New platform pillar forbids parkland sell-offs, puts teeth in tree protection, and sets a generational goal: the Arbour Ribbon from the Fraser to the border

LANGLEY TOWNSHIP — Langley Strong today released Respect for Our Air, Trees & Streams, built on a plain principle: what took generations to grow can be lost in a single bad Council decision — and shouldn’t be.

The pillar commits the team to protect Township parkland and future park sites by not selling or mortgaging it to cover budget shortfalls; to update the tree protection bylaw with real retention standards and tighten enforcement against illegal removal and dumping; to protect streams, fish habitat and wildlife corridors in every planning decision; to create more natural parks across the Township; to partner with streamkeepers, schools and service clubs on planting and restoration; and to keep connecting the Arbour Ribbon, with the long-term goal of a trail from the Fraser River to the U.S. border.

“Selling parkland to plug a budget hole is a one-time fix with a forever price,” said council candidate Kim Richter. “I’ve scrutinized every Township budget for more than 25 years, and I can tell you: that trade never pays. Green space held for your grandchildren stays green.”

“Rules only matter if someone enforces them,” said council candidate Barb Martens. “Illegal tree removal and illegal dumping are not misunderstandings — they’re violations, and under Langley Strong they’ll be treated that way.”

“Natural parks cost less to build and keep up than manicured showpieces — and kids love them more,” said council candidate Lauren Chalus. “And the Arbour Ribbon is the kind of goal a community should build toward over the years: one trail, from the Fraser to the border.”

Respect for Our Air, Trees & Streams is one of ten pillars Langley Strong is releasing ahead of the October 17 municipal election. The full pillar is at LangleyStrong.ca/Platform.

-30-

About Langley Strong

Langley Strong is a team of Township of Langley residents running to restore respect at Township Hall: mayoral candidate Jay Lundgren and council candidates Lauren Chalus, Shumail Javed, Margaret Kunst, Barb Martens, Kim Richter, Teresa Townsley and Blair Whitmarsh, and with trustee candidates Candy Ashdown, Kathie Dalziel, Holly Dickinson, Charlie Fox, Neil Turner and Tony Ward. The full platform and tool is at LangleyStrong.ca/Platform.

Media Contact

Derek Robson
media@langleystrong.ca