We’ve Got Issues host Nancy Furness speaks with Port Moody City Council candidate Haven Lurbieki. Growing up, Haven spent a lot of time in Nature. She has a Master’s Degree in Resource and Environmental Management and works as a Senior Policy Analyst at the First Nation’s Health Authority. She currently sits on two City Committees. Haven’s top priorities are responsible growth (not over-development), park expansion, and rebuilding the local economy by bringing good-paying jobs to Port Moody. Much development is happening in Port Moody including Woodland Park and Coronation Park. The focus has been on building luxury condos. However, a recent housing report indicates that all housing options except luxury, are needed. Haven speaks in depth on housing options needed, shortfalls of some of the current development projects, and challenges brought about by amendments to the Official Community Plan. Ongoing developer-driven amendments to increase density do not respect community input and are confusing to developers. Haven’s platform around housing includes completing the new community plan and then implementing the plan to provide clear guidelines to developers. Haven feels there is a divide on Council with respect to a vision for the community. She hopes the next Council will be more focused on putting residents first and ensuring that developers contribute to the community. Haven sits on the Parks and Rec Commission and is a huge advocate for park expansion and enhancement. She feels park space is lagging behind population growth and plans to develop a Park Expansion Plan. She envisions neighbourhood parks, increased park opportunities for dog-owners, and more park-space in areas slated for high density. Urban tree canopy is critical to our well-being and to mitigating climate change. Haven supports implementation of an Urban Forestry Management Plan especially facing development pressures. Port Moody has lost a couple of big employers, so needs to bring back some good-paying industrial and commercial jobs, in addition to local services to build a diversified tax base. Haven would like to see businesses concentrated around Moody Centre sky-train station. Haven says respect, collaboration and decorum are critical for elected representatives to do their job. She supports the implementation of a Provincial integrity commissioner in cases where issues cannot be resolved by Council.