Teri has called Coquitlam home for 27 years. She is the proud mother of two adult children and is delighted to now be a grandmother to her young grandson.
Teri holds a Business degree from Simon Fraser University and had rewarding careers in banking, human resources and the non-profit sector.
A passionate community volunteer and leader, Teri has dedicated decades of service to initiatives that strengthen connection, inclusion and quality of life in the community. Her current and recent volunteer involvements include:
- Burke Mountain Naturalists - supporting environmental stewardship initiatives
- 100 Women Who Care Tri-Cities - founding member
- Meaningful Meals for Seniors - volunteer delivery & conversation
- Local Leaders for Mental Health; Certificate in Resilient Leadership
- Mentor – supporting youth, women and aspiring elected officials
- Habitat for Humanity Family Partnering Committee 2018 - 2026
- In 2016, Teri co-founded the TriCities Friends of Refugees Task Group (TFOR), which she led as it evolved into a registered non-profit society and later rebranded as In Your Corner ReStart Society
Over the years, Teri has also contributed extensive volunteer leadership to numerous community organizations and initiatives. For more details about her volunteerism and resulting awards, please visit: https://coquitlam.ca/868/Councillor-Teri-Towner
First elected to Coquitlam City Council in 2014, Teri remains deeply honoured to serve her community. Her priorities have always been people-focused and rooted in making Coquitlam an even better place to live. She remains committed to enhancing livability in Coquitlam, with a focus on traffic safety - particularly around schools - recreation, environmental sustainability, accessibility, housing, seniors and families.
Today, she serves as Chair of Coquitlam’s Economic Development Advisory Committee and Cultural Services Advisory Committee, while also representing the city on several regional boards and committees focused on housing, governance, and other important issues.
Over the years, she has chaired or served as vice-chair for numerous advisory committees focused on sports and recreation, community safety, multiculturalism, and sustainability, and homelessness and housing.
Teri feels that public service is about listening, building relationships, and bringing people together to address issues and find solutions. She believes the best decisions are made through collaboration, thoughtful planning, and a genuine commitment to the community. Teri recognizes it is a privilege to serve the residents of Coquitlam, and remains as passionate as ever about helping our city continue to thrive for generations to come.