A new voice is emerging in Coquitlam civic affairs that could speak to the next city council.
This spring, representatives from the city's various residents associations have been meeting to organize a coalition in an attempt to lobby the council that will be elected on Nov. 15.
Tom Cox of the Westwood Plateau Community Association told The Tri-City News the groups want to raise concerns on a regular basis before council in the new year.
"We want to show we can work together and be co-operative on similar issues," Cox said.
Years ago, the city had an advisory committee for neighbourhood associations so their representatives could talk about topics relevant in their jurisdictions. When the committee structure changed, the reps met four times a year with city staff.
But those meetings have now ended. "There's been no cohesion since then," Cox said.
Ben Craig, president of the Oakdale Neighbourhood Association, said there has been concern in his community that city council and staff are not consulting with the public.
"I welcome Tom's efforts and look forward to bringing residents of our respective communities back into the decision-making process at city hall," Craig said.
