As the provincial election grows near, get to know your local Independent candidate for the Kootenay-Rockies riding: Tom Shypitka.
Who is Tom Shypitka?
Tom Shypitka is a man of many hats- including the former MLA for Kootenay East.
Born and raised in Cranbrook, he is part of five generation of the Elk Valley.
“I began my career in finance and also owned nightclubs, pubs and restaurants.” said Shypitka.
“Whether I was managing those establishments or working as a financial advisor, I always stayed connected to my community and roots.”
Shypitka joined politics in 2014 when he was elected as a city councillor and appointed a Director with the RDEK and KERHD Board.
He then progressed, becoming the MLA in 2017 and was re-elected in 2020.
“During my time in office, I championed healthcare, supported key industries like mining, and focused on balancing environmental and economic needs.”
“As a passionate outdoorsman and a three-time provincial curling champion, I remain grounded in my love for family, community, and the Kootenay lifestyle.”
Outside of the political world Shypitka is a family man with a hidden talent for curling, claiming the provincial championship title three times.
The Issues: Healthcare. Crime, Homelessness and Wildlife
Shypitka says he has dedicated his career to advocating for patient-centered healthcare, especially for families in the Kootenay-Rockies who face long travel times for essential care.
“For over eight years, I have championed local treatment options and improved access to Alberta, focusing on practical solutions that have already made a difference in people’s lives. My main reason for running is to bring radiation treatment to East Kootenay Regional Hospital.”
“For the last couple of years, we’ve seen an absolute shutdown of access to Alberta. We can’t get those services that we used to depend on. Those short little trips to Lethbridge or Calgary are now gone.”
“Instead, we’re being shuffled off to places like Kelowna, Victoria, Vancouver, which unfortunately is not financial for a lot of people, the time that it takes, the cost that it takes, the lack of family support, and the wait times are increasing. We need to do better.”
Shypitka also flagged crime, homelessness and addiction as entwined issues for the region, and ones he is eager to work towards solutions for.
Final Words
Shypitka says he is committed to real change, free from party policies and driven by the need of the people.
“As an Independent, I can focus on the issues that matter most to you, putting local priorities first.”
“Having served as your MLA since 2017 and as a long-standing advocate for Kootenay-Rockies, I’ve built strong relationships with stakeholders, First Nations, non-profits, and residents.”
“My deep investment in our community is reflected in my track record of results, regardless of political affiliation.”
“Running as an Independent isn’t about ideology, it’s about principle. I didn’t leave the party, it left me.”
“My priority has always been, and will always be, serving you. As an Independent, I have the unique ability to drive policies that matter most to you, ensuring local priorities always come first.”
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