A Livable Coquitlam
I’ve spent 12 years on Coquitlam Council, and if there’s one word that has guided me through almost all decisions at the table, it’s livability. Not as an abstract planning term, but as a simple question I ask myself: will this make life better for the people who live here?
Livability is the measure of how well a city supports the wellbeing, and quality of life of the people who call it home. It’s about more than growth - it’s about building neighbourhoods that are safe, welcoming, connected, and enjoyable at every age and stage of life, while protecting the qualities that make Coquitlam special.
To me, livability means:
• Green and healthy - beautiful parks, an abundance of trees, clean air, welcoming public gathering places, and recreation opportunities that support active, healthy lifestyles.
• Housing that fits real lives - a genuine variety of housing types and options, practical layouts, family-friendly design, storage, parking and the amenities that make everyday life easier.
• A city built for people - safe streets and sidewalks, walkable neighbourhoods, cycling infrastructure, reliable transportation, and attractive, accessible public spaces that strengthen our sense of community; Minimizing construction impacts on existing neighbourhoods as our city continues to grow.
• Places that bring us together - public art, community gardens, dog parks, trails, pools, arenas, community centres, arts and culture spaces - amenities that make Coquitlam a city people are proud to call home.
• A sense of connection - festivals, celebrations, cultural gatherings, volunteer opportunities, programs for youth and seniors, summer camps for kids, opportunities to be civically engaged; a caring community supporting those facing challenges
These are the things local government controls, and after 12 years on Council, I’ve learned to focus my energy where it actually makes a difference. I can’t control the macroeconomic climate, inflation, or geopolitical unrest - but as your City Councillor, I will stay focused on what I can control. I will keep working hard to protect and improve livability for all Coquitlam residents. I know these differences have a measurable impact on people’s daily lives.
A truly livable city also offers services families rely on every day. Schools, childcare, and healthcare - including mental health services - aren’t municipal responsibilities, but I hear about them repeatedly at the door and in my inbox. These are essential to our residents’ quality of life and I will keep pushing senior governments to deliver the investments our growing community needs.
Livability isn’t a slogan. It’s the daily work of getting the fundamentals right and I’m asking for your vote to keep doing it.