Image: M. Vanden Bosch / PML / Chilliwack mayor Ken Popove (right, sunglasses), seen speaking with Housing Minister Ahmed Hussen at a groundbreaking in July, says he's eager to serve the residents of Chilliwack again as he seeks a second term as mayor.
Mayor Popove

Popove says he’s eager to serve Chilliwack for the next four years as he seeks 2nd term as mayor

Sep 6, 2022 | 4:44 PM

CHILLIWACK — Chilliwack mayor Ken Popove released a statement Tuesday (Sept. 6) in which he touted the successes of the past four years, like roads, housing for the most vulnerable, and trails and outdoor spaces, while touching on the staggering challenges the City faced over the past year.

Popove, who has spent 11 years on Chilliwack City Council, reiterated his commitment to the City.

“[I’m] eager to serve another term as the Mayor of Chilliwack,” the statement read. “There is no doubt that the past four years have been the most challenging any mayor of this great community has dealt with. The pandemic, fires, heat domes, atmospheric rivers and flooding posed some very challenging times…with the health and safety of all residents being at the forefront.”

Popove touted the addition of new leisure spaces, supportive housing developments, and improving relations with Indigenous people among the endeavours he sought to accomplish during his first term as mayor.

“Road upgrades, the addition of new parks, the housing developments for the lower income and vulnerable population, strengthening our indigenous relations, and addressing the opiate crisis are some of the major endeavors [I] committed to addressing and delivered on during [my] current term as mayor,” Popove said. “The revitalization of downtown Chilliwack speaks for itself as the busy sidewalks of people enjoy all the new stores and restaurants. The new pump track, which is the longest in North America, is also making headlines full of enthusiasm and excitement.

Popove cited his experience as president of the Downtown Business Improvement Association, his 30 years as a local business owner and 11 years on Chilliwack council as evidence that he has tried to move Chilliwack forward.

Popove says his passion to move forward collaboratively underscores his ambition for positive growth.

“Collectively as a team, we have advocated much improvement and advancements in the past four years, and I’m just getting started,” Popove said. “Progress takes time, and we still have a lot of work ahead, but the momentum is going strong! Nothing will ever be perfect, and challenges will always arise, but with steadfast resolve, I’ll be honored to serve our city with continued progress. I want to thank all the citizens of Chilliwack for your support. You have provided the inspiration to do a great job for you, and I look forward to the opportunity to serve you in these next four years ahead.”