Another lawyer is jumping into Port Moody’s political scene.
Dustin Chelen, who’s provided legal counsel to several British Columbia technology companies, said he’s running for a seat on city council in the Oct. 15 municipal election because he believes Port Moody “can be better.”
In a news release, Chelen added if he’s elected he’ll prioritize finding solutions to Port Moody’s traffic and parking problems, as well as protecting parks and supporting “smart development,” especially in the city’s downtown.
“I think a revitalized downtown will benefit all, with added shops and services, places to work, and gathering spaces for the community.”
Chelen’s been a member of the city’s economic development and tourism committees. He said he often found it frustrating some Port Moody’s politicians “just wanted to argue.”
He said, “We need city councillors who can listen to the community and work together.”
Chelen is the eighth candidate running for Port Moody council, including:
- Richard Biedka
- Johann Contreras
- Kyla Knowles
- Haven Lurbiecki
- Callan Morrison
- Amy Lubik
- Diana Dilworth
Lubik and Dilworth are incumbents while two other current councillors, Meghan Lahti and Steve Milani, are candidates for the mayor’s position that will be vacated by Rob Vagramov after he recently announced he won’t be seeking reelection for a second term.
The official nomination period for candidates opens on Tuesday (Aug. 30) and runs until Friday, Sept. 9.
The official campaign period begins on Saturday, Sept. 17.
As well, the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce has scheduled a series of all-candidates debates for local 2022 civic elections.
Port Moody mayor and council nominees will get the chance to speak to the issues that matter to them, and take questions from the public, at the Inlet Theatre on Sept. 28.
