Candidate Profiles
Candidate profiles are being posted on the website as they are received over the coming days.
Mayor
Candidate names are listed in the order they will appear on election ballots.
SPARROW, Michelle |
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WHITMARSH, Blair |
Telephone: 604-807-8866 |
WOODWARD, Eric |
He was part of the internet industry at a young age, co-founding multiple successful companies. He sold his last company in 2007 and left the industry to refocus his efforts toward the local community, starting with the revitalization of Fort Langley. His commercial holdings in Fort Langley were transferred to a charitable non-profit, starting in 2018. Prior to council, he was the President of the Fort Langley Business Improvement Association, a Director of the Langley Memorial Hospital Foundation, and served on the Township of Langley's Economic Development Advisory Committee, and Heritage Advisory Committee. Eric believes Langley needs to evolve and find a better way forward. From the sad state of roads to failing permit timelines, and falling so far behind on recreation and urban parks, taxpayers deserve better. Telephone: 604-725-3810 |
COLEMAN, Rich |
Over the past 38 years of my involvement in this community I have been able to work successfully with all parties to get things done. This has helped to build numerous schools, the Langley Events Centre, four overpasses, several parks, housing units, the expansion of the Langley Memorial Hospital and the Aldergrove Kinsmen Community Centre to name a few. All of these projects were accomplished by working with Stake Holders to get things done. Working together we can continue to build an even greater Langley community, which will be an excellent example for all others. |
Councillors
Candidate names are listed in the order they will appear on election ballots.
GARDNER, Brit |
![]() I attended the now-closed County Line Elementary, Aldergrove Community Secondary, and the University of the Fraser Valley. I’ve had the pleasure of working in a variety of roles and fields; as the Chief of Staff at an Impact Investing fund in New York, in Communications and PR for teams and organizations, and currently, as a case manager Family Law firm in the Fraser Valley, while raising my 3 children. I will be a strong voice on council for protecting our ecosystems, climate action, real affordability, frontline services, public amenities, supporting transportation initiatives including community rail, and building complete, liveable, walkable communities for the next generation to enjoy. I live in Fort Langley with my 3 children, partner, and dog, Daisy. |
PILCHER, Sierra |
![]() As a public figure, Sierra brought attention to important community issues. She has been nominated for awards including the Loran Community Leadership, and CCPA Power of Youth Leadership awards. She created youth empowerment/mentorship programs, held seminars, volunteered, and organized charitable fundraisers and served on the Board of Directors for the Cloverdale Rodeo. Sierra’s multicultural background gives her a better understanding and appreciation for varied viewpoints, cultural values, and opinions. As your councillor, Sierra looks forward to bringing her skills and experience to foster real change in the community. Her varied experiences and diverse community networks will make her a strong voice on the Township of Langley council. |
WARD, Tony |
![]() My vision is to leave a legacy for future generations employing reasonable and sustainable solutions to municipal challenges. My main goals are to: Enhance current levels of service, stabilize tax rates, and sustainably manage infrastructure. I believe in maximizing walkability and accessibility in new urban design and sustaining and enhancing parks, trails, and natural areas. I strongly support small businesses and farms. With high inflation, interest rates rising at an alarming rate, house prices dropping, how can average citizens afford to make ends meet? Langley is a community of strong, independent, and intelligent voices. This is not time for Langley to embrace prearranged decision making on serious topics. |
ARNASON, Petrina |
Tel: 604-427-2993 Website: https://petrinaarnason.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/petrinaarnason2022 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petrina_arnason/ |
CHANG, Michael |
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PRATT, Michael |
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MORAES, Karen |
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CAMERON, Scott |
![]() Scott is the Head Professional at the Redwoods Golf Course. His primary focus is to plan, organize, and deliver successful events by bringing people together around common goals. Scott has organized tournaments for the Langley Memorial Hospital Foundation, the Township of Langley Firefighters Charitable Society, Wagner Hills Farm Society, the Gateway of Hope, and many other local charities. As someone who was raised in the Township of Langley and is raising his family in Walnut Grove, he strongly believes that people who grow up in the Township should be able to afford to build their lives and raise their families here as well. Scott currently serves on the Township of Langley Recreation, Culture, and Parks Committee as well as the Township of Langley Outdoor Sports Advisory Group. Scott also co-owns the Fletcher Cameron Golf Academy at Redwoods. |
TAKHAR, Navin |
![]() During my career, I have often taken time to advocate for my clients when they are having difficulties with the Township, working with city staff to help resolve their issues. Through this process, I have learned a lot about the inefficiencies which have led to higher housing prices. I value the diverse recreational and cultural offerings, from sports to music to hiking to riding, and want to help enhance these activities. With your vote, I wish to serve this community with the Elevate Langley team. |
WARTAK, Gerald |
A graduate of SFU, Gerald holds an Applied Science degree, and has used his process knowledge to assist his client-base in their brand strategy, market-analysis, business definition and development, and market execution. In addition to his corporate endeavors, Gerald has lived in Langley for over 9 years with his wife and 2 children and has been involved as a Langley Hockey coach for 6 years, a Langley box and field Lacrosse coach for over 5 years, and currently sits as a Director on the executive board for Langley Minor Lacrosse. |
MARTENS, Barb |
![]() Barb is a founding Board member of BC Women in Law Enforcement, a non-profit organization created to be a supportive community for policewomen. She is also the only two-time recipient of the BC Borstal Association awards: The Certificate of Merit for Community Crime Prevention for her work with homelessness and the broad scope of housing models, and the Community Crime Prevention Excellence Award for her work with the Vancouver hotel community. Barb is a graduate of Trinity Western and lives in Walnut Grove with her two kids. Telephone: 604-404-9151 |
RESPONDEK, Kam |
![]() Safety, crime prevention and city infrastructure including business participation are crucial items that need to be addressed in our rapidly expanding municipality. It is easy to say what needs to get done but what is far more important is how it is executed. Therefore, spending money strategically and efficiently is paramount. Council needs to make smart decisions as Langley has a ton of potential and for it to be realized we need a fresh, realistic and logical perspective and that is what I will contribute as a city councillor. |
GILL, Sukhman |
![]() I have completed my Associate in Applied Science (Agri-Business Ag Econ) and Bookkeeping Certificate and currently I’m completing my Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration at Kwantlen College, focusing on accounting. I am the farm and office coordinator for BKS Blueberry Farm Ltd. and I’m passionate about the realities of farming in a changing world. I’ll be bringing innovative solutions to the housing affordability challenges and to improve transit availability and the Township’s road network. My perspective on community and the connection between agriculture and a thriving economy in Langley will make me an excellent Councillor on Rich Coleman’s Council with Elevate Langley. |
RINDT, Rob |
In 2015, after studying craft distilling, he and his partner Rebekah Crowley started Roots & Wings Distillery. He grows as much as he can on-site to deliver a premium local craft product. During the process of starting the distillery, he witnessed the major challenges in the permitting process. This prompted his decision to run for council, to make things easier for small business owners. Rob is committed to preserving prime farmland, removing road blocks for small businesses, and fixing our roads and infrastructure. Rob lives with his partner Rebekah and three kids at the family farm. Telephone: 604-762-6061 |
MACDONALD, Cathy |
I have a BA from the University of Western Ontario and Executive education from Sauder School of Business. I am excited to work under the leadership of Rich Coleman. I admire his ability to deliver results and want to help expand on his previous accomplishments in our township. My husband and I have raised our two kids in Willoughby. My son 15 is a hockey player. My 13 year old daughter competitively dances. We are grateful for all the facilities, schools and businesses in our community. |
DINESEN, Stephen |
![]() Together with Analies, his wife and business partner, they own and operate a local small business—Bear Woods Supply. Stephen co-owns – Body Smart Health and Fitness (Gym + Massage, Physio, Chiro clinic) in North Langley. Prior, Stephen and his brother started, grew and sold BackCheck, (employment background checks). Through hard work, innovative uses of technology, and strong team building, Dinesen’s company grew to over 400 employees, including an office with a team of 200 in Port Kells. Stephen truly values his Langley roots. Motivated by a genuine love for humanity, Stephen has freely ministered to friends and strangers alike, exemplifying many of the core principles of his faith—compassion, generosity, hospitality and community. Stephen is 45 years old and father to four children ages 12 to 20. |
RICHTER, Kim |
These are:
With 20+ years’ experience on Council and as a Business Management professor, I have 6 priorities: Community, Preservation, Safety, Affordability, Ethics, and Accountability. These should be considered equally in all Council decisions. It has been a privilege to serve you as a Township Councillor. I respectfully ask again for your vote and your trust. For further information, please visit kimrichter.com. |
CHEEMA, AJ |
![]() AJ has a deep understanding of governance and policy as it has been a huge part of his life since he was a child. Prior to relocating to British Columbia in 1993, the Cheema family lived in Winnipeg where his father, Dr. Gulzar Cheema, was the first Punjabi elected as an MLA. AJ served as a Special Assistant to the Minister of Public Service and Procurement and has an extensive background in business development and operations. He worked as the Manager of India Operations for RCI Capital Group and as the Vice President of Corporate Development for San Group where he was responsible for Corporate, Government and Aboriginal Relations. AJ lives in Salmon River with his two young sons. Telephone: 604-374-1368 |
BAILLIE, Tim |
He has over 25 years of personal and professional experience with homelessness and people living in poverty. He has coached youth sports for more than 40 years and understands the need to create opportunities for inclusivity and activity for all. Tim was the co-chair the Community and Social Action Committee of the NWDLC, a body of over 50,000 union members, to help the unions understand the role unions can play in the community. Tim believes Langley needs to catch-up up growth, modernize the fire service, expand youth sports infrastructure and programming, and make real progress on homelessness. Telephone: 604-762-6061 |
TOWNSLEY, Teresa |
![]() The cost of living is rising and everyone is feeling the squeeze. I will ensure that every hard earned dollar is used in the best, most prudent and responsible way. We can’t keep raising taxes. I will plan for the future, not for the next election. I am a former Emergency Nurse and have made safety and service to my community a life mission. I have a proven track record successfully stewarding the Delta School District through critical change and financial crisis. I have served on Police Board, Tourism Langley, and am an agritourism entrepreneur and Co-Chair of the Langley Farmers Institute. As a farming advocate, I support our farmers, farm viability, and the environment we farm in. Please consider TOWNSLEY for TOWNSHIP. www.teresatownsley.ca |
FERGUSON, Steve |
![]() Steve began his professional career as a teacher, working in education the Delta school District. It was during this career that Steve developed his love of politics and decided to pursue a career in municipal government. In addition to being a Township of Langley Council member, Steve is also a representative of Metro Vancouver. Eager to serve in as many capacities as possible, Steve has served on numerous committees and boards. Steve believes that we need to mentor the next generation of leadership and support a great new team with good ideas and the commitment to get things done for our residents and taxpayers. Telephone: 604-807-0474 |
SUAREZ RUBIO, Carlos |
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POITRAS, Carey |
I firmly believe we can balance urban growth with thoughtful planning while supporting our rural areas and farmers. I want to support growth in sustainable ways. Farming is an integral part of our community, with unique challenges ahead, and we need to listen closely. I want to keep in the conversation the needs of youth and seniors; amenities and programs are needed and essential to provide access to them. I want to ensure diversity and inclusion are a part of the culture on Council. Our Township is a diverse community, and I am committed to finding common ground with all walks of life within our community and on Council. These are the highlights of why I want to be on your Council, and I am asking for your vote. |
DELORME, James |
![]() Delorme loves Langley and its strong sense of community. He has worked with the Kwantlen, Matsqui, Sumas and other First Nations in the area and believes he can be the bridge between the regional Indigenous people and local government, representing and advocating for First Nations while engaging in a collaborative spirit with all interested groups. |
DARNELL, Rebecca |
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JOEHL, Alex |
![]() His face is one that may seem familiar. You’ve likely seen him around town – likely at the hockey rink or perhaps the grocery store. And perhaps you’ve seen this name on almost every single election ballot in the Township of Langley since 2017. By now you know what Alex stands for. More of your freedoms, more of the time. He’ll push back against the politicians that spurred divisiveness in our communities merely for political gain. He hasn’t forgotten the caution tape on outdoor children’s playgrounds and bylaw officers bullying small businesses. He’ll keep taxes down by shrinking the bureaucracy and kyboshing white elephant spending projects; You should keep more of your hard-earned money. He wants to bring us a local, tailor-made police force that works for us. He’ll propose an electoral system that actually represents each region of the Township. www.facebook.com/ElectAlexJoehl |
VAN POPTA, Misty |
![]() Misty started her career in the pharmaceutical industry in the 1990’s as a front-line technician in a pharmacy. She then transitioned to the technology and pharmaceutical software side for 14 years. She has also been a small business owner, co-owning a bicycle shop in Fort Langley. Misty first ran for a seat on Township Council in 2011. She has been a community volunteer for a number of years, serving as a Director of the Fort Langley Business Improvement Association from 2010-2014. She wants to be that a new vote for real change, to be a part of the solution for so many important issues, from 208th Street to new housing action plans. Telephone: 604-534-6002 |
KUNST, Margaret |
![]() Born and raised in Langley and together with her husband of 34 years Margaret raised 4 children here. A small business owner in the agriculture sector for over 20 years, Margaret worked in Vancouver’s tourism industry and 10 years as operations director for the PuCKS Powerplay Foundation. As a volunteer for many years, continues to serve, helping new Canadians establish their lives in Langley. As councillor, she serves on the Heritage Advisory Committee, Tourism Langley and Langley Seniors Transportation Group. “As more people make Langley their home, good planning and vision are needed. Housing, public safety and planning for the needs of our community remains a priority” With a collaborative spirit and a common-sense perspective Margaret looks forward to making the important decisions to ensure residents enjoy an amazing quality of life in the Township of Langley. |
School Trustees
Candidate names are listed in the order they will appear on election ballots.
RAI, Sarb |
![]() Sarb has also watched her daughter experience bullying. An issue she is committed to finding a better resolution process for. She knows how important support is for kids facing challenges in their learning careers. She will be a voice for these children. Sarb Rai is running to help create mechanisms and policies that give kids a safe learning environment and provide them with access to programming that gives them the tools to be confident and successful learners. Telephone: 604-724-7883 |
LOCKHART, Gareth |
![]() His desire to run for the position of School Trustee was brought about, in part, because of having his daughter begin her own education journey in the Township. He believes having a member on the board with children currently in the Langley education system can provide a much-needed conduit for today’s parent and student. Gareth is running independently, recognizing the value that individual perspectives and experiences can bring to a successful team. He has a formal education in Local Government Leadership, and is currently working on a Masters Degree in Emergency Management. He has a decade-long record of successful collaboration among all levels of government for health and safety initiatives for First Responders and the public. |
PERREAULT, Suzanne |
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DICKINSON, Holly |
She has served on her Strata Council since 2015, six of those years as its President. As President she has established, maintained, and balanced a $1.1 million dollar budget while working hard to increase communications and proactively maintain the housing for her local community. Holly takes pride in making sure our schools are safe for all students. She has spent countless hours advocating for students and their mental health. She is currently the SOGI lead at her school, as well as a Safe Harbour teacher. Holly is committed to being an advocate for parents, teachers, and students, ensuring there is adequate support for all learners. Telephone: 778-401-8985 |
TURNER, Neil |
![]() Neil is an independent candidate. |
WAKELIN, Stacey |
www.staceywakelin.com or www.facebook.com/VOTESTACEYWAKELIN |
WILSON, Marnie |
In her current role as Vice Chair of the Langley Board of Education, Marnie has heard from students, parents, and staff regarding a range of issues such as safety in schools, employee engagement, burnout, the mental health crises, community consultation, and a need for additional resources in classrooms. Marnie’s experience makes her a perfect candidate to do the work needed to address those issues. Marnie Wilson is committed to looking for progressive solutions that don’t just fix an immediate problem but promote future opportunities. |
ROSS, Rod |
Growing District Needs New Schools
Earthquake PreparednessLangley Schools have appropriate emergency preparedness protocols in place and yet they have not been tested. I am concerned that we are ill prepared for the "Big One". My belief is that schools will be expected to support the broader community that it lives within. Therefore our level of preparedness needs to be elevated to go beyond our school walls. Cyber Security RiskWarren Buffet says, "Cyber is uncharted territory and it's going to get worse not better." I regularly ask for updates on our cyber-security status in our audit/finance committee. As the world struggles through this we need to ensure the safety of our computer information systems to protect sensitive personal information. W: rodross.ca E: rodross@shaw.ca M: 604-866-6895 |
FOX, Charlie |
Charlie spent his working in the Langley School District in both the elementary and secondary. He worked in a variety of schools within the Township which has given him a good working knowledge of the community, and how each sub-community differs in its needs and configurations and how this is reflected in the local schools. In 2005 Charlie ran for Township of Langley Council and served until October 2018. Charlie is an independent candidate with no ties to other candidates or electoral organization. Web-site – Foxforsd35.ca E-mail; charlie@thebcfoxes.ca |
NEUFELD, Joel |
Joel has been an advocate for schools keeping up with development. He understands the need for the school trustees and councillors to work together to address problems that growth has caused in Langley that impact families every day. Proper sidewalks, access to recreational programming and securing land for desperately needed new schools are issues Joel is committed to solving. Joel Neufeld is running to help provide solutions. To navigate steps to a vision for our district that is in line with our rapid growth. He will ensure there is a plan for schools the next 20 years to meet the needs of families that live in Langley and the ones that will be moving into the area. Telephone: 604-308-8372 |