Volunteering for numerous organizations and causes over the years has given Carla Robin the opportunity to meet many people in Langley. Through her volunteerism, Robin has developed a positive working rapport with many staff members at Township Hall.
“I’ve worn many hats and now it’s time for me to throw my hat into the political ring and be the voice of the community,” she said.
Robin is one of seven candidates on Mayor Rick Green’s Vote Langley Now slate.
“I’ve shown my commitment to quality and community over the years. I can provide thoughtful positive leadership, respecting the opinions and input of all others in making my decisions,” she said.
Robin was director of special events with the 2010 B.C. Summer Games in Langley. She is vice-chair of Tourism Langley and the Langley Horse Federation.
“I’ve been an effective team builder and can bring a wealth of business experience as well as common sense and street smarts to council.”
She has more than 30 years experience in land development, construction and property management, and spent 20 of those years in the horse industry and agriculture.
Robin said that as communities prosper through economic development, it’s time for Langley to take the lead in defining and reacting to the new South of the Fraser Economic Zone.
“We are positioned uniquely next door to Surrey, one of the fastest growing cities in Canada, and rather than look at the vast lands of Langley as just potential subdivision land, we should examine the real value as future food, farm, residential and other economic land uses,” she said.
Langley has the irreplaceable opportunity to expand agri-food production, develop agri-tourism and save agriculture lands, she said, adding that residents need to contribute their valuable input.
“There are innovative ideas, emerging models and best practices for preserving and farming Langley’s ALR lands that are not yet being considered or used strategically,” Robin said.
She said that current zoning bylaws need to be updated for strategically-contained development and preservation of agricultural and food land security.
As well, the Water Management Plan, Rural Plan, and transportation routes all need more public input.
“Langley is a truck and car community, with limited public transportation, that needs to be addressed in a realistic and timely manner,” Robin said.
Transportation alternatives such as the Interurban across the Fraser Valley should be explored, she said, and economic opportunities aggressively examined and pursued.
She added that the importance of sport tourism should be recognized.
“It’s innovative, needed and will generate growth and leadership opportunities for Langley residents,” she said.
A seniors advisory committee should be created to address the needs of a fast-growing seniors population in Langley.
Editor’s note — A story on Vote Langley Now candidate Glen Tomblin appears on page 15.