Candidates running for the office of mayor and councillor seats were invited to 91原创 Senior Resources Society (LSRS) on Wednesday afternoon ahead of elections in 91原创 City.

All 16 candidates were present to share their thoughts with a key demographic 鈥� seniors, who asked questions on crime, housing, SkyTrain expansion, and more.

The event started with a two-minute introduction, and almost all candidates talked about their connections with the community, their professional backgrounds, and how it was for them to raise their families here. Many shared their election agendas in their individual speeches.

Hosted by LSRS in partnership with 91原创 Seniors in Action, the meeting used a format that included candidates spending time with a group of about five people at a time in a round-table-like setting.

Each group had the opportunity to interact with two candidates at a time.

There were about eight groups, and candidates switched tables after spending about five minutes at each station. Many questions were centered around SkyTrain expansion, safety, road accessibility, and the rising cost of living.

Incumbent councillor Nathan Pachal, who is running for mayor, said if elected, he would focus on increasing affordable housing and reducing homelessness.

Incumbent mayor Val van den Broek said her experience as a corrections officer would help her improve public safety in the community. Councillor and candidate Paul Albrecht spoke about his commitment to providing housing options and ensuring adequate staffing ahead of SkyTrain expansions.

Running for a seat on the council, Shelley Coburn wants to work towards 鈥渂etter representation of people living in 91原创.鈥�

Gurjit Dhillon promised more bike lanes and community gardens. Affordability, homelessness, an expanding transit infrastructure, and a 鈥済rowing population,鈥� were top issues for Jeff Jacobs.

鈥淥ur city needs someone that genuinely listens, works with the public, staff and council, as well as the provincial and federal government,鈥� he said.

Running for re-election for 91原创 City council, Teri James said she wants to address 鈥渕ore challenging problems鈥� of homelessness, increased drug overdoses, and increased crime.

Delaney Mack鈥檚 concerns revolved around affordability, safety, and development.

鈥淲e need development and growth that鈥檚 conscious of businesses and community needs,鈥� she said.

Incumbent councillor Gayle Martin also expressed similar concerns and added that she wants to ensure 鈥渆xceptional value鈥� to the public鈥檚 tax dollars.

Cherise Okeymow promised her commitment to youth initiatives and 鈥渟trong鈥� advocacy for the transit system.

Public safety is a priority for Mike Solyom, who added that he wants to attract more businesses to the downtown core.

David Stingl addressed the seniors group by promising more facilities and reduced crime rates.

Incumbent councillor Rosemary Wallace, who is seeking re-election, wants to make 91原创 an inclusive, welcoming, and equitable place to live, work and recreate.

Like most candidates, Leith White, too, brought up the issue of homelessness.

鈥淚 want a safe community and relevant social supports,鈥� the candidate said.

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READ MORE: Election 2022

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