Briefing on Kootenay-Columbia Federal Electoral District

Kootenay—Columbia is a federal electoral district located in British Columbia, Canada. This district covers a vast area of southeastern British Columbia, stretching from the Alberta border in the east to the US border in the south. The district includes the Kootenay Rockies and several national and provincial parks, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking outdoor adventure.

Population centres

Kootenay—Columbia is home to several population centres, including Cranbrook, the largest city in the district, and Golden, located near the border of Yoho National Park. Cranbrook is a hub for education, healthcare, and retail, while Golden is known for its mining, forestry, and adventure tourism industries. Other notable cities and towns in the district include Revelstoke, Invermere, and Fernie.

Issues and events

Between 2019-2022, Kootenay—Columbia experienced several events and issues that have impacted the local community, such as wildfires that burned more than 1.2 million hectares of land in the summer of 2019. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on businesses, tourism, and healthcare services in the district. Furthermore, in 2021, a deadly heatwave swept across British Columbia, resulting in the deaths of several residents, including seniors and homeless individuals.

Economy

The major industries in Kootenay—Columbia include forestry, mining, agriculture, and tourism. The district is home to several mining companies, such as Teck Resources, which operates several coal and metal mines in the area. The forestry industry also plays a significant role in the district's economy, providing jobs and revenue to several communities. Tourism is also an essential industry in the district due to its natural attractions such as the Kootenay National Park, Glacier National Park, and the Purcell Mountains. In 2021, the pandemic had a profound impact on tourism, resulting in the loss of jobs and revenue.

Important landmarks

Kootenay—Columbia is home to several important landmarks, such as the Columbia River, which flows for 2,000 kilometers from the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. The district also includes several national and provincial parks, such as the Kootenay National Park, which is home to several hot springs and a variety of wildlife. Other notable landmarks include the Revelstoke Dam, the Golden and District Arena, and the Arrow Lakes.

Arts and culture

Kootenay—Columbia is home to several cultural events, such as the Revelstoke Music Festival, which showcases local musicians and bands. The district also has an active arts community, with several galleries and museums showcasing local talent and history. The communities in the district also celebrate their cultural heritage through events such as the Kimberley International Old Time Accordion Championships and the Invermere Farmers and Artists Market.

Electoral issues

During the 2021 federal election, the economic and social issues in Kootenay—Columbia included healthcare, affordable housing, and job creation. The district has a large senior population, and access to healthcare and long-term care facilities were major concerns for residents. Affordable housing is also an issue in many communities, with the cost of living increasing due to the growth of the tourism industry.

Community organizations

Kootenay—Columbia is home to several community organizations that provide essential services and support to residents, such as the Kootenay Employment Services, which helps job seekers find employment opportunities in the district. Other notable organizations include the Fernie Women's Resource Centre, the Golden Food Bank, and the Columbia Valley Community Foundation.

Multicultural groups

The most significant cultural demographic segments in Kootenay—Columbia are Indigenous peoples and immigrants. The district is home to several Indigenous communities, such as the Ktunaxa Nation, the Shuswap Indian Band, and the Kinbasket Lake Indian Band. Immigrants also make up a significant portion of the population, with many coming to the district to work in the tourism or mining industries.

Overall, Kootenay—Columbia is a diverse and vibrant district that is both rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. Despite the challenges that the district has faced in recent years, the community organizations and local businesses have worked hard to create a thriving and supportive community for its residents.