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Riding description

Former NDP leader Carole James has had a strong grip on this riding since 2005, and is seeking a third term in office despite being overthrown as leader in dissidents in her own party in late 2010.

James faces B.C. Green Party leader Jane Sterk, a former Esquimalt councillor who chose to run here because she believes the riding has a strong core of green supporters.

Victoria-Beacon Hill encompasses the City of Victoria’s downtown core to Bay Street, including James Bay and Fairfield.

Candidates

NDP: Carole James (incumbent)




• Age: 55
• Previous elected experience: Member of the Legislative AssemblyÌý(2005-Present); Leader of the BC NDP (2003-2010); Greater Victoria School Board Trustee (1990-2001); President of the BC School Trustees Association (1995-2001).
• Community involvement: Carole was a foster parent for over 20 years for children and adults with special needs. She served on a number of local boards including the Community Social Planning Council, the Victoria Parks and Recreation Committee, and the Task Force on Violence Prevention.
• Top three issues: Affordable Housing, Public Transit, Education (Early Childhood to Post Secondary)

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GREEN: Jane Sterk
Ìý



• Age: 66
• Occupation: Leader, Green Party of BC
• Previous elected experience: Councillor, Township of Esquimalt Council 2005 - 2008
• Community involvement: I’m a member of the Harbourside Rotary Club and I was Director of Communications from 2009 to 2011. Previously, I volunteered for the Women’s Sexual Assault Centre and with the Alternatives to Violence program at William Head Penitentiary. I’m a donor and occasional volunteer with the Greater Victoria Youth Orchestra.
• Top three issues: Can we reform government so it works in the best interests of the people; Can we reverse the economic decline and create an economy that is viable for our kids and grandkids; Can we reduce the burden on our healthcare system by creating healthier communities that foster health and prevent illness

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LIBERALS: Karen Bill




• Age: 44
• Occpation: Executive Assistant on leave of absence from the BC Legislature
• Previous elected experience: In 1991 I ran for MLA in the riding of Victoria – Beacon Hill placing second with over 32% of the popular vote.
• Community involvement: I love volunteering as a Girl Guide Leader. My work with the Girl Guides provides me with the opportunity to help encourage young women to recognize their value as leaders and to consider a role in community service.
• Top three issues: Housing and homelessness, labour stability for public education and environmental stewardship while strengthening our economy

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2009 election results

1. Carole James (NDP) — 12,592 votes, 55.37% of total vote
2. Dallas Henault (Liberal) — 6,375 votes, 26.34% of total vote
3. Adam Saab (Green) — 4,106 votes, 16.97% of total vote

2005 election results

1. Carole James (NDP) — 15,064 votes, 57.03% of total vote
2. Jeff Bray (Liberal) — 8,091 votes, 30.58% of total vote
3. John Miller (Greens) — 3,077 votes, 10.91% of total vote

2001 election results

1. Jeff Bray (Liberal) — 9,297 votes, 37.04% of total vote
2. Carole James (NDP) — 9,262 votes, 36.90% of total vote
3. Walter Meyer zu Erpen (Green) — 5,453 vote, 21.72% of total vote

Riding statistics

• Population (2011): 51,570
• Median age: 43.3 (B.C. average 41.9)
• Percentage of people younger than 15: 8% (B.C. average 15.4%)
• Seniors in private households:Ìý 8,585, or 16.6% of population. (B.C. average 14.6%)
• Residents whose mother tongue is an unofficial language: 11.8% (B.C. average 26.2%)
• Top unofficial languages: German (715) Chinese (525) Spanish (520)
• Average household income, before tax (2006): $49,920 (B.C. average $67,675)
(Source: Statistics Canada)

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