Image: Chilliwack Mayor Ken Popove. / Supplied by City of Chilliwack

By Fraser Valley Today Staff

Politics

Chilliwack Mayor Ken Popove among political voices speaking out against new B.C. legislation

May 29, 2025 | 10:31 AM

CHILLIWACK — The mayor of Chilliwack says he is disappointed by the provincial government’s decision to pass a pair of bills that will fast-track private and public infrastructure projects in British Columbia on Wednesday night (May 28) in Victoria.

“Another overreach by the province to take the voice away from municipalities,” Popove told 89.5 JR Country Morning host Glen Slingerland Thursday morning. “They’re taking away our voice, First Nations’ voice.”

Bill 14 is intended to speed up the development of renewable energy projects and transmission lines. Bill 15 fast-tracks public and private infrastructure projects. It passed by one vote, which was cast by Speaker Raj Chouhan.

Popove says the legislation removes local decision-makers from the process. He says the province has warned municipalities that they must comply. “You guys stay in Victoria and do your job there and leave me here in Chilliwack to do our job here,” said Popove. “We do a damn good job.”

Former British Columbia NDP minister Melanie Mark is also speaking out against the two bills. Mark is accusing Premier David Eby and his cabinet of “turning their backs” on First Nations, local governments and environmentalists.

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“Politics should not stand in the way of progressive policies. Trampling on Indigenous rights just ends up getting reversed in the highest courts — taxpayers will end up paying for this oversight,” Mark said in an issued statement.