Anthony Okechukwu focused on seniors, business support and economic diversification in council bid

Okechukwu said one of his primary concerns is how municipal finances are managed, adding that council must ensure taxpayer money is being used effectively and responsibly.

Another major focus of his platform is improving the quality of life for seniors, particularly as many struggle with rising costs.

“I want to see where seniors are not making choices between buying food, paying for medications or paying rent,” he said.

According to Okechukwu, conversations with seniors during the campaign have highlighted concerns beyond housing affordability and the cost of living. One issue he said is often overlooked is transportation.

He believes the city should explore options for affordable, subsidized or potentially free transit services for seniors, helping them get to medical appointments and other essential destinations. Access to health care has also emerged as a recurring concern, he said.

“The seniors have also made known that being able to access doctors and physicians is another bigger problem,” Okechukwu said.

He argues local leaders should work with other levels of government and community stakeholders to find ways to support aging residents who have spent decades contributing to Prince George’s growth.

Business support is another key pillar of his campaign. Okechukwu recently participated in a downtown tour organized by the Prince George Chamber of Commerce and city bylaw officials, where council candidates were given a firsthand look at issues affecting downtown businesses and vulnerable residents.

“The people are suffering,” he said. “This is a struggle for many people right now.”

While acknowledging concerns about safety and business impacts in the downtown core, Okechukwu said solutions must also address the needs of people experiencing homelessness and hardship.

“They are human. They should be cared for,” he said, adding that he would work collaboratively with fellow council members and the mayor to seek practical solutions to help individuals move off the streets and access supports.

Looking ahead to economic challenges facing the city, Okechukwu said Prince George must broaden its economic base, particularly as major industrial employers face uncertainty. With the closure of Northwood Pulp expected to have long-term impacts on the municipal tax base, he believes the city should focus on attracting investment and supporting entrepreneurs.

“We need to open up this place more,” he said. “We need to attract more investors and support young people who are going into business.”

Okechukwu pointed to agriculture as one sector with untapped potential, saying more attention should be given to helping local producers expand and contribute to the regional economy.

He also sees opportunities in sports, arts and culture as part of a broader diversification strategy.

“We need to move off from just looking at LNG and forestry and start looking at other sectors that we could capitalize on, support and grow our local economy,” he said.

As the campaign enters its final weeks, Okechukwu said his message to voters is ultimately about supporting local residents, businesses and communities while ensuring the city is prepared for future economic and social challenges.

Election day in Prince George is Saturday, Oct. 17.

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Email: Adam.Berls@pattisonmedia.com

by Adam Berls

Anthony Okechukwu focused on seniors, business support and economic diversification in council bid

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