A former Green Party candidate with deep roots in Port Coquitlam is throwing his hat in the ring for city council.
Erik Minty is running to promote "deeper more transparent public engagement" and to transition the city to a "complete community," according to his municipal candidacy release.
He notes he's chosen the phrase "Livable City - Lovable City" to reflect his "core values and priorities," which can be found on his campaign website.
"The concerns facing Port Coquitlam residents are diverse, and the solutions are complex, but achievable," stated Minty, a PoCo resident of 25 years.
"Neighbourhood safety and security, parking and traffic congestion, construction permit bottlenecks, affordable living, and better services for dog owners are among the concerns he has heard from people."
Minty is the first local politician to announce is candidacy for the Port Coquitlam civic election.
Minty is a startup founder providing assistive technology to professionals working with autistic children, and explains he has background as a computer engineer, project manager and consultant.
His community service includes coaching and refereeing youth soccer for many years, serving on the board of PoCo Euro-Rite Soccer and coaching minor hockey.
He currently serves on his local strata council and offers mentoring and leadership as an organizer with two local non-profits: West Coast Climate Action Network and Force of Nature.
Minty was also the BC Greens candidate for Port Coquitlam's riding in the 2020 provincial election.
Calling himself a "sustainability advocate," he claims to have witnessed "how cities throughout the world are taking transformative approaches to solve municipal challenges."
In his release, Minty stated he intends to host "Listening Post" events throughout the summer, to hear from residents about their priorities and concerns.
He is currently in negotiation with the city to determine an approved use of public space.
Civic elections in B.C., including Port Coquitlam, will take place Oct. 15, 2022.
