PORT MOODY
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Your issues. Your candidates.
Your vote. #POMOvotes2018
Profiles Inside Mayoral Candidates pages 3-6 Council Candidates pages 7-12 Trustee Candidates page13-14 Referendum Rundown page15
Photo: The old Port Moody fire hall site that, along with the works yard, is the subject of a referendum as part of the October 20 civic election.
Plus Candidates discuss public land, private homes and affordability Additional coverage at
tricitynews.com/municipal-election
B2 OCTOBER 10, 2018 TRI-CITY NEWS/VOTESMART PORT MOODY
Elect—
Stirling
WARD
PROVIDING A NEW VOICE ON PORT MOODY CITY COUNCIL
BECAUSE IT’S AN IMPORTANT AND EXCITING TIME FOR PORT MOODY Here is my pledge to you… As a member of the City Council, I will work towards ensuring our children and their children will be able to call Port Moody home. I will be a good steward for our community, keeping in mind the taxpayer’s ability to pay. I bring a fresh perspective to City Council, pledging a balanced and thoughtful approach. I am committed to making Port Moody an even more vibrant and healthy community. I care about Port Moody and am proud to call our community home
Community Endorsements Dr. Mary Anne Cooper (Freedom of the City Recipient)
“I am confident Stirling’s persistence and hard work in problem solving, adherence to principles, and long range planning, will provide valuable leadership needed for the future of Port Moody.” Gerry Nuttall (Freedom of the City Recipient & former Councillor)
“Having worked on several civic committees with Stirling I can confidently say that he comes to meetings prepared, is one of the first to volunteer his time and works as a team player. His knowledge of our community and his professionalism has made him invaluable as a leader on any committee or project in which he is involved. Stirling will make a fine City Councillor.”
More at: WWW.STIRLINGWARD.COM
Please vote... I want to hear from you! Contact Stirling at stirling@stirlingward.com or 604.218.4141 www.stirlingward.com
Stirling
WARD
Advance Poll dates are Wed. Oct 10th and Sat. Oct 13th. Voting Day is Sat. Oct 20th Authorized by Bill Hennan, Financial Agent bill.hennan@stirlingward.com
TRI-CITY NEWS/VOTESMART PORT MOODY OCTOBER 10, 2018 B3
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CANDIDATE FOR MAYOR: MIKE CLAY [incumbent]
Clay: Work needs to be done to improve affordability in PoMo
M
ike Clay grew up in Moody Centre. He watched as the neighbourhood transformed from Port Moody’s heart to a hodge-podge assemblage of single-family homes, auto body shops and light industrial when civic facilities like city hall and the library were shifted east to Ioco Road. Now, Clay says his mission is to get that heart beating with residents and shops again. If he’s given a third term as Port Moody’s mayor by voters in the Oct. 20 civic election, Clay said reinvigorating Moody Centre and realizing its potential will be his priority — and the arrival of SkyTrain almost two years ago has made that imperative. “There’s a lot of opportunities there to allow affordable housing that feeds the transit station,” Clay said. “That area is under-utilized and underdeveloped. It isn’t performing to provide an amenity to the city.” Clay said his vision for the 20 acres between St. Johns Street and the Moody Centre Evergreen Extension station, from Moody Street in the west to Electronic Avenue in the east, includes highdensity housing in a mix of highrises and low-rises, shops to service those residents, places for them to work, gather and play, all without having to climb into a car. The general concept was approved by council last spring. Now it needs to happen, Clay said. “We can build it as an anchor for the community,” he said. “That will keep developers from wandering into other neighbourhoods.” Clay said in the 13 years since he was first elected to city council, he has seen — and had a hand in —
“There’s a lot of opportunities there to allow affordable housing that feeds the transit station. The area is under-utilized and underdeveloped.” Mayor Mike Clay on the potential in Moody Centre, the area where he grew up
the city’s transformation from the city in which he grew up, “a town with a mill and a couple of strip clubs in it,” to a vibrant urban community known for its natural environs, restaurants and craft breweries where people want to live, lay down roots and raise families. But Clay admitted that success has brought challenges such as affordability, traffic and pressure on the city’s amenities, including recreation spaces. Clay said keeping Port Moody affordable for families will be achieved by working with developers to build more projects like Woodbridge Properties’ planned six-storey rental building on St. Johns Street, which will be the first purposebuilt rental project in the city in 30 years, as well as deploying new provincial legislation to zone areas of the city like the Woodview Park townhomes in Seaview specifically for rental housing.
Sagheer (aka “Sager”) Jan C Candidate andidate for
• Against pr property operty T Tax ax Incr Increases eases e Single F amily • Lands for mor more Family Homes. • Provide mor more expand existing e&e xpand e xisting Seniors & Youth Youth Community Community Centers, Centers, Libraries, Libraries, Sports Sports Facilities & Parks, etc.
1) Cap Residential & Business taxes 2) Provide more & expand existing Seniors & Youth Community Centers, Libraries, Sports Facilities 3) Lands for Single Family Housings 4) Restrict “High Rises Buildings to six stories only. 5) Prevent selling of housing to “Non” Canadians 6) Transit System with Natural Gas or Electric Buses/Trams 7) Port Moody to Vancouver Sea Bus connection
see YOU NEED, page 6
CONTACT INFO
Phone: 604-330-0132 Email: mike@mikeclay.ca Website: mikeclay.ca Facebook: mayormikeclay Twitter: @MikeEClay
ELECT
RICHARD BIEDKA FOR COUNCILLOR
Councilor Port City of P ort Moody
Running to:
Clay said Port Moody’s traffic challenges are also being dealt with by a $10-million investment that will change the flow of vehicles on some major thoroughfares, create new signalized intersections, add bike infrastructure, improve pedestrian safety and transit access. Funds from future development will add another $20 million to build new crossings over the railway tracks that bisect the city and new access points to the Barnet Highway. Amenities like a new library, seniors’ housing and more recreation facilities to service Port Moody’s growing population are trickier to achieve, Clay said, because they’re expensive and residents won’t stand for a huge tax hit to pay for them. “You don’t tax for $50 million to build a library,” he said. “That would be unattainable.”
Volunteering: Have devoted TIME & CONTRIBUTIONS within the Tri-Cities for the last 25 years; with dozens of festivals and non-profit organizations of Tri-Cities, SUCCESS Immigrations Services, etc.
Platform 1-Work to reduce our taxes to ‘zero’ increases. 2-Address community concerns on traffic and maintenance. 3-Ensure all new developments enhance Port Moody and NOT detract from our current ability to navigate, enjoy and live our community. 4-I am in favour of the David Ave. connector remaining in the Official Community Plan. If David Ave. is extended in the future, I support a minimal impact road.
Academic & Professional Degrees in Geology & Physics (B.Sc), Diploma in Business Administration. Worked as:
• Planning Assistant to Chief, “United Nations Mission” (UNMIL).
ElectRichardBiedka electrichardbiedka.ca
• Manager, Traffice/Logistics “Scientific Atlanta Canada Inc.” (tech co, Burnaby) • President, “Mainland Marketing Ltd.” (Japanese Canadian Co., Vancouver
Authorised and approved by financial agent - Sagheer Jan; sagheer.jan@yahoo.com
STOP THE TAX CREEP!
B4 OCTOBER 10, 2018 TRI-CITY NEWS/VOTESMART PORT MOODY
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CANDIDATE FOR MAYOR: ROb VAgRAMOV
Vagramov: Growth is needed but amenities must keep pace
R
ob Vagramov says he has seen both sides of living in Port Moody. As a young person who grew up in the city, then returned after his third year of studying political science at the University of Ottawa, he knows how tough it can be to set down roots in his hometown with rental accommodation scarce and expensive. The 26-year-old said the rent for his Moody Centre apartment is “pretty high for what I get” and takes him three jobs to be able to pay for it, and he said home ownership is likely “out of reach for me for a very, very, very long time.” But as a city councillor the past four years, Vagramov also knows the pressures of building enough homes for the people who want to live in Port Moody and developing the kind of homes they will be able to afford can exert on a city and the quality of life it offers residents. He said Port Moody is failing on both counts, which is why he’s running for mayor in the Oct. 20 civic election. Vagramov said the zeal with which the city’s current council has embraced growth to take advantage of the opportunities that come with the arrival of SkyTrain and fulfil its obligation to the region’s growth strategy has become disconnected from the reality of living in Port Moody. The results, he said, are development that isn’t suitable or is still financially out of reach for many families and a lack of regard for preserving the lifestyle that makes the city a coveted destination like parks and recreation services. It’s not the kind of city he hoped to have a hand
EXPERIENCED
“We have a very ambitious growth plan. That is what we should be focusing on: How do we maintain our quality of life while achieving the agreed-upon target?” Coun. Rob Vagramov on plans for Port Moody to hit its growth target of 50,000 by 2041
in creating when he was first elected to council in 2014. “I was a little doe-eyed,” he said. “I was excited to see how democracy worked.” The reality of the past four years have quelled his youthful exuberance, Vagramov said, but they haven’t doused his determination to set Port Moody back on the path that earned it a silver award in a United Nations-sponsored livable communities competition in 2004, including a first place in the planning for future growth category. Vagramov said he has no problem with growing Port Moody but that growth has to be at a measured rate so the city can keep pace with its amenities, preserve greenspace and natural habitats, and have infrastructure in place to keep it and its residents moving smoothly. He said that was the intent of the official community plan that was
adopted in 2014 after several years of public consultation with residents. That plan, which is due for renewal in 2019, projected Port Moody’s population to grow to 50,000 residents by 2041. “We have a very ambitious growth plan,” Vagramov said. “That is what we should be focusing on: How do we maintain our quality of life while achieving the agreed-upon target?” The answer, Vagramov said, is negotiations with developers that focus on attaining affordable units for young families, renters, seniors on fixed incomes or just people who want to stay in the same city where they grew up, as well as amenities like park space and community centres in return for density considerations. see POMO IS, page 6
EFFECTIVE
CONTACT INFO
Phone: 778-898-0762 Email: hello@robformayor.ca Website: robformayor.ca Facebook: facebook.com/pomorob
ENTHUSIASTIC
TRUSTED CHAMPION FOR PORT MOODY
A Champion for... Community Planning: Continuing to approve smart growth and development that benefits the community, and making sure that maximum fees and benefits are received through development applications.
Traffic and Transportation: Fast-tracking initiatives and actions supporting pedestrians, cyclists, transit users and drivers where critical issues exist, for example at the intersection of Moody and Murray, at the bottom of the roundabout.
Economic Development: Supporting the new Economic Development Manager in establishing the City as an exciting place to start, grow or maintain a local business and establish local jobs.
Affordable Housing: Implementing policies that support construction of new affordable housing, with a focus on homes for families and seniors.
ELECT AGAIN DIANA DILWORTH FOR CITY COUNCIL For more info visit DianaDilworth.ca, call me at 604.469.8650, or email me at diana@DianaDilworth.ca Authorized by Alison Lui, Financial Agent, info@dianadilworth.ca
TRI-CITY NEWS/VOTESMART PORT MOODY OCTOBER 10, 2018 B5
ROB VAGRAMOV FOR PORT MOODY MAYOR ✓ STICK TO OUR GROWTH PLAN
Focus the upcoming review of our Community Plan on quality of life, not increasing our growth targets
✓ PROTECT AND EXPAND PARKS
Expand Rocky Point Park, unify and protect Bert Flinn Park, and revitalize our smaller neighbourhood parks
✓ PLAN PROPERLY FOR TRANSPORTATION & FACILITIES
Address congestion, modernize the city’s Capital Plan to fund civic facilities without pawning off the last of our publicly-owned land
RobForMayor.ca
Fresh Leadership to Keep Port Moody Amazing
B6 OCTOBER 10, 2018 TRI-CITY NEWS/VOTESMART PORT MOODY
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#POMOvotes2018
CANDIDATES FOR MAYOR
You need people to progress
PoMo is a gem in the region
CLAY / continued from page 3
That’s why leveraging the assets the city already has — such as the vacant property at the corner of Ioco Road and Murray Street that used to house the fire hall as well as the nearby public works yard, which is designated for relocation — is important, Clay said. A plan to do just that by selling the properties to a private developer who would then be required to include provisions for public amenities in their development proposal was put on hold when council decided to gauge public opinion on the idea with a non-binding referendum question in conjunction with the civic vote following a contentious public hearing (referendum, info on page 15). “There’s a million other places you could put a garden that would be better suited than at the busiest intersection in the city,” Clay said of the criticism of the plan. “You should capitalize on that land to get the best return for your taxpayers.” Clay said fears Port Moody is on a path of unfettered growth are largely the result of the city’s complete lack of growth for much of the past decade, when Port Moody’s population grew by just 540 people between 2011 and ’16. He said as the city works to achieve its goal of 50,000 residents by 2041, it will build “properly” by taking advantage of access to transit, concentrating density around its two SkyTrain stations and creating more opportunities for residents to work, shop and play locally. “You need people to make those things happen.”
VAGRAMOV / continued from page 4
tri-city newS FiLe PHOtO
In this photo taken following the 2014 Port Moody civic election, Mayor Mike Clay welcomes a then22-year-old Rob Vagramov to council. Now, the one-term councillor is challenging for Clay’s job.
“These are all the things that make a city livable,” Vagramov said, adding he wants to make the next OCP specifically address quality of life in the city. “This will be a good time to reassess where we’re at.” A particular flashpoint is former old fire hall site at Ioco Road and Murray Street as well as the nearby public works yard. Vagramov said Port Moody needs to retain the properties as a public asset, rather than potentially sell them to a developer, so they can be a possible landing spot for amenities like city hall and library expansion funded by development elsewhere in the city. “We’ve gotten to a place where we’re considering selling the last of our city lands because there hasn’t been proper planning in place,” Vagramov said, adding his role on the board and then as the vice-president of the Lower Mainland Local Government Association has given him an insight into the planning and processes of 33 communities from Pemberton to Hope. Vagramov said his regional experience, along with the four years he has served on council as well as his political science studies, qualify him to take the next step up the political ladder. “I see a city that is a gem among this major urban area,” he said. “The direction we take is going to be up to whoever gets elected.”
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TRI-CITY NEWS/VOTESMART PORT MOODY OCTOBER 10, 2018 B7
Protecting Our Quality of Life
CANDIDATES FOR CITY COUNCILLOR [elect 6] RICHARD BIEDKA Age: over 21 Occupation: national sales for Pacific Seafood Group Port Moody resident for: 25+ years Campaign funding: self-funded Previous community service: When kids were younger, I was involved in: Coquitlam/Moody baseball coaching; Port Moody junior curling; soccer coach; Heritage ski/snowboard and past member of Pleasantside Community Association
If elected, what steps would you take to improve housing affordability in Port Moody?
I would support initiatives that put more money back in residents’ wallets through cost saving and controlling spending to reduce tax burden. This is important as affordability thresholds are different for each person. Support more purpose-built rental housing.
How would you balance Port Moody growth and livability?
Start with a global layout of Port Moody to determine where the opportunities are for possible growth. Tie in the current road/park/amenity network and determine what population density can be supported with these networks. Having this information, you can move forward and determine what is the growth impact on livability and what would be required to maintain/improve it.
What do you believe is the biggest issue facing Port Moody? Affordability.
How can Port Moody attract employment opportunities so residents can work in the same community where they live? Support diversification of zoning. We need a good mix of; industrial, light industrial, commercial so businesses have a place to operate and thrive.
Phone: 604-897-8459 Email: elect@richarddiedka@gmail.com Website: electrichardbiedka.ca • Facebook: electrichardbiedka.ca
DIANA DILWORTH (incumbent) Age: 52 Occupation: manager, government relations, BC Non-Profit Housing Association Port Moody resident for: 27 years Campaign funding: self-funded, individual contributions. Previous community service: In addition to 16 years on council, as a volunteer on boards and organizations, including Crossroads Hospice, Port Moody Aquarians, Golden Spike Days
If elected, what steps would you take to improve housing affordability in Port Moody?
Continue to develop policy to protect renters and rental properties, identify opportunities to partner (with land or monies) to support building of new affordable homes and make seniors housing a priority. Support laneway housing, small lot subdivision and more opportunities for secondary suites.
How would you balance Port Moody growth and livability?
Approve smart growth and development that benefits the community with contributions of public and park space, and increased walkability between neighbourhoods. Focus development around transit hubs. Continue to increase park space and amenities in all neighbourhoods of the City.
RE-ELECT
HUNTER MADSEN for City Council
What do you believe is the biggest issue facing Port Moody?
Managing the impacts of development and traffic, and ensuring that parks and public amenities keep pace with a growing population, in housing that is affordable.
How can Port Moody attract employment opportunities so residents can work in the same community where they live? With a new economic development manager, the city is primed to identify land and space, and develop a strategy to sell our city as an exciting place to start, grow or maintain a business here and establish local jobs.
Phone: 604-469-8650 Email: diana@dianadilworth.ca Website: dianadilworth.ca Facebook: Diana.Dilworth • Twitter: @dianadilworth
TASHA FAYE EVANS Age: 45 Occupation: education Port Moody resident for: I graduated from Port Moody secondary and then returned 10 years ago to raise my family Campaign funding: friends, neighbours and family Previous community service: I worked with city council and local First Nations to create Port Moody’s first National Indigenous People’s Day Celebration. I pioneered the city’s early childhood creative dance education program.
If elected, what steps would you take to improve housing affordability in Port Moody?
Create policies encouraging the creation of rental units and expedite rental development proposals. Mandate that any new development must replace any existing rental units destroyed by the development. Encourage proposals that include housing solutions such as live-work studio spaces, co-ops and provisions for first-time buyers. Participate in and take direction from our city’s Housing Affordability Task Force.
How would you balance Port Moody growth and livability?
Our growth needs to be guided by a long-term master plan that prioritizes quality of life over what is profitable and expedient in the short term. I’ll represent residents to ensure development projects reflect our needs for more community services, traffic control, green space, affordability, and care for our natural environment. I am dedicated to responsible development that both preserves Port Moody’s identity and invests in our community.
What do you believe is the biggest issue facing Port Moody?
Responsible development. Our city’s growth must reflect who we are, preserving our character and enhancing our identity. What we do today affects how we live tomorrow.
“Since joining Council last year, Hunter has been an articulate voice for enhancing Port Moody ’s park lands as the city grows, for advancing use of solar, for affordable rental housing - not just more condos - and for keeping the city ’s densiccation and building in line with the community plan. Hunter is working to protect our quality of life – we need his perspective on Council.” - Dr. Elaine Golds, Port Moody Freedom of the City Honoree
How can Port Moody attract employment opportunities so residents can work in the same community where they live?
Develop a technology and business sector in Moody Centre, creating a hub for high-tech research with potential partnerships with SFU. Transform Murray Street into an arts and entertainment district. Launch a “Made in Port Moody” campaign, drawing attention to our entrepreneurs. Ensure all future development includes affordable spaces for local businesses to thrive.
Phone: 778-355-0057 Email: votetashafayeevans@gmail.com Website: tashafayeevans.com • Twitter: @Vote4Tasha
HUNTERMADSEN.CA Authorized by the Official Agent of Hunter Madsen
B8 OCTOBER 10, 2018 TRI-CITY NEWS/VOTESMART PORT MOODY
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CANDIDATES FOR CITY COUNCILLOR [elect 6] SAGHEER JAN
BARBARA JUNKER (incumbent)
SHARLEEN KARAMANIAN
Age: did not answer Occupation: retired planning assistant to UN mission Port Moody resident for: 30 years Campaign funding: self-funded Previous community service: I have volunteered for the Port Moody Police Crime Watch program, Noon’s Creek salmon hatchery, Golden Spike festivals and for Port Moody’s BC Reform Party election team.
Age: 60 Occupation: union representative Port Moody resident for: 29 years Campaign funding: individual donations Previous community service: I am currently a city councillor for Port Moody. Prior to that, I served on the city’s Environmental Protection, Community Care and Transportation Committees.
Age: did not answer Occupation: manager of accounting services Port Moody resident for: four years Campaign funding: self-funded Previous community service: My volunteer work is cross jurisdictional as I have worked with BC Athletics for over 15 years through coaching/assisting athletes from the Tri-Cities area.
I will support and approve available lands (Flavelle Mill site and Coronation Park, etc.) for: promoting single family housing; capping ever-increasing residential taxes; curbing house sales for nonCanadians, a priority; and sustainable highrises when needed, to a maximum of six storeys.
I would take the following steps: Look for opportunities to partner with provincial and federal governments, non-market housing providers and private industry to increase the supply of rental and affordable housing units. Ensure that future developments include market rental, adaptable, and affordable housings as part of their development.
To continue to build on the city’s role as an approval agency for ongoing/future development and to endorse the type of housing stock that services the diverse community needs. Consideration must include: non-market rentals, mixed-use housing forms; highrise/ ground oriented options as well as expanded choices to existing neighbourhoods.
Port Moody’s growth needs to follow smart growth strategies, which encourage mixed-use density around designated transit oriented development areas. Preserve and expand park spaces, provide transportation choices including walkability, biking and transit options. Ensure community amenities match growth.
Growth and development design must take into account the definition of livability, which in and of itself may differ from resident to resident. Port Moody has to manage the diverse needs of its residents in a proactive approach that includes a variety of physical, cultural and economic amenities and services.
Growth is an issue of concern and we need to ensure that the growth creates a vibrant urban community while respecting our small-town feel.
Based on the 2018 Port Moody citizens survey, growth and development and transportation are the most important local issues that dominate residents’ concerns.
Create employment space by ensuring that development includes residential, commercial, retail and office space. Council recently approved a new position titled economic development manager so that we can best position our city as a destination for employers, retain current business and help them expand.
To encourage sustainable and complete communities, Port Moody should support mixed use developments that combine residential with commercial/retail space. In doing so, both a consumer base is created that can stimulate the demand for goods and services as well as provide opportunities for local employment as an operator or employee.
If elected, what steps would you take to improve housing affordability in Port Moody?
How would you balance Port Moody growth and livability?
The available land in Port Moody will be a mix of residential, offices and businesses according to a well-drawn sustainable development, with roads, parks, senior community centre, library and rec. centre with more sports facilities for our youth and adults alike.
What do you believe is the biggest issue facing Port Moody?
Too much car traffic, not enough public transportation. Business occupation, sales and services, shortage of policing, hospital clinics and tourist information services.
How can Port Moody attract employment opportunities so residents can work in the same community where they live?
Encouraging and providing manufacturing businesses with incentive of lower taxes to provide employment to local residents; it will impact lower greenhouse gas emissions by cutting travel times. With office and retails shops made available and by lowering licence fees, that will attract more retail businesses, providing jobs for the local population.
Phone: 604-469-1247 Email: sagheer.jan@yahoo.com Facebook: Sager Jan
If elected, what steps would you take to improve housing affordability in Port Moody?
How would you balance Port Moody growth and livability?
What do you believe is the biggest issue facing Port Moody?
How can Port Moody attract employment opportunities so residents can work in the same community where they live?
Phone: 604-341-5364 Email: barbara@barbarajunker.ca Website: barbarajunker.ca Facebook: BarbaraJunkerforPortMoodyCouncil
If elected, what steps would you take to improve housing affordability in Port Moody?
How would you balance Port Moody growth and livability?
What do you believe is the biggest issue facing Port Moody?
How can Port Moody attract employment opportunities so residents can work in the same community where they live?
Phone: 604-614-1364 Website: sharleenkaramanian.com Facebook: sharleen.karamanian Twitter: @SharleenKarama1
Port Moody City Council I have a proven track record of effective community empowerment and leadership. I’ve stood shoulder to shoulder with fellow residents advocating for environmental sustainability and health care, fought for inclusivity and acceptance by advocating for a rainbow crosswalk, and organized many community dialogs so people’s voices are heard. On October 20th, I would be honoured to have your vote.
Growth That
Enhances Community Ensuring changes in Port Moody consider the physical and mental health of all residents; growth needs to be balanced with affordability, services, jobs, and community spaces.
Park Expansion and
Public Lands for
Public Good
Environmental Sustainability
Preserving the Firehall Site / Works Yard for future civic facilities and affordable/ seniors housing and working with the Province to establish a plan for health care expansion on Eagle Ridge Lands.
Growing park space as the community grows and developing a parkland acquisition plan.
"Amy is more active in politics than many elected people and more effective through action, too." - Neal Nicholson, former City Councillor, Coquitlam
caring, leading, effective Authorized by Lynell Anderson, Financial Agent
amylubik.ca
TRI-CITY NEWS/VOTESMART PORT MOODY OCTOBER 10, 2018 B9
Re-Elect Councillor
Zoë Royer “Zoë cares about Port Moody. She believes in a strong, vibrant community, a healthy environment and thoughtful, well-considered decision making on every matter before her. I’m pleased to support Zoë for a third term on Council.”
“Zoë is an organic thinker. She’s creative, comfortable with change and listens to the points of view of others. When you work from the positive, as Zoë does, it’s no wonder that ideas about enhancing our city, our shared environment and her passion for the arts float to the surface. We have always valued Zoë’s contributions to council discussions.”
Fin Donnelly, Member of Parliament, Port Moody, Coquitlam, Anmore & Belcarra
Judy & Jim Atkinson, Environmental Stewards “Her voice may be soft but her strength is undeniable; Zoë faces challenges head on, with grace and integrity. She works exceedingly hard to build a compassionate, sustainable and beautiful community, and Port Moody is fabulous as a result! Zoë always puts people first and her creative and thoughtful approach is something I will always admire about her.”
“Zoë is a kind-hearted and hardworking Councillor whom I am honoured to call a friend. As a Port Moody business owner, long time community volunteer, and mother of two daughters, she understands the hardships facing families and seniors. She is a great asset to Port Moody.”
Laura Dupont, Port Coquitlam Councillor
Lisa Park, SD43 Port Moody School Trustee
PORT MOODY CITY COUNCILLOR
LEADERSHIP FAIRNESS INTEGRITY • Chair, Arts & Culture Committee • Chair, Seniors Focus Committee • Vice Chair, Community Planning Advisory Committee • Vice Chair, Heritage Commission • Library Trustee of five years • Co-founder, The Shuffle, Port Moody Art Walk 2018
BETTER AMENITITES
An Inclusive Society
Arts Immersion!
Vote
Embracing Diversity
Expanded Library
Senior’s Centre & Housing
Revitalized Inlet Sports Field
Universal Access
Gentle Density
Congestion Management
Car Share / Ride Share Options
TRAFFIC & TRANSIT
Cycling & Pedestrian Connectivity
WALKABLE, GREEN PORTMOODY
Safe, Walkable Neighbourhoods
Rocky Point Park Expansion
Wildlife Conservation
Environmental Protection
Innovation & Technology
Food Security
STRONG LOCAL TRANSPARENT ECONOMY GOVERNMENT
More Employment Space
Shop Local!
Public Lands Referendum
Community Consultation
Fiscal Responsibility
• Founder & Chair, Kaboom! the Port Moody Art Explosion
CULTURE
Zoë
Oct 20
zoeroyer.ca Authorized by Zoë Royer, financial agent, 778-899-0095
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CANDIDATES FOR CITY COUNCILLOR [elect 6] MEGHAN LAHTI (incumbent)
AMY LUBIK
HUNTER MADSEN (incumbent)
Age: did not answer Occupation: business owner Port Moody resident for: 30 years Campaign funding: family, self-funded. Previous community service: First elected in 1996; the longest-serving council candidate running in the election.
Age: 35 Occupation: health policy analyst Port Moody resident for: five years, and had my first job as a baker at a Port Moody deli Campaign funding: Individual donations from residents and family Previous community service: I have served on the environmental protection/ climate action committees, and petitioned for a rainbow crosswalk, a streamlined solar process, mental health supports, and Pharmacare.
Age: 63 Occupation: city councillor and fine-art photographer Port Moody resident for: four years Campaign funding: self-funded, crowdfunded Previous community service: Serving on city council since 2017 byelection; library board and Heritage Commission member, co-organizer, Save Bert Flinn Park.
If elected, what steps would you take to improve housing affordability in Port Moody?
Development of an affordable housing action plan, in conjunction with the following: below-market land leases; zoning for infill development; donating land and partnering; expediting approvals; inclusionary zoning; utilizing the affordable housing reserve; encouraging laneway housing; purpose-built rental; land banks; and reducing fee/waiving fees.
How would you balance Port Moody growth and livability?
I support moderate, sustainable growth by holding firm when development proposals are not in keeping with Port Moody’s vision to create a livable community. When approving development applications, we must ensure that the provision of parks and greenspace are in pace with development. Lastly, focus on minimizing urban sprawl by creating compact urban areas in the transit-oriented development areas.
What do you believe is the biggest issue facing Port Moody?
Climate change. Our ability to adapt to and mitigate climate change impacts is going to be the key to ensuring that Port Moody remains the sustainable and livable community it is today.
How can Port Moody attract employment opportunities so residents can work in the same community where they live?
To help increase the number of employment opportunities in Port Moody, the city must continue to promote developments that generate local jobs and integrate residential areas with retail and other forms of commercial and office space. Economic development strategies also need to promote jobs that are respective of the resident labour force.
Phone: 778-879-9437 Email: meghan@meghanlahti.com Website: meghanlahti.com Facebook: meghanlahti2018
If elected, what steps would you take to improve housing affordability in Port Moody?
If elected, what steps would you take to improve housing affordability in Port Moody?
I think we need to mandate that all new developments over 60 units should include at least 10% to 30% affordable housing (as Richmond and Vancouver have done), and prioritize the permitting process for developments that meet those requirements. We should also investigate providing affordable housing on city-owned land.
How would you balance Port Moody growth and livability?
We have committed to 2.5 hectares of new park space per 1,000 new residents; we need to develop a plan for this. We need to create and maintain local jobs in conjunction with the other Tri-Cities, so our residents can spend more time in the community instead of commuting.
What do you believe is the biggest issue facing Port Moody?
Balancing development with keeping the feeling of community that we all value, which includes trying to make sure residents can afford to stay.
How can Port Moody attract employment opportunities so residents can work in the same community where they live?
The economic development officer should establish relationships with innovative business, like high tech and health, as well as post-secondary institutions, and identify key anchor tenants for new developments. We should also lobby the province for zoning chances to commercial properties so small businesses pay different rates than big chains.
Phone: 604-767-0914 Email: info@amylubik.ca Website: amylubik.ca Facebook: amylubikportmoody Twitter: @amy_lubik
ON OCTOBER 20, 2018 - ELECT
SHARLEEN KARAMANIAN FOR PORT MOODY COUNCIL
Continuing work on council’s Housing Affordability Task Force, I will push developer negotiations harder to include affordable rental and family units, not just luxury condos; promote local building partnerships; introduce inclusionary zoning for rentals; and support B.C. limits on housing speculation, and introduction of a land-value escalation tax.
How would you balance Port Moody growth and livability?
The current city vision has PoMo growing 25% faster than our residents approved in the official community plan. This pace will seriously strain municipal services and amenities, accelerate park wear, burden taxpayers, and worsen gridlock. To protect quality of life, get growth back onto the approved plan and do smarter planning.
What do you believe is the biggest issue facing Port Moody?
Do we want moderate growth that enhances Port Moody’s amazing quality of life? Or a runaway construction boom that threatens it and sidesteps our OCP?
How can Port Moody attract employment opportunities so residents can work in the same community where they live?
Rethink the city’s current condo-oriented plan for Moody Centre, instead building out the area to establish a thriving clean industry/ tech hub and/or university extension that can bring more well-paying jobs to Port Moody, not just low-paid retail/service jobs that won’t support living here. Also, support medical services around Eagle Ridge Hospital hub.
Email: hunter@madsenforcouncil.ca Website: huntermadsen.ca Facebook: HunterMadsenforCityCouncil
EXPERIENCED AND INNOVATIVE LEADERSHIP WORKING FOR YOU SINCE 1996
RE-ELECT
Meghan
My Priorities: • Smart Growth and Strategic Community Development
LAHTI
• Strong Fiscal Governance “First elected in 1996, Meghan brings the most experience, leadership & knowledge to the Port Moody council table”
• Preservation and enhancement of Parks, Recreation and Green Spaces • Increase Economic Development
“As your City Councillor I will promote local issues and listen to your community interests when making decisions for the City.”
PRACTICAL
K
DEDICATED
604.614.1364
FISCALLY RESPONSIBLE
sharleenkaramanian.com
email: votesharleenkaramanian@gmail.com
Authorized by Sharleen Karamanian, Financial Agent: votesharleenkaramanian@gmail.com
✔ Experienced ✔ Innovative ✔ Leadership meghanlahti.com *Paid for, sponsored and authorized by Meghan Lahti.
TC PORT MOODY
TRI-CITY NEWS/VOTESMART PORT MOODY OCTOBER 10, 2018 B11
#POMOvotes2018
CANDIDATES FOR CITY COUNCILLOR [elect 6] JIMMY MALAMAS
STEVE MILANI
JAMES ROBERTSON
Age: 62 Occupation: semi-retired businessman Port Moody resident for: 30 years Campaign funding: self-funded Previous community service: Served on executive committees, coached, managed minor hockey, women’s hockey, lacrosse, baseball, girls’ softball, ringette and fundraising events. Host a large block party in the summer.
Age: 54 Occupation: goldsmith and music professional Port Moody resident for: 20 years Campaign funding: self-funding, donations Previous community service: Longtime member of Moody Centre Community Association, serving in recent years as a board director. Member of Citizen Advisory Group.
Age: 40 Occupation: consultant and leadership coach Port Moody resident for: 2.5 years Campaign funding: self-funded, individual donors Previous community service: I served on the board of directors of Burrard Inlet Marine Enhancement Society and Mossom Creek Hatchery
If elected, what steps would you take to improve housing affordability in Port Moody?
Approving developers/builders who are not only marketing housing for speculative buyers. Attracting business to set up shop offering competitive living wages to residents. Ensuring a strong middle class in Port Moody. I’d like to have families and also their children be able to afford to stay in Port Moody.
How would you balance Port Moody growth and livability?
The community plan written over the past decades, must be reexamined. Future approval for developers must be examined carefully to ensure it’s meant for livability versus speculative buyers. We want small business to prosper with a strong middle class and everyone taking care of vulnerable residents. We need balance.
What do you believe is the biggest issue facing Port Moody?
I am focusing my campaign on three major issues: transportation, parking and congestion; access to public services; and failure to adequately plan long term for all citizens.
How can Port Moody attract employment opportunities so residents can work in the same community where they live?
The entrepreneur is the one creating job growth. We need to create a competitive environment for business to come and make Port Moody their home. Along with that the worker will also be able to make their homes here.
Phone: 778-996-8887 Email: jim@malamas.ca Facebook: Jimmy Malamas Port Moody Council
✔
If elected, what steps would you take to improve housing affordability in Port Moody?
Look into available government grants and possible partnerships to provide both affordable rentals and seniors’ housing.
How would you balance Port Moody growth and livability?
We need to look at the city in its entirety, not simply project by project. We need to build a strong local economy, increasing the number of local jobs while planning for amenities, greenspace, affordable housing and transit-oriented infrastructure, including pedestrians and bicycles, to create a holistic community.
What do you believe is the biggest issue facing Port Moody?
Exceeding growth targets, lack of proper planning for the future and ignoring current traffic concerns — all affect the quality of life for Port Moody residents.
If elected, what steps would you take to improve housing affordability in Port Moody?
I would support more transit-oriented development that provides better and more housing for growing families and potential employment opportunities. I would also continue to explore opportunities and solutions with Metro Vancouver and provincial stakeholders.
How would you balance Port Moody growth and livability?
Allow growth and development in areas with easy access to transit; seek commercial anchor tenants to provide employment opportunities closer to home; work with stakeholders to allow residents to age in place with more integrated healthcare options; and improve amenities while bringing life to our streets by implementing beautification and active transportation plans.
What do you believe is the biggest issue facing Port Moody?
How can Port Moody attract employment opportunities so residents can work in the same community where they live?
How do we best face issues of growth, affordability, and climate change in a courageous manner that supports newcomers, growing families and long-term residents?
Phone: 604-931-5151 Email: info@stevemilani.ca Website: stevemilani.ca
Seek commercial anchor tenants with developments around easy transit access that provides ample office space for mature businesses while also allowing start-ups efficient space to scale and remain in the city. This should include great local amenities and vibrant streetscapes that are attractive to an emerging younger generation of workers.
We need to create an economic hub in Moody Centre featuring a couple mid-rise office buildings, low-rise residences and a hotel. We then need to actively seek out clean industries, explaining to them why Port Moody is the place to be! This will also contribute to our commercial tax base.
FROESE, Ryan School Trustee Port Moody
• Identify and secure future school sites. We need to Determine our future growth needs and identify ideal school sites to best serve our community. • With 2 kids in the Port Moody public school system, I understand fi rst hand first the needs and Issues of Port Moody Families. • Logical solutions to catchment boundary changes. Visit my web site for all the details. • Municipal Councillor (2014-2018) - Chair of the Public Safety Committee - Chair of the Environment Committee • As a Municipal Councillor Councillor,, I understand the relationship between the school board and municipality as well as the importance of budgeting and planning for capital expenditures well into the future.
✔ FROESE, Ryan
School Trustee
www.FroeseForTrustee.com 604.652.5876 Authorized by Ryan Froese, Financial agent, 604-652-5876
How can Port Moody attract employment opportunities so residents can work in the same community where they live?
Phone: 778-991-7248 Email: james@jamesrobertson.ca Website: www.jamesrobertson.ca Facebook: James Robertson PoMo Twitter: @JamesR_VanBC
B12 OCTOBER 10, 2018 TRI-CITY NEWS/VOTESMART PORT MOODY
TC PORT MOODY
#POMOvotes2018
CANDIDATES FOR CITY COUNCILLOR [elect 6] ZOE ROYER (incumbent)
STIRLING WARD
Age: 52 Occupation: city councillor and business owner Port Moody resident for: 14 years Campaign funding: individual donations and ticket sales for fundraising event Previous community service: Volunteered for many local non-profits, city councillor, chaired or vice-chaired most civic committees, Library trustee, founder KaBoom, co-founder Shuffle ArtWalk, business owner.
Age: did not answer Occupation: commercial photographic illustrator Port Moody resident for: 10 years Campaign funding: did not answer Previous community service: It has been my honour to serve my community over the years.
If elected, what steps would you take to improve housing affordability in Port Moody?
Obviously this is a critical issue that will require a team effort at all levels of government to mitigate.
If elected, what steps would you take to improve housing affordability in Port Moody?
How would you balance Port Moody growth and livability?
Inclusive community means our kids can afford to live here, seniors can age in place. Prioritize gentle densification, partner with non-profits, churches and senior government.
How would you balance Port Moody growth and livability?
Housing affordability, growth and livability are all interrelated. Please refer to my website; www.stirlingward.com.
What do you believe is the biggest issue facing Port Moody?
As we grow and age, we must invest in recreation spaces, library, purpose-built seniors amenities and protect greenspaces. We must ensure accessibility, walkability and cycling connectivity, well-maintained facilities, roads, parks and trails. Creating more employment space in PoMo would strengthen our economy, family life and ability to volunteer.
What do you believe is the biggest issue facing Port Moody?
We have an affordability crisis. Seniors are being squeezed out, families and youth are cost of living-poor. Preserve our public lands for public use.
How can Port Moody attract employment opportunities so residents can work in the same community where they live?
Our community is our home and sanctuary, let’s work together to continue with the present we are so fortunate to have, to create an even better future, ensuring that our children, and their children, will be able to call Port Moody home.
How can Port Moody attract employment opportunities so residents can work in the same community where they live?
We need to focus less of our tax base on individual homeowners and support the growth of local businesses and the relocation of existing businesses to Port Moody. We need to move forward on this one!
Phone: 604-218-4141 Email: stirling@stirlingward.com Website: stirlingward.com
This has been my platform for the last seven years on council. We must prioritize and incentivize the creation of more employment space. Work closely with investors trying to bring their businesses here. Reduce obstacles to samaritans who want to preserve heritage for commercial space on/near historic Clarke St.
Phone: 778-899-0095 Website: zoeroyer.ca Facebook: CouncillorZoeRoyer Twitter: @zoeroyer
OCT 20
CANDIDATE VIDEOS The Tri-City News once again this election teamed up with Tri-Cities Community TV to shoot videos of candidates for mayor, city councillor and school trustee in Port Moody, Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam. Mayoral candidates were allotted two minutes each while councillor and trustee candidates were given one minute apiece. You can check out all the videos at tricitynews.com/municipal-election.
LEADER. ENERGETIC. RELIABLE
RE-ELECT BARBARA JUNKER FOR PORT MOODY CITY COUNCIL
PRIORITIES
EXPERIENCE
Ensure responsible, sustainable development Increase green space and parks Increase economic development
• Four years on City Council • Chair - Arts and Culture Committee, Heritage Commission, fire Department Advisory Committee • Vice Chair- Environmental Protection Committee, Economic Development Committee, Climate Action Committee, and Tourism Committee
barbarajunker.ca Authorized by Mike Fricker 604-936-7103, financial agent for Barbara Junker
TRI-CITY NEWS/VOTESMART PORT MOODY OCTOBER 10, 2018 B13
TC PORT MOODY
#POMOvotes2018
CANDIDATES FOR SCHOOL TRUSTEE [elect 2] Ryan FRoese
sHaUnDa MooRe
nanCy oWens
Age: 41 Occupation: realtor Campaign funding: self-funding, friends/ associates Previous community service: Anmore village councillor
Age: 44 Occupation: wife, mother of five and small business owner Campaign funding: self-funded Previous community service: actively involved in my children’s school’s for 15 years, serving on PACs and being involved with many events and committees
Age: 45 Occupation: marketing coordinator Campaign funding: self-funded, friends, family Previous community service: community and school volunteer who has a passion for community engagement, and a lifelong commitment to public education
Do you support the board of education taking a lead role in creating daycare spaces in schools, and why?
Do you support the board of education taking a lead role in creating daycare spaces in schools, and why?
Do you support the board of education taking a lead role in creating daycare spaces in schools, and why? Yes, we need to have safe areas for our kids.
Do you support the use of soGI 123 curriculum in schools to support the inclusion of LGBTQ+2 youth, and why? I’m inclusive of everyone
Do you support trustee trips to China paid for by the Chinese government through cultural grants from the Confucius Institute, and why?
These funds consist of 10% of the annual budget ($35 million). We can allocate these students to keep enrolment up in under-utilized schools
Do you support the expenditure of $36 million for a new school board building, and why?
We need to keep up with the growth demands. I also have ideas on how to best budget for future capital cost and ways we can save on future school sites.
Yes, I believe that any way we can create collaborative environments for our youth to remain in school to provide them with more opportunities for their futures is a must. Every child should have the opportunity to go to school regardless of their circumstances.
Yes. Most of my friends are SD43 parents, and I have heard from many that child care/daycare is a big issue. If elected, I look forward to learning more about this matter and finding ways to address these concerns.
I support all education around health, wellness, safety and all information and issues facing our LGBTQ+2 youth. Education, enquiry, kindness and compassion with an emphasis on gaining understanding need to be cornerstones of these conversations.
Yes, in general, I am very supportive of any initiative that promotes inclusivity and celebrates diversity.
Do you support the use of soGI 123 curriculum in schools to support the inclusion of LGBTQ+2 youth, and why?
Do you support trustee trips to China paid for by the Chinese government through cultural grants from the Confucius Institute, and why?
What do you hope to accomplish as a school trustee?
I am unsure as to why they are necessary and not certain that there is not a conflict of interest.
email: froesefortrustee@gmail.com
I would be interested to see how the decision was made and finalized, and why operating funds would be used for a capital expense.
To Identify and secure the best future school sites to meet our growth demands in Port Moody. We have thousands of more residents coming, and not enough schools.
Do you support the expenditure of $36 million for a new school board building, and why? What do you hope to accomplish as a school trustee?
I will have an open-door policy and offer a voice for our children and families. I want to ensure we are providing a safe and stimulating and inclusive environment where all children will thrive. It’s essential to invest resources into health, wellness and safety starting in Grade 1.
eDIToR’s noTe Re. CaTHy Cena
although Cathy Cena’s name will appear on the ballot for school trustee representing Port Moody, she has withdrawn her name from the race due to work commitments.
Phone: 604-864-1881 email: shaunda.m.moore@gmail.com Website: shaundamoore.com Facebook: shaunda Moore for school Trustee sD43 Instagram: moore.shaunda
Do you support the use of soGI 123 curriculum in schools to support the inclusion of LGBTQ+2 youth, and why?
Do you support trustee trips to China paid for by the Chinese government through cultural grants from the Confucius Institute, and why?
I feel it would be premature to state my opinion on this. But I am committed to learning more about this topic — and I welcome any input people have to offer.
Do you support the expenditure of $36 million for a new school board building, and why?
At this point, I don’t have all the facts, so I am reluctant to form a formal position. However, from what I do know, a new school board building is much needed and there may be designated money put aside to build it.
What do you hope to accomplish as a school trustee?
I hope to build relationships both within the district and with partner groups. I commit to doing more than my share and to working hard to ensure all members of our school communities feel heard and understood. As an SD43 volunteer, and a mom of three kids in the district, I understand that when school community members (teachers, staff, families) feel heard, supported and represented, true progress can be made — and the kids of SD43 will benefit.
Phone: 604-836-9179 email: nancyowens@telus.net Facebook: nancyowenssD43schoolTrusteePortMoody
VOTE Nancy Owens SD43 School Trustee, Port Moody
A passion for community engagement, and a lifelong commitment to public education. If elected, I will bring with me: • The perspective of a person who grew up in Port Moody, attended SD43 schools, LIVES in the community, and is currently raising my three schoolaged children here. • A promise to go above and beyond, do more than my share, and always maintain strong relationships with school communities and partner groups. I promise to always listen. • A commitment to understanding the childcare needs of SD43 families, and exploring ways to address these concern • A strong commitment to supporting programs such as SOGI, and initiatives like Orange Shirt Day. There is always room to be more compassionate and inclusive! • A belief that there needs to be increased equity throughout our diverse school district, in order to ensure the needs of ALL students are being met As well, I would like to stress that my campaign is not aligned with any political party or union. I am running as an independent candidate, who will always work in the best interests of the kids, parents, and school communities…. no strings attached!
www.nancyowens.ca Authorized by Nancy Owens, nancyowens@telus.net
B14 OCTOBER 10, 2018 TRI-CITY NEWS/VOTESMART PORT MOODY
TC PORT MOODY
#POMOvotes2018
CANDIDATES FOR SCHOOL TRUSTEE [elect 2] LISA PARK (incumbent)
KEITH WATKINS (incumbent)
Age: 38 Occupation: Burnaby School District teacher and Port Moody trustee Campaign funding: individual donors Previous community service: Port Moody school trustee
Age: 68 Occupation: self-employed businessman Campaign funding: self-funded Previous community service: school trustee for 25 years, volunteer with the Pleasantside Community Association and with Golden Spike Days
Do you support the board of education taking a lead role in creating daycare spaces in schools, and why?
NOTES AbOuT ThiS SEcTiON
n Articles on the mayoral candidates are
based on interviews
Do you support the board of education taking a lead role in creating daycare spaces in schools, and why?
I strongly support the board of education taking a lead role in creating daycare spaces in schools. Families in SD43 are experiencing a daily crisis in trying to access quality affordable early childhood education. Currently, only about 20% of families with young children have access to licensed child care.
Accessible, affordable daycare is an essential part of a progressive, caring community which is why in spring of 2018, I presented a motion urging the board to be a lead stakeholder in the creation of access to such spaces in our district.
I strongly support the use of SOGI 123 curriculum in schools to support the inclusion of LGBTQ + 2 youth. Every time I go into the classroom and see my students from all walks of life, I’m reminded of how every single one of them deserves fairness and opportunities.
Yes, it is imperative that our schools are inclusive and our students have a safe environment to learn in. Having a transgender sibling has given me a personal perspective into the importance of these kinds of programs for school aged children.
I don’t support trustee trips to China paid for by the Chinese government through cultural grants from the Confucius Institute.
The relationship fostered through these trips are important to continue our successful international program. However, I understand the concerns; therefore, we need an appropriate funding model.
Do you support the use of SOGI 123 curriculum in schools to support the inclusion of LGBTQ+2 youth, and why?
Do you support trustee trips to China paid for by the Chinese government through cultural grants from the Confucius Institute, and why? Do you support the expenditure of $36 million for a new school board building, and why?
We need a new school board building but I don’t support the expenditure of $36 million for a new school board building. We need to look at other sites and options.
What do you hope to accomplish as a school trustee?
I hope to accomplish fiscal accountability, and a safe and healthy learning environment, a 21st century education and fairness and opportunities as a school trustee. I will continue to research and deliver ways to provide flexible, integrated, diverse and active learning environments and to create a safer and healthier learning environment for our students.
Phone: 604-790-9406 Email: votelisaparkagent@gmail.com Website: votelisapark.ca Facebook: VoteForLisaPark
Do you support the use of SOGI 123 curriculum in schools to support the inclusion of LGBTQ+2 youth, and why?
Do you support the expenditure of $36 million for a new school board building, and why?
While I support the need for a new building centralizing services and improving operations, I believe an alternate location would have better utilized tax dollars. I will continue to be a strong voice for the citizens of Port Moody and work to develop more environmental education activities on school sites. I plan to continue dialogue with sports organizations and other community groups to maximize use of school sites for the effective use of taxpayer dollars.
Phone: 604-469-9117 Email: votekeithwatkins@shaw.ca Website: keithwatkins.ca Facebook: ReElectKeithWatkins
n Text by reporters Mario Bartel (council)
and Diane Strandberg (trustees)
n Editing and design by editor
Richard Dal Monte
Do you support trustee trips to China paid for by the Chinese government through cultural grants from the Confucius Institute, and why?
What do you hope to accomplish as a school trustee?
n city council and school trustee candidate briefs are based on interviews and candidates’ responses to an online survey
ERRORS & OmISSIONS Attention candidates: Any errors of fact in the profiles in this section will be corrected in either the Friday, Oct. 12 or Wednesday, Oct. 17 editions of The Tri-City News. Errors must be brought to our attention no later than 9 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 11 for inclusion in the next day’s paper or no later than 8 a.m. Monday, Oct. 15 for inclusion in the Oct. 17 paper; please email information on any errors to the editor at newsroom@tricitynews.com.
Get out and vote, Port Moody! Election Day is
Eligible voters can cast their vote at any one of the following locations:
OCTOBER
Glenayre Community Centre 492 Glencoe Drive Heritage Mountain Community Centre 200 Panorama Place Kyle Centre 125 Kyle Street
Vote between 8am–8pm 2018 Community Opinion Question The 2018 ballot will also include an important question about the sale, partial sale, or lease of the former Fire Hall and existing Works Yard sites on Murray Street. Learn more at portmoody.ca/vote.
604.469.4500 www.portmoody.ca
Port Moody Recreation Complex 300 Ioco Road
Find candidate profiles and more at
portmoody.ca/vote
TC PORT MOODY
TRI-CITY NEWS/VOTESMART PORT MOODY OCTOBER 10, 2018 B15
#POMOvotes2018
THE FIRE HALL SITE REFERENDUM
Voters get a say in future of fire hall property P ort Moody voters won’t just be casting ballots for mayor, council and school trustee Oct. 20. They’ll also get a chance to have their say in determining the fate of the city’s former fire hall site at the corner of Ioco Road and Murray Street as well as the nearby public works yard. The fire hall site has been vacant since the opening of the new Inlet Centre fire hall next door in 2014. The public works yard, a little further west along Murray Street, is scheduled to be relocated to a new site on Barnet Highway. Last April, Port Moody council voted to defer a proposal to rezone and change the designation of the properties. Those changes would have allowed the city to explore opportunities to sell the properties to a developer to build a mix of residential and commercial buildings up to 26 storeys as well as construct civic amenities such as a new library, public plaza and seniors housing in return for density bonuses. But that idea was scuttled following a boisterous public meeting that heard from more than 20 speakers, many of them opposed to selling the land for development. Instead, councillors opted to put the matter on hold until after a non-binding referendum question to be included on ballots in the Oct. 20 elections. The question voters will be asked is: “Do you support the sale, partial sale, or lease of the former Fire Hall and existing Works Yard sites to pay for more park land and one or more of the community improvements listed above?” The question will be prefaced by some background information of potential community improvements targeted by the city’s official community plan and how the sale of the properties might play a role in realizing those improvements. And while Port Moody council won’t be bound by the results of the referendum question, a statement on the city’s website said vote results “will provide important input about the community’s wishes” that can be used in future decisions.
MARIO BARTEL/ThE TRI-cITy nEwS
It’s empty now but won’t be forever. And answering a question about the future of the former Port Moody fire hall site in the non-binding referendum that is part of the municipal election Saturday, Oct. 20 will help the next city council decide what to do with the land.
B16 OCTOBER 10, 2018 TRI-CITY NEWS/VOTESMART PORT MOODY