As a proud Canadian immigrant from Hong Kong, Jackie Lee has called Richmond home since 1995. Prior to his launch into politics as an MLA candidate for Richmond-Steveston, Lee was a successful businessman in event production for many years. As a local business leader, he has served as Rotarian President, Lions Club President and Lions Club Zone Chairperson.
With a background in business, it's no surprise that Lee possesses a deep understanding of the challenges small businesses face. "Small businesses are the backbone of our community and we have to help them thrive by cutting the bureaucratic red tape and costs," says Lee.
Lee hopes to bring his business acumen and common sense approach to help resolve Richmond’s most pressing challenges. “The Richmond Hospital expansion is currently delayed and over budget,” Lee says. “We need to deliver major projects on time and within budget.”
Another key priority for Lee is the Massey Tunnel replacement project. “Traffic between Richmond and Delta is becoming increasingly congested,” he notes. “We need to start the replacement project as soon as possible.”
Lee’s father is a retired chief hospital administrator in Hong Kong. Growing up, he understood the impact of drugs and the importance of treatments. One of his key priorities is focusing resources on drug treatment programs. "We need to help affected Canadians get back on their feet," Lee emphasizes.
On any given day, you'll see Lee out in the community putting his wide-ranging skills to hard work for his fellow British Columbians. His countless hours of volunteer work have made a significant impact on various groups in need, including seniors and patients, through volunteering and raising funds for organizations like the Richmond Kiwanis Senior Citizens Housing Society, Richmond Hospital Foundation, Richmond Christmas Fund, Richmond Food Bank, BC Women’s Health Foundation and more.
"I have been volunteering in the community for nearly 30 years. Giving back to this country is what gives me the greatest joy,” says Lee.
In Lee’s community work, he gained valuable experience working with the Richmond RCMP. The recent surge in random attacks across the province, especially targeting Chinese seniors and women, has shaken Lee to his core.
“We have to make sure to address violent and repeat offenders on our streets freely and that those in need of help are given appropriate attention and care”, Lee asserts.
In recognition of his contribution to the community, Lee was given the 2023 Richmond Centre Outstanding Constituent Award, for his selfless commitment, dedication and relentless efforts to bring about positive change within the community.
As an unaffiliated MLA candidate, Lee is prepared to work with the governing party to advocate for policies that benefit Richmond. With a coalition of over 15 unaffiliated and independent candidates, he believes that together, they could enact meaningful changes for their communities.
Lee has already reached out to over 10,000 households and is the only MLA candidate in the riding to have received endorsements from Richmond city councilors Alexa Loo and Chak Au, former Richmond city councilor and SUCCESS CEO Tung Chan, former Richmond Mayor and MLA Greg Halsey-Brandt, and former MLA for Richmond-Steveston John Yap, who served for 15 years until his retirement in 2020.
For more information, visit jackielee.ca
Authorized by Mingson Chui, financial agent for Jackie Lee, 604-418-2800