Coquitlam councillor announces re-election bid

Coquitlam Coun. Teri Towner has announced she will seek re-election in the Oct. 17 municipal election as an independent.

“I care deeply about Coquitlam and remain as committed as ever to its future,” said Towner. “I believe real impact happens at the local level, and I want to keep putting my experience, energy and enthusiasm toward meaningful work that makes residents’ lives better.”

After 12 years on council, Towner says the next term will require experienced leadership as Coquitlam navigates continued growth, housing pressures, affordability, transportation, public safety, infrastructure needs and significant changes resulting from provincial housing legislation.

“These are complex issues without simple solutions,” said Towner. “Good local government means listening to people, understanding the full picture, considering long-term impacts and working collaboratively to find practical, common-sense solutions.”

Towner points to significant progress during her time on council, including thousands of new rental homes supported through the city’s Housing Affordability Strategy, investments in parks and recreation facilities, expanded public safety resources, environmental and climate initiatives, and partnerships that have delivered new community amenities.

She says there is much more to do, particularly to ensure Coquitlam remains livable and affordable for people at every stage of life.

“I want young people to see a future for themselves here, families to be able to put down roots, and seniors to be able to remain connected to the community they know and love,” said Towner. “As Coquitlam grows, we need to ensure we are building complete communities with the infrastructure, amenities and services people need.”

Towner currently chairs Coquitlam’s Economic Development Advisory Committee and Cultural Services Advisory Committee and serves on regional committees focused on issues including affordable housing and governance. She is active with Local Leaders for Mental Health advocating for mental health supports and focuses her volunteerism on seniors and environmental initiatives. A longtime runner and running leader, she also runs weekly as a guide runner for a blind athlete.