation is not simply about protecting old buildings. It is about 
keeping our stories alive and making them accessible to future generations. That
means supporting museums, cultural programming, educational opportunities and responsible
heritage tourism.

I also believe heritage can contribute to a stronger local economy. By investing
in heritage sites and programming, we can support local businesses, attract visitors
and strengthen Richmond’s sense of identity.

The Province should be a reliable partner—providing long-term support while respecting
local knowledge and decision-making. Richmond’s heritage is part of British Columbia’s
story, and we have a responsibility to preserve it for future generations.

**2. With tariffs putting pressure on BC’s economy, do you see heritage and cultural
tourism as part of the response? What would that look like in Richmond?**

Yes. I believe heritage and cultural tourism should be part of British Columbia’s
response to the economic pressures created by tariffs and uncertainty.

Richmond has tremendous potential. Steveston’s fishing and maritime heritage, our
museums and historic sites, cultural festivals, agricultural history, culinary traditions
and diverse communities provide a distinctive visitor experience.

We should build on these strengths by encouraging visitors to stay longer and explore
more of Richmond. This could include heritage trails, improved interpretation at
historic sites, cultural and culinary tourism, stronger festival programming, and
partnerships between museums, tourism organizations, restaurants, retailers, artists
and community groups.

The Province can help by providing predictable funding, tourism marketing support,
infrastructure investment and programs that allow smaller cultural and heritage 
organizations to participate in the visitor economy.

As MLA for Richmond Centre, I would advocate for better coordination between provincial
tourism initiatives and local organizations. I would also support partnerships with
Indigenous communities so that cultural tourism is respectful, authentic and community-
led.

Cultural tourism is not simply about bringing tourists into Richmond. It creates
opportunities for local businesses, artists and cultural organizations while giving
residents opportunities to share and celebrate our history.

At a time when we need to strengthen and diversify our economy, investing in Richmond’s
heritage and culture is an investment in local jobs, small businesses, community
identity and long-term economic resilience.

**3. Would you support a provincial action plan or strategy for arts, culture and
heritage, as the sector has called for?**

Yes. I would support a provincial action plan or long-term strategy for arts, culture
and heritage.

British Columbia has a remarkable cultural sector, but many organizations face uncertainty
because they depend heavily on short-term project grants. A provincial strategy 
should provide a clear long-term vision and greater stability.

The strategy should be developed in meaningful consultation with artists, cultural
organizations, museums, heritage societies, Indigenous communities, municipalities
and community organizations. It should address sustainable funding, cultural infrastructure,
heritage conservation, arts education, accessibility, workforce development and 
cultural tourism.

For Richmond, the provincial strategy should complement local priorities and recognize
the needs of our diverse and growing community. Our museums, heritage societies,
artists, festivals and cultural organizations contribute to quality of life, education,
community connection and our local economy.

Most importantly, a strategy must be supported by predictable, multi-year funding.
Organizations need to be able to plan, retain staff and volunteers, maintain collections
and facilities, and develop programs without facing uncertainty every year.

As MLA for Richmond Centre, I would advocate for a practical provincial strategy
with clear goals, transparent funding programs and ongoing consultation with the
sector.

Arts, culture and heritage are not optional extras. They are an important part of
strong communities, economic development, tourism and British Columbia’s identity.

**4. Most of BC’s community museums, including those run by heritage societies here
in Richmond, are small, volunteer-founded and run on project grants. Would you support
a stable provincial operating program for them, separate from project funding?**

Yes. I would support a stable provincial operating program for community museums
and heritage organizations, separate from project-based funding.

Many of these organizations were founded by volunteers who have devoted years to
preserving local history. They care for collections, archives and historic buildings,
provide educational programs and keep important community stories alive. Yet many
operate with very limited resources and must rely on short-term project grants for
ongoing needs.

Project funding remains valuable, but it should not be expected to replace core 
operating support. Community museums need predictable resources for staffing, insurance,
utilities, building maintenance, collections care, accessibility and basic programming.

I would support developing a multi-year operating program with clear and transparent
eligibility criteria and appropriate accountability for public funds. The program
should recognize that small volunteer-led organizations have different administrative
capacity from larger institutions.

In Richmond, this would help strengthen the organizations preserving our fishing,
agricultural, industrial, maritime and multicultural heritage.

As MLA for Richmond Centre, I would work with the sector to develop a sustainable
operating model that complements municipal and community contributions rather than
replacing them.

Supporting these organizations is an investment in volunteers, local knowledge and
the ability of future generations to understand where our communities came from.

**5. Community events like the Steveston Salmon Festival and seasonal village celebrations
depend on provincial event funding that has come and gone. Would you support restoring
a stable fairs, festivals and events program?**

Yes. I would support restoring a stable and predictable provincial fairs, festivals
and events program.

Events such as the Steveston Salmon Festival and seasonal village celebrations are
an important part of Richmond’s identity. They bring residents together, preserve
local traditions, provide opportunities for artists and performers, attract visitors
and generate economic activity for local businesses.

The challenge is that many community events depend heavily on volunteers and cannot
plan effectively when provincial funding is uncertain or intermittent. Costs for
insurance, equipment, venues, security, transportation and performers continue to
rise.

A provincial program should provide predictable annual or multi-year funding, with
a straightforward application process that is accessible to smaller community organizations.
Funding should support established community events as well as new initiatives that
strengthen community connections.

Provincial support should complement municipal and community contributions, not 
replace them. The goal should be to give organizers the certainty they need to plan
ahead, build partnerships and maintain high-quality events.

As MLA for Richmond Centre, I would advocate for stable provincial support for community
festivals and events.

Investing in these events is an investment in community life and the local economy.
Richmond has a strong tradition of bringing people together, and the Province should
be a reliable partner in preserving these traditions while creating opportunities
for new cultural experiences.

### Richmond-Queensborough

Luc Burns · BC Green Party

Campaign website: [bcgreens.ca/candidates-2026/luc-burns](https://bcgreens.ca/candidates-2026/luc-burns/)

**1. Steveston’s historic fishing village is one of Richmond’s best-known heritage
places, but far from its only one. What do you see as the Province’s role in protecting
and supporting heritage in Steveston and across Richmond?**

From SGang Gwaay to Craigdarroch Castle, to Fort Langley National Historic Site 
and the Gulf of Georgia Cannery, I believe the BC government should help conservation
by means of providing both legislative protection and financial grants that go towards
sites maintenance.

**2. With tariffs putting pressure on BC’s economy, do you see heritage and cultural
tourism as part of the response? What would that look like in Richmond?**

Heritage is something that needs continuous maintenance and people, especially children,
benefit greatly from being able to to revisit the past and connect to it. I don’t
think tariffs change that picture.

**3. Would you support a provincial action plan or strategy for arts, culture and
heritage, as the sector has called for?**

Yes, after watching my fiancee navigate the art grant space as a musician, I think
an action plan sounds like a great idea.

**4. Most of BC’s community museums, including those run by heritage societies here
in Richmond, are small, volunteer-founded and run on project grants. Would you support
a stable provincial operating program for them, separate from project funding?**

For projects that have run for multiple years and received funding across all of
them, we can absolutely create new ways of reducing bureaucracy and approval around
funding.

**5. Community events like the Steveston Salmon Festival and seasonal village celebrations
depend on provincial event funding that has come and gone. Would you support restoring
a stable fairs, festivals and events program?**

Yes, although we would need to revisit amounts allocated and I would need support
from the rest of the Legislative Assembly, I would be open to restoring the stable
fairs, festivals, and events program that the NDP suspended in 2025.

### Richmond-Steveston

Barry Wosk · CentreBC

Campaign website: [www.BarryWosk.com](https://www.BarryWosk.com)

**1. Steveston’s historic fishing village is one of Richmond’s best-known heritage
places, but far from its only one. What do you see as the Province’s role in protecting
and supporting heritage in Steveston and across Richmond?**

All levels of government need to ensure heritage sites are protected and funded.
The provincial government, specifically, should continually identify new heritage
opportunities and work with organizations to ensure heritage assets are accessible
and encourage public engagement.

**2. With tariffs putting pressure on BC’s economy, do you see heritage and cultural
tourism as part of the response? What would that look like in Richmond?**

Yes. While tariffs deeply impact certain areas of the province’s economy, expanded
tourism is one way to help offset those losses. Heritage & cultural tourism is already
supported by the Province and already a key part of Richmond’s strategy.

**3. Would you support a provincial action plan or strategy for arts, culture and
heritage, as the sector has called for?**

Yes. Such a plan would create an opportunity for everyone in the sector to discuss
and align, enabling prioritization of provincial resources.

**4. Most of BC’s community museums, including those run by heritage societies here
in Richmond, are small, volunteer-founded and run on project grants. Would you support
a stable provincial operating program for them, separate from project funding?**

Yes. I would look for opportunities to transition from project funding to a stable
operating program, empowering museums and other heritage organizations to best direct
the funds.

**5. Community events like the Steveston Salmon Festival and seasonal village celebrations
depend on provincial event funding that has come and gone. Would you support restoring
a stable fairs, festivals and events program?**

Yes. Events and festivals are critical to our community. First, we need to reign
in out-of-control spending by the provincial government, then we can look to restart
a stable funding program for fairs, festivals, and events.

---

## Answers by question

### 1. Steveston’s historic fishing village is one of Richmond’s best-known heritage places, but far from its only one. What do you see as the Province’s role in protecting and supporting heritage in Steveston and across Richmond?

_Richmond Centre_

#### Lawrence Chen · CanWest Party

Steveston’s fishing village is the heart of Richmond’s heritage, and our local historic
sites tell the story of our community’s roots. The provincial government has three
key roles here.

First, stable, dedicated heritage funding. Many heritage societies and museums rely
on short-term project grants only. As MLA, I will advocate for ongoing provincial
operating funding, not just one-time grants, to maintain buildings, run exhibits
and keep local heritage sites open year-round.

Second, protect heritage lands and buildings from overdevelopment. The province 
sets legislation and zoning oversight. We need balanced rules: we welcome reasonable
growth, but historic structures like Steveston’s cannery buildings, fishing docks
and heritage homes should get stronger provincial protection so they are not lost
to redevelopment.

Third, partner with local volunteers and community groups. Most heritage work is
done by volunteer-run societies. The province should reduce red tape for heritage
non-profits, support youth and immigrant heritage programs, and promote Steveston
and Richmond’s heritage sites as BC tourism assets.

Richmond’s heritage is not only Steveston. From old farm sites to early immigrant
landmarks across Richmond, these places deserve provincial recognition and support.
The province should work with the City of Richmond, local First Nations and volunteer
groups together to preserve our shared history for future generations.
Short version(
for questionnaire / social media)The province must provide reliable long-term heritage
funding, strengthen protection for historic buildings and sites against excessive
development, and cut bureaucratic barriers for volunteer heritage groups. Steveston’s
fishing village and Richmond’s other heritage landmarks are valuable community assets.
The provincial government should collaborate with local governments, Indigenous 
communities and volunteers to preserve these sites and pass our shared history to
younger generations.

#### Calvin Dang · BC Green Party

The Province has an important role to play in protecting and supporting Richmond’s
heritage, while working in partnership with the City of Richmond, First Nations,
heritage organizations, museums and local communities.

Steveston is one of Richmond’s best-known heritage places, but our heritage extends
far beyond the village. It includes our fishing and maritime history, agricultural
lands, historic buildings, waterways, industrial heritage, cultural traditions and
the stories of the many communities that have shaped Richmond.

As MLA for Richmond Centre, I would advocate for stable provincial support for heritage
conservation, restoration, collections care, interpretation and public education.
Provincial programs should also help smaller community organizations access funding
and professional expertise.

Heritage preservation is not simply about protecting old buildings. It is about 
keeping our stories alive and making them accessible to future generations. That
means supporting museums, cultural programming, educational opportunities and responsible
heritage tourism.

I also believe heritage can contribute to a stronger local economy. By investing
in heritage sites and programming, we can support local businesses, attract visitors
and strengthen Richmond’s sense of identity.

The Province should be a reliable partner—providing long-term support while respecting
local knowledge and decision-making. Richmond’s heritage is part of British Columbia’s
story, and we have a responsibility to preserve it for future generations.

_Richmond-Queensborough_

#### Luc Burns · BC Green Party

From SGang Gwaay to Craigdarroch Castle, to Fort Langley National Historic Site 
and the Gulf of Georgia Cannery, I believe the BC government should help conservation
by means of providing both legislative protection and financial grants that go towards
sites maintenance.

_Richmond-Steveston_

#### Barry Wosk · CentreBC

All levels of government need to ensure heritage sites are protected and funded.
The provincial government, specifically, should continually identify new heritage
opportunities and work with organizations to ensure heritage assets are accessible
and encourage public engagement.

[Back to the questions](https://historicsteveston.ca/2026-candidates/mla/#questions)

### 2. With tariffs putting pressure on BC’s economy, do you see heritage and cultural tourism as part of the response? What would that look like in Richmond?

_Richmond Centre_

#### Lawrence Chen · CanWest Party

As MLA, I would push for provincial support focused on three practical actions in
Richmond:

1. Provincial marketing funding to promote Richmond’s heritage sites alongside other
BC tourist destinations, targeting both domestic and international visitors.

2. Infrastructure grants for safer walking trails, heritage signage, washroom facilities
and accessible visitor amenities in Steveston and other heritage locations. This
makes sites easier for tourists to visit and benefits local residents too.
3. Support
local small businesses and volunteer heritage groups to develop cultural events,
seasonal festivals and guided history tours. These low-cost initiatives bring visitors
into our community, generate local spending, and create jobs without large high-
density developments.This tourism growth must be balanced. We will protect neighbourhood
quality of life, avoid overcrowding, and keep the focus on celebrating authentic
local history rather than mass commercialization. Cultural tourism is a win-win:
it preserves our heritage while bringing stable, diversified local revenue to help
buffer our economy against tariff shocks.Yes, heritage and cultural tourism should
be part of BC’s response to tariff pressures. Richmond’s unique history, especially
Steveston, can attract visitors, support small local businesses and diversify our
economy. I will advocate for provincial tourism marketing, heritage site infrastructure
funding and support for community-led cultural events. Growth will be carefully 
managed to protect our neighbourhoods and authentic local heritage.

#### Calvin Dang · BC Green Party

Yes. I believe heritage and cultural tourism should be part of British Columbia’s
response to the economic pressures created by tariffs and uncertainty.

Richmond has tremendous potential. Steveston’s fishing and maritime heritage, our
museums and historic sites, cultural festivals, agricultural history, culinary traditions
and diverse communities provide a distinctive visitor experience.

We should build on these strengths by encouraging visitors to stay longer and explore
more of Richmond. This could include heritage trails, improved interpretation at
historic sites, cultural and culinary tourism, stronger festival programming, and
partnerships between museums, tourism organizations, restaurants, retailers, artists
and community groups.

The Province can help by providing predictable funding, tourism marketing support,
infrastructure investment and programs that allow smaller cultural and heritage 
organizations to participate in the visitor economy.

As MLA for Richmond Centre, I would advocate for better coordination between provincial
tourism initiatives and local organizations. I would also support partnerships with
Indigenous communities so that cultural tourism is respectful, authentic and community-
led.

Cultural tourism is not simply about bringing tourists into Richmond. It creates
opportunities for local businesses, artists and cultural organizations while giving
residents opportunities to share and celebrate our history.

At a time when we need to strengthen and diversify our economy, investing in Richmond’s
heritage and culture is an investment in local jobs, small businesses, community
identity and long-term economic resilience.

_Richmond-Queensborough_

#### Luc Burns · BC Green Party

Heritage is something that needs continuous maintenance and people, especially children,
benefit greatly from being able to to revisit the past and connect to it. I don’t
think tariffs change that picture.

_Richmond-Steveston_

#### Barry Wosk · CentreBC

Yes. While tariffs deeply impact certain areas of the province’s economy, expanded
tourism is one way to help offset those losses. Heritage & cultural tourism is already
supported by the Province and already a key part of Richmond’s strategy.

[Back to the questions](https://historicsteveston.ca/2026-candidates/mla/#questions)

### 3. Would you support a provincial action plan or strategy for arts, culture and heritage, as the sector has called for?

_Richmond Centre_

#### Lawrence Chen · CanWest Party

Yes, I support a provincial arts, culture and heritage action plan. This plan should
be built with community input, deliver stable multi-year funding, reduce bureaucracy
for volunteer groups, and support Richmond’s heritage sites and local artists while
growing responsible cultural tourism.

I support a community-led provincial arts, culture and heritage action plan with
stable funding to protect local heritage and support artists.

#### Calvin Dang · BC Green Party

Yes. I would support a provincial action plan or long-term strategy for arts, culture
and heritage.

British Columbia has a remarkable cultural sector, but many organizations face uncertainty
because they depend heavily on short-term project grants. A provincial strategy 
should provide a clear long-term vision and greater stability.

The strategy should be developed in meaningful consultation with artists, cultural
organizations, museums, heritage societies, Indigenous communities, municipalities
and community organizations. It should address sustainable funding, cultural infrastructure,
heritage conservation, arts education, accessibility, workforce development and 
cultural tourism.

For Richmond, the provincial strategy should complement local priorities and recognize
the needs of our diverse and growing community. Our museums, heritage societies,
artists, festivals and cultural organizations contribute to quality of life, education,
community connection and our local economy.

Most importantly, a strategy must be supported by predictable, multi-year funding.
Organizations need to be able to plan, retain staff and volunteers, maintain collections
and facilities, and develop programs without facing uncertainty every year.

As MLA for Richmond Centre, I would advocate for a practical provincial strategy
with clear goals, transparent funding programs and ongoing consultation with the
sector.

Arts, culture and heritage are not optional extras. They are an important part of
strong communities, economic development, tourism and British Columbia’s identity.

_Richmond-Queensborough_

#### Luc Burns · BC Green Party

Yes, after watching my fiancee navigate the art grant space as a musician, I think
an action plan sounds like a great idea.

_Richmond-Steveston_

#### Barry Wosk · CentreBC

Yes. Such a plan would create an opportunity for everyone in the sector to discuss
and align, enabling prioritization of provincial resources.

[Back to the questions](https://historicsteveston.ca/2026-candidates/mla/#questions)

### 4. Most of BC’s community museums, including those run by heritage societies here in Richmond, are small, volunteer-founded and run on project grants. Would you support a stable provincial operating program for them, separate from project funding?

_Richmond Centre_

#### Lawrence Chen · CanWest Party

Yes. I support a separate provincial operating funding program for volunteer-run
community museums. Project grants only fund one-time initiatives. Stable core funding
will help cover ongoing operational costs, cut red tape for volunteers, and keep
Richmond’s local heritage sites open and accessible.

I support stable provincial operating funding for volunteer community museums, separate
from short-term project grants.

#### Calvin Dang · BC Green Party

Yes. I would support a stable provincial operating program for community museums
and heritage organizations, separate from project-based funding.

Many of these organizations were founded by volunteers who have devoted years to
preserving local history. They care for collections, archives and historic buildings,
provide educational programs and keep important community stories alive. Yet many
operate with very limited resources and must rely on short-term project grants for
ongoing needs.

Project funding remains valuable, but it should not be expected to replace core 
operating support. Community museums need predictable resources for staffing, insurance,
utilities, building maintenance, collections care, accessibility and basic programming.

I would support developing a multi-year operating program with clear and transparent
eligibility criteria and appropriate accountability for public funds. The program
should recognize that small volunteer-led organizations have different administrative
capacity from larger institutions.

In Richmond, this would help strengthen the organizations preserving our fishing,
agricultural, industrial, maritime and multicultural heritage.

As MLA for Richmond Centre, I would work with the sector to develop a sustainable
operating model that complements municipal and community contributions rather than
replacing them.

Supporting these organizations is an investment in volunteers, local knowledge and
the ability of future generations to understand where our communities came from.

_Richmond-Queensborough_

#### Luc Burns · BC Green Party

For projects that have run for multiple years and received funding across all of
them, we can absolutely create new ways of reducing bureaucracy and approval around
funding.

_Richmond-Steveston_

#### Barry Wosk · CentreBC

Yes. I would look for opportunities to transition from project funding to a stable
operating program, empowering museums and other heritage organizations to best direct
the funds.

[Back to the questions](https://historicsteveston.ca/2026-candidates/mla/#questions)

### 5. Community events like the Steveston Salmon Festival and seasonal village celebrations depend on provincial event funding that has come and gone. Would you support restoring a stable fairs, festivals and events program?

_Richmond Centre_

#### Lawrence Chen · CanWest Party

Yes. I support restoring a stable provincial fairs, festivals and events program.
Voluntary organizers of events like the Steveston Salmon Festival need predictable
multi-year funding, instead of inconsistent short-term grants. Simplified paperwork
will help these celebrations continue, strengthen community ties and support Richmond
local businesses.

I support restoring stable provincial festival funding, so events like the Steveston
Salmon Festival can plan ahead and thrive.

#### Calvin Dang · BC Green Party

Yes. I would support restoring a stable and predictable provincial fairs, festivals
and events program.

Events such as the Steveston Salmon Festival and seasonal village celebrations are
an important part of Richmond’s identity. They bring residents together, preserve
local traditions, provide opportunities for artists and performers, attract visitors
and generate economic activity for local businesses.

The challenge is that many community events depend heavily on volunteers and cannot
plan effectively when provincial funding is uncertain or intermittent. Costs for
insurance, equipment, venues, security, transportation and performers continue to
rise.

A provincial program should provide predictable annual or multi-year funding, with
a straightforward application process that is accessible to smaller community organizations.
Funding should support established community events as well as new initiatives that
strengthen community connections.

Provincial support should complement municipal and community contributions, not 
replace them. The goal should be to give organizers the certainty they need to plan
ahead, build partnerships and maintain high-quality events.

As MLA for Richmond Centre, I would advocate for stable provincial support for community
festivals and events.

Investing in these events is an investment in community life and the local economy.
Richmond has a strong tradition of bringing people together, and the Province should
be a reliable partner in preserving these traditions while creating opportunities
for new cultural experiences.

_Richmond-Queensborough_

#### Luc Burns · BC Green Party

Yes, although we would need to revisit amounts allocated and I would need support
from the rest of the Legislative Assembly, I would be open to restoring the stable
fairs, festivals, and events program that the NDP suspended in 2025.

_Richmond-Steveston_

#### Barry Wosk · CentreBC

Yes. Events and festivals are critical to our community. First, we need to reign
in out-of-control spending by the provincial government, then we can look to restart
a stable funding program for fairs, festivals, and events.

[Back to the questions](https://historicsteveston.ca/2026-candidates/mla/#questions)

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## No response received

As of October 13, 2026, we had not received answers from the following candidates.
Responses that arrive later will be added.

**Richmond-Bridgeport:** Linda Li (BC NDP) · Teresa Wat (Conservative Party)

**Richmond Centre:** Sacha Peter (Conservative Party) · Henry Yao (BC NDP)

**Richmond-Queensborough:** Dhar Grewal (BC NDP) · Steve Kooner (Conservative Party)

**Richmond-Steveston:** Robert Evans (Independent) · Bruce Kong (BC NDP) · Keenan
Yang (CanWest Party) · Gordon Zhang (Conservative Party)

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[All candidate replies](https://historicsteveston.ca/2026-candidates/) · [Mayor](https://historicsteveston.ca/2026-candidates/mayor/)·
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