Political rookie looking to show young people care
At the age of 20, with limited name recognition, a late start and a budget of only a few hundred dollars, Christopher Evasin knows he’s a longshot at winning a spot on Penticton city council.
“I’m the young guy, I have the least amount of experience of any. Those are definitely the things that work against me,” he said in an interview.
“A lot of this campaign has been a steep learning curve for me. My biggest challenge is learning how to approach matters in an appropriate and positive manner. It’s been a lot of fun and very engaging. It’s got me out in the community, attending different events and learning what the issues are and what my stand is on an issue.”
Born and raised in Prince George, he spent part of every summer in Penticton and wants to settle here. He’s presently an apprentice electrician working at Houle Electric. Among the projects he’s worked is hospital expansion. This week, he begins at Penticton Regional Airport.
His campaign will be grassroots, including handing out leaflets at the farmers’ market.
The idea of running for council came about when he was chatting with his friend, Dan Walton, who is running for the school board in Penticton.
“We noticed there’s not a lot of young people who are remotely interested in politics,” Evasin said. “Some are definitely engaged, but when you go to events like the OCP (Official Community Plan) meeting, where they discuss future development, I was probably the youngest person there by at least 20 years.
“I’d like to get more involved to show that young adults do have a future here in Penticton. Everything that happens today is ultimately going to affect me and Penticton 20, 30 and 50 years from now.”