Coquitlam has its first declared candidate for mayor in the 2018 civic election.
Massimo Mandarino announced Tuesday he will seek the city’s top job when voters go to the polls this fall on a platform of keeping taxes low and reducing spending.
“I’ve seen the changes and growth in Coquitlam, therefore, now more than ever before, we need someone that is best equipped to help manage this growth,” Mandarino said in his press release. “With my extensive business background and community involvement, I have the know-how to guide Coquitlam to new heights.”
If elected, Mandarino said he would work with developers to increase the “amount of rental and other affordable housing options in all new developments” in the city. He added that he will also push to relax bylaws that restrict rental suites in private residences.
This is not the first time Mandarino has sought office in Coquitlam. In 2014, he placed 14th out of 16 candidates for council, garnering 5,342 votes, or 4% of the total ballots cast. Three years earlier, he placed 15th out of 16 candidates for council.
The municipal election takes place Oct. 20.
@gmckennaTC
