Blog

Water damage

When his phone rang early October 19th David Fiteni knew he would need his raincoat and tools. As Lynn Valley was hit with record-breaking rain, the insurance broker was stepping up to help friends and clients fend off their losses.

Local expertise

There were a lot of lessons learned in Lynn Valley from the Kilmer Creek flood of November 2014. The district took the initiative to daylight and improve drainages. Residents armed themselves with supplies and experience and some insurance companies declared the neighbourhood a no-go zone withholding coverage. 

 

Central Agencies David Fiteni was in the heart of the water 10 years later, with his own home just blocks from this year’s Fromme flooding. 

“I live literally across the street here but that’s the advantage of going with a local insurance broker, not a call centre,” he said a few days later. “Whether it’s friends or clients or clients who became friends, I am going to answer the phone. It’s most likely their first flood but I know what they need to do in the moment and what resources may be available to help them.”

While he admits this level of service isn’t every local broker, the knowledge and understanding of choosing local offers important insight and understanding of the community being insured. Fiteni has even found himself on Vancouver Island on the ground helping clients through the post-incident insurance work. 

“Call me. I will tell you what to do,” he said. 

As new homeowners move to Lynn Valley or residents renewing their policies, they continue to run into lingering issues from the 2014 floods. Most likely, just a handful of companies dealt with a substantial number of claims in the neighbourhood, explained Fiteni. This negatively impacts their ability to offer full coverage. 

“There are postal codes in Lynn Valley that some companies won’t provide flood coverage for,” he said. “That’s the downside of dealing with companies that are too big to know the ins and outs of local areas. They look at a map and claims data. There are other companies that were not severely impacted and still provide coverage. We offer Lynn Valley a variety of options to protect homes today and to ensure broad coverage for the future.”

New coverage

flood waters recede on Fromme Road

courtesy of Jordan Back

Back in 2014 many homes had no flood coverage at all. It previously wasn’t offered. The catastrophic floods in Calgary in 2013 began the federal government’s review of insurance companies and their policies. Simplifying the situation, it was noted that families with basements were typically covered by insurance – claims were successful as sewer backup – while those built on slab were not, explained Fiteni. In the years following insurance companies began to roll out overland flood coverage. In 2024 the federal government is in talks with insurance providers for a federal flood insurance program that would offer coverage to homes not able to get flood coverage from traditional providers, like parts of the Fraser Valley. 

As new insurance products have hit the market not all coverage is equal.

“It can be really hard to compare policies,” said Rachel Robertson, an insurance broker at Central Agencies Lynn Valley office. “More companies are offering standard water policies but there are some parts you need to have specifically endorsed. They all do it a bit differently, whether they’re doing through backup and overland and groundwater kind of all in one package, or if they’re doing them all separately. But I would say that we are pretty fortunate, and 95% of the time, we have at least one company that’s able to offer full water coverage.”

The lingo 

Some terms to become familiar with when considering your home policy.

  • Sewer back-up: Covers damage caused by a sewer backing up or overflowing 
  • Groundwater seepage: Covers damage caused by groundwater seeping in through basement windows, doors, or floors 
  • (Overland)Flood: Covers damage caused by water entering the property from a body of water overflowing 
  • Above-ground water: Covers damage caused by water seepage through the roof or walls 
  • Water service and sewer line breakage: Covers certain repair costs if the water service or sewer line breaks or malfunctions 
  • Seepage: When water slowly flows or passes through fine pores or an opening 
  • Water escape: When water flows out of the pipes in an unintended way, such as a burst pipe

What to expect

With the differences in wordings and policies, a broker can be essential to getting the coverage you need. 

“We ask a lot of questions to understand our clients,” said Fiteni. “We want to know if you have bikes that need coverage, if your property is vulnerable to water, to understand your financial position and how we can help balance your priorities and risks.”

“We quote based on your house needs and find the right product,” adds Robertson. “We don’t just offer one and hope it kind of works.”

It’s a conversation that should be ongoing. Robertson explains Central Agencies reviews customer policies at renewal time to see if there are new exclusions. 

“I don’t want to tell someone that they no longer have coverage at renewal because their provider has changed policies. I will have alternative solutions ready to go. Homeowners must read their policies when they are renewed if it’s an automatic payment. Coverage and policies are changing and you might not have the coverage today that you think you bought a few years ago. You were informed with updated wordings but you might not have read them.”

Like mortgage brokers, insurance brokers are worth a conversation at renewal time. Their consultations are complimentary with their goal to find you the best coverage for your needs. 

“The DNV (District of North Vancouver) has done a lot – we had more than double the rain of 2014 and fewer impacts. They responded to Fromme and it was like turning off a tap,” said Fiteni. “But we are lucky it was during the day and people were ready to help. Water is by far the biggest insurance issue in Lynn Valley and residents need to be prepared.”

David Fiteni and Rachel Roberston and their expertise can be found at Central Agencies Lynn Valley, 3171 Mountain Highway or at  778-729-0404.

Looking for more?

There’s always something fun and exciting happening in Lynn Valley. Check out our Community Events Calendar or learn more about Local Activities, Mountain Biking or Hiking and Walking Trails.

November 5, 2024 in Blog, Eco-Awareness & The Great Outdoors, Merchant Mentions Comments (0)

A.O.K. – Good Deeds, Good Eats Draw

LynnValleyLife and Romers are celebrating the quiet good in our neighbourhood with a monthly draw honouring those who give their time and energy to the community & neighbours. Did someone rake your leaves? Did a coach or teacher go above and beyond? Does someone pick up your medications when you are sick? 

We want to honour the small Acts Of Kindness that make our community stronger. These could be a one-off (did someone return your keys?) or regular (help mow your lawn?). Enter the details below to have your nominee’s good deed rewarded with some good eats with a $100 Romer’s gift card. 

Looking for more?

There’s always something fun and exciting happening in Lynn Valley. Check out our Community Events Calendar or learn more about Local Activities, Mountain Biking or Hiking and Walking Trails.

November 5, 2024 in Blog, Neighbourhood News Comments (0)

New option for yoga classes

A new Lynn Valley fitness class melds yoga with pilates and the encouraging atmosphere of small classes. Ria Sisodraker of Vivafit Studios is hosting weekly sessions at the Mollie Nye House.

Find your own pace

Argyle grad Ria Sisodraker is bringing her yoga studio to central Lynn Valley with weekly sessions in a warm inclusive class. 

“I think yoga isn’t a one-size-fits-all thing,” she said. “When I’m teaching the yoga portion of the class, I like to debunk yoga myths during class.

“People have said, ‘I haven’t done yoga in 10 years’ or ‘I’m not flexible.’ Well, that’s not a problem – that’s totally fine. Yoga was initially made by a man, for men. So a lot of the traditional yoga poses don’t work with women’s wider hips. We talk about things like that and try to make the yoga poses work for you and not the other way around.”

Keeping classes small, with a maximum of 15 people, Sisodraker aims to create a space that is relaxing and energizing while allowing her to offer one-on-one attention.

“I put Christmas lights around the perimeter of the room so the light is soft and I play music to get energy going – mostly 80s and 90s music but it’s not overwhelming so my voice can offer guidance.”

Stretching herself

Building on her experience working the front desk and teaching at a hot yoga studio, Sisodraker created a program based on what she saw were the most wanted classes. 

“When you enter a chain studio it’s hard to understand what you’re getting into. It’s hard to go in because there are unknown customs the first time people go in and it’s just like they’re stepping into unknown territory,” she said. 

The small classes help Sisodraker connect with students and support their classes from where they are starting out. 

“It’s yoga mixed with Pilates-inspired exercises – and I thought, let me reintroduce this in a way that people can enjoy the stretch, stillness of yoga mixed with a little bit more of a workout.”

Sisodraker wants fitness to be a realistic goal that becomes a part of her students’ lifestyle. Her goal is for them to have small consistent successes rather than be all in and burn out or lose interest. 

“Find your own pace, is my little motto,” she said. “So go with the music. Go at your own pace. Go with the time we have together to work.”

The weekly classes have both men and women from their 20s to their 60s. The exercises add a pilates twist to traditional yoga. 

“I like to say it’s ‘pilate-inspired.’ I like to blend it with yoga. So taking, say, a boat pose, and then pulsing the arms in it, maybe you lift a leg, maybe you lift another leg, maybe you straighten the legs, and like pilates, we try to do a core focus. So you focus on that at the beginning of class, understanding what core activation is, understanding what the core is, and then learning how to fire it up. It’s slow, controlled, movements.”

In a further effort to make her classes accessible and inclusive, Sisodraker uses props and provides three to five variations to bridge the ability and experience gaps. 

“I want to know where you are at in each class. Do you have an injury? Are there movements that are painful that I can adapt in the class and provide general tips to the class that will help a student take care of themself? 

 

Sisodraker will be hosting Vivafit Studio classes at Mollie Nye House until mid-December on Wednesdays from 6-7 pm with classes beginning again for the winter and spring. 

Looking for more?

There’s always something fun and exciting happening in Lynn Valley. Check out our Community Events Calendar or learn more about Local Activities, Mountain Biking or Hiking and Walking Trails.

November 5, 2024 in Blog, Notable Neighbours Comments (0)

Woodburning fireplaces need registration soon

Starting next year residents must register their wood-burning appliances – fireplaces, wood stoves, etc.,  – with Metro Vancouver or face fines up to $500. While it’s not a ban on fireplaces or wood stoves it is part of the plan to reduce emissions and to raise the profile of best burning practices. 

Fires burning

Particulate matter sources

A September 2025 deadline, a bylaw passed in 2020, from Metro Vancouver for homeowners to voluntarily register their wood-burning appliances. The phased-in bylaw has the goal of reducing particulate matter from residential wood smoke. 

“Indoor residential wood burning is responsible for more than a quarter of the harmful fine particle emissions in the region – more than any other source. Since heating generally occurs in the fall and winter, wood smoke can contribute even more to the fine particles i​​n the air we breathe during those times of the year,” says Metro Vancouver.

The bylaw also includes a ban on a seasonal ban from May 15 – September 15. The goal is to reduce residential contributions to the already higher summertime ground-level ozone levels and increased particulate matter from wildfire smoke.

Bylaw 1303

The current requirements of the bylaw are as follows: 

  1. Follow Best Burning Practices
    • Best burning practices include:
      • ​​Use only clean, seasoned wood
      • ​ Don’t let your fire smoulder
      •  Don’t burn garbage, plastic, or treated wood
      • Inspect and maintain your device
      •  ​Burn small and ​hot fires
  2. Seasonal Prohibition
    • A ban on using residential indoor wood-burning devices is in effect annually from May 15 to September 15, with some exceptions.
  3. Declaration Requirements
  4. Registration Requirements ​
    • Residents within Metro Vancouver’s Urban Containment Boundary must register their devices with Metro Vancouver.
    • To qualify for registration, devices must meet emissions standards.
  5. Operational Restrictions
    • From September 2025, unregistered devices will be prohibited from operation except during emergencies or if the device is the sole source of heat.​

Incentives

Residents have an opportunity to receive a rebate for switching to a more environmentally friendly device. If residents forego their old uncertified wood-burning device (fireplace, wood stove, furnace) for a new low-emission device (heat pump, electric insert, certified wood-burning device, etc.), through Metro Vancouver’s Community Wood Smoke Reduction Program.​​​​

This webpage provides a simplified summary of sections of the bylaw. If you are considering the switch the following appliances may be eligible for a rebate. 

  • A free-standing uncertified wood stove.
  • An uncertified fireplace insert, or tube-type heat exchanger with a face plate and door (like the ‘Free Heat Machine’ or ‘Welenco’) that is currently installed in an open hearth fireplace.
  • An open-hearth fireplace.
  • An uncertified “wood furnace” (ducted, forced air, home heating appliance) – may only be replaced by an EPA-certified wood furnace or pellet furnace or heat pump.
  • A “homemade” or “barrel” stove.
  • A wood-burning cook stove.

Looking for more?

There’s always something fun and exciting happening in Lynn Valley. Check out our Community Events Calendar or learn more about Local Activities, Mountain Biking or Hiking and Walking Trails.

November 5, 2024 in Blog Comments (0)

New program showcases versatility of cargo bikes

You may need a helmet the next time you pick up your reservation from the Lynn Valley library. Last month a new free cargo bike share with EVO and partners the DNV and CNV found a home in the North Vancouver District Library and two multi-family developments. 

Get rolling

Last year councillor Jordan Back put a motion forward to the District Council to explore the idea of a ‘bike library’ inspired by Lynn Valley’s Duncan Wilcox’s passion for active transportation.

“Duncan is an e-bike enthusiast who saw financial barriers to families with this type of transportation,” said Back at the time. “There isn’t an opportunity to try these types of bikes out.”

Eighteen or so months later, with support from BC Hydro, the CNV, the DNV and LandlordBC and a partnership with BCAA and the District of North Vancouver Libraries, you can borrow a cargo E-bike at the Lynn Valley branch.

“Interest in E-cargo bikes is very popular right now,” said Leanne Buhler, head of Evolve Bike and Scooter Share with BCAA. “It’s very different from e-bike or e-scooter share where the rides are very short and there could be hundreds of devices in a city. It complements other forms of mobility in the neighbourhood. In Lynn Valley, there is EVO and public transit and people can walk. E-Cargo bikes are another option that people can try. It fits a different user and solves a different transportation challenge.”

Back in 2023 Back was optimistic there would be interest and support to get the wheels turning on this project.

“It’s not a huge investment and there are some other revenue streams and grants,” he said. 

So much so, the pilot program – slated to run until the end of October before returning March-October 2025 – is free for users. 

“Usually bike share programs get quite quiet over the winter and we decided to pull the bikes in for winter to keep them in good condition but I think if we hear feedback that they want to ride them year round we would be open to consider it,” said Buhler.

Test drive ride

The E-cargo and longtail bikes can be found at Lynn Valley, Parkgate and Capilano NVDPL branches at the CNV Library. In an intriguing twist brought on by the partnership with LandlordBC, they can also be found in two multi-family rental buildings in the CNV for those residents. 

Leanne Buhler

Cargo bikes have long been popular in Europe for their versatility and ease of use for families and small businesses – often replacing a vehicle for community trips. The advancement in electric bike technology has made them a viable option for North Vancouver. 

“E-cargo bikes can hold a bunch of cargo – both styles we have can hold up to 110 kilograms of cargo or passengers or a combination of both,” said Buhler. “It enables people to use a bike to do their grocery shopping, run errands, take sports equipment with them, and bring their family members with them on bike rides. It expands the type of use that a person can use a bike for.”

Available for free as part of the pilot program, riders can borrow a long-tail with an extended portion on the back for riders or cargo, and box bikes which have a large cargo box in the front or back of the bike. The hope is that trying out the bikes will make them a less intimidating option for daily transportation and be an option for residents who may have previously only considered a car. 

“People are surprised that they are more comfortable and more stable than they expected,” said Buhler. “They are quite a bit larger and longer than a standard bicycle and I think it can look intimidating but we chose models that are built for new riders and are simpler for the users.”

Booking is available via the app and includes just about everything you would need for an active transportation adventure including helmets, cargo bags, locks and even chargers if you will be doing a lot of riding. .   

“Folks can book them up to 30 days in advance,” she explained. “They are being booked up quite a bit and users may have to look in the EVO  app to see what bikes are available and where and they may need to travel to another location to try the bike they are interested in. We include everything you would need to charge the bike, use the cargo capacity and lock it up safely.  We even have a variety of children’s helmets if you will be taking young passengers.”

The biggest asterisk to the free program is that riders must return the bikes before the libraries close for the evening to ensure the bikes are secure overnight. Substantial locks are provided for trip security and other anti-theft precautions have been taken. 

Theft and vandalism are a really rare occurrence. There are GPS trackers on each of the bikes and all of the bikes must be returned to the libraries overnight for safe storage. 

Learn more about the program here. 

Looking for more?

There’s always something fun and exciting happening in Lynn Valley. Check out our Community Events Calendar or learn more about Local Activities, Mountain Biking or Hiking and Walking Trails.

October 4, 2024 in Blog, Eco-Awareness & The Great Outdoors Comments (0)

Meet the local candidates

With the provincial election taking place on Oct. 19th now is the time to get to know the candidates, ask tough questions and engage in debate to find the best representative for our community. LynnValleyLife approached the four candidates stepping up to serve North Vancouver – Seymour and asked them to introduce themselves and discuss a few of the issues. 

Meet the candidates:

Mitchell Baker, Independent, https://mitchellbaker.ca/

I have been a resident of this riding for 55 years and live on the Seymour River. I am married with two teenage daughters. For the past 33 years, I have run a small business focused on single-family residential and commercial construction. Growing up, I spent my time hiking, biking, swimming, skiing, and enjoying outdoor recreation on the North Shore mountains. I have a deep passion for this community. I’ve contributed to its development physically, and I believe I can bring valuable political insights forward.

Sam Chandola, BC Conservative, https://www.samchandola.ca/

My name is Sam Chandola and I am your BC Conservatives candidate for North Vancouver – Seymour. I am a father, husband, and tech entrepreneur. My friends would describe me as a guy who gets stuff done. My daily routine involves connecting with communities and mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs in BC. I have 5 core values which act as my guiding principles for all decisions I look to make – Individual Liberty, Common Sense, Freedom of Speech, Fiscal
Responsibility, and Integrity and Honesty. Lynn Valley is where I discovered my love for hiking and odds are Leo (my Aussie
Collie) and I crossed paths with many of you on the trails. My family and I made the North Shore our home 5 years ago and these days I’m a regular at the Karen Magnussen Community Centre where my 1 year old daughter splashes around pretending to swim.

Susie Chant, NDP, https://www.susiechant.ca/

I have lived in Lynn Valley since 1988. I raised my children here; it’s our home. It has been an honour to serve as the MLA for North Vancouver-Seymour over the past four years. I hope to earn the trust of my neighbours to serve a second term as the representative and an advocate for our community.

Subhadarshi Tripathy, Green

Did not respond

The issues

Each candidate was given the same questions and equal opportunity to express themselves.

If you are elected how will you elevate your constituents’ needs within your party and when in contradiction to party priorities?

BAKER: As an independent candidate, I’m not bound by party lines. The needs of my constituents are always my priority, and I don’t need to ask for permission or fear party retribution if I disagree with a policy that’s being voted on in the best interests of the constituents and region.

CHANDOLA: I am an open-minded, fiscally conservative person who relates to the common sense policies of the BC Conservatives to solve some of the biggest challenges impacting our province – our spiralling economy, high provincial debt, unaffordable housing, and broken healthcare.

As with any big tent party, there will always be different viewpoints and there will certainly be times when constituency priorities may differ from party priorities. The 5 guiding principles I outlined in a previous question will always define how I vote – and sometimes, that may mean voting against my own party to prioritise the needs of my most important stakeholders – my constituents. I have made this clear to the Conservative Party when I came onboard and they made it clear that they would expect nothing less of me and every other candidate. They added “You don’t have to pass an ideological test to join the Conservative Party. You simply have to believe in Common Sense solutions to the biggest problems facing the province.”

CHANT: I understand the challenges that people in our community are facing, and you can count on me to fight for us, and our priorities, at the Legislative Assembly. Those that know me and my work know that I get things done and I persevere.

I am running with the BC NDP because David Eby and the BC NDP reflect my personal values and the priorities of our community. We’re going to increase housing accessibility, reduce everyday costs for people, and continue to hire more doctors, nurses, and health care professionals.

cof

What is the issue you think most affects Lynn Valley? What is your plan to deal with it?

BAKER: As every North Shore resident knows, traffic congestion at the Ironworkers Memorial  Bridge is a major issue. No additional lanes have been added since 1960, yet the population in areas serviced by the bridge—Nanaimo (ferry), the Sunshine Coast,  Bowen Island, Squamish, Whistler, and the three North Shore communities—has more than tripled. The government spent a quarter of a billion dollars adjusting traffic flow at the north end of the bridge, adding lights and changing lanes, but this did nothing to address the root issue: the limited number of lanes crossing the inlet.

CHANDOLA: While residents of Lynn Valley are struggling with the BC NDP’s failures in housing affordability, healthcare and more, traffic on our streets is probably the one that affects almost every resident, daily.

The brutal traffic jams heading to Highway 1 East from Mountain Highway southbound, often backs up all the way up Arborlynn Drive and Mountain Highway. With just 1 lane to the on-ramp, we are forced into lane merges that clog up even traffic headed within North Vancouver, making the area a pain to navigate daily.

Our plan is to invest heavily in infrastructure upgrades, where we will deliver $1 billion in provincial funding to local governments each year for a decade to invest in local infrastructure such as introducing dedicated lanes, increasing on-ramps, and ensuring better traffic management.

CHANT: There are many issues that affect our communities on the North Shore, but the one that I believe hits home the most is housing; it is just too expensive. It is so stressful for people who are renting or looking to buy their first home, but it’s also stressful for those who are homeowners, because it’s obvious how the next generation is struggling.

We have been focused not just on creating new homes but bringing existing homes back to the market through restrictions on short-term rentals and taking on speculators. John Rustad has pledged to undo all of this work and we just can’t afford that.

What is your view on traffic and transportation? Lynn Valley (and the North Shore as a whole) is held hostage by a provincial highway. No other community grinds to a halt (almost daily) with residents unable to go about their lives within the community because of traffic going through it (ex. Richmond locals can still move about when there is a problem with the tunnel. Similarly, it is unreasonable for a Seaspan worker to travel 150 minutes by transit from Langley when it’s 60 minutes by car.) Daily trip numbers over the Second Narrows exceed those of the Port Mann prior to its rebuild.

BAKER: I will push for a model that replaces or twins the bridge. This could be achieved through a design-build-operate-fund model, similar to what was used for Highway  99 (Sea-to-Sky) and the Port Mann Bridge. Additionally, a rapid transit solution from  Phibbs Exchange connecting to the existing SkyTrain system is essential. Long-term plans may extend beyond these solutions, but the idea that all of this could happen from Park Royal to Metrotown is unrealistic—it would likely exceed $40 billion and take 30+ years to materialize. We need immediate solutions for the current problems, not empty promises of grandeur. 

CHANDOLA: I couldn’t agree more! It is unacceptable that our community has to live with gridlocked traffic on a daily basis. This is just one more instance where the BC NDP government has neglected infrastructure upgrades, one that costs precious hours daily from our lives.

For the East-West traffic corridor which largely serves local traffic within North Vancouver, I will work closely with the DNV and advocate with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI) to create more dedicated lanes for local traffic. This will include advocating for more consultation with our communities before pushing through changes such as the plan to remove a dedicated lane on eastbound traffic on Main Street – which has currently been deferred to until after the election.

For the North-South traffic corridor, we need a viable long-term solution, and that starts with finding funding for upgrading our bridge infrastructure. In the last 7 years, our government has grown by 31%, compared to 3.9% in the 7 years prior to that. We need to trim down on the waste and bureaucracy, and instead look to invest those funds in our communities’ much-needed infrastructure upgrades.

CHANT: Those of us who live on the North Shore know the frustration that congestion causes. Our communities on the North Shore are growing, and our infrastructure needs to grow with them. In early October, I was proud to announce that our BC NDP government, if elected, will bring a rapid transit line to the North Shore, from Park Royal to Metrotown – starting with Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), but also moving forward with a future expansion of rapid transit to light rail or SkyTrain, in consultation with the Mayors’ Council, communities, and First Nations.

Rapid Transit will provide more options to get around the North Shore, quickly. It will ease congestion, meaning less time stuck in traffic, and more time living.

How will you work with the DNV on housing affordability?

BAKER: The issue of housing affordability is multifaceted. The cost of housing has been significantly impacted by changes in building codes, slower processes at the municipal level and demands on the construction industry. The government’s drive to claim the title of the “greenest region in North America” has raised construction costs dramatically. While I agree with reducing energy consumption and building in an environmentally conscious manner, we’ve surpassed the point of net benefit. 

Another key factor is the cost of land. With 94% of the land in BC owned by the province as  Crown land, 1% federally owned, and 5% privately owned (half of which is in the  Agricultural Land Reserve), we, the citizens, live and work on just 2.5% of the total land area. That leaves us with 0.98 acres per capita. Since 2000, BC’s population has grown by 

35%, shrinking the per capita land availability from 1.34 acres to where we are now. The math dictates that land costs had to rise to meet demand. If the available land doesn’t increase as the population grows, prices will continue to soar. This is a mathematical issue.  Ontario, with twice the amount of private land per capita, has lower overall land prices than  BC. Newfoundland, with 5.7 acres per capita, is the most affordable place to live in  Canada. 

In conclusion, both the availability of land and the building code requirements imposed by provincial and municipal governments are driving up housing costs. I propose making more land available and reviewing some of the recent building code changes that have significantly increased construction cost and providing strong encouragement to all municipalities to work to a timeline for approvals and outcomes that solves the housing issue and does not exacerbate it.

CHANDOLA: Housing affordability is a huge problem that affects youth, young families, seniors and our entire community. While we need to build more housing, what we do not need is a top-down approach of imposing unrealistic zoning requirements on cities such as the DNV that were already over-performing their housing targets. We need to focus on planned development that prioritizes infrastructure along with housing.

Our Get BC Building plan actually invests in infrastructure and housing as a comprehensive plan to make sure that newly built homes can continue to access good services, schools, roads and more. Further, we will exempt the DNV and other municipalities that meet their housing targets from the requirements of Bill 44, which has made it impossible for cities to negotiate with developers to get infrastructure, amenities and other services built with housing projects.

CHANT: We have a plan in place to create 300,000 homes across British Columbia – David Eby’s Housing Action Plan. It removes the red tape that prevents the construction of new, small-scale homes like duplexes and triplexes.

John Rustad was part of a government that ignored the growing housing crisis, as prices spiralled out of reach. He’s promised to axe our Housing Action Plan, cancelling these 300,000 homes before they’re even built. He has a 20-year record of defending the status quo on housing. Now isn’t the time to pull back on housing – we need to push forward.

What is your plan/party’s plan for helping schools and infrastructure keep up with growth?

BAKER: I believe the government is too large. If I were starting a project and wanted it done efficiently and cost-effectively, I wouldn’t rely on the government to get it done. An efficiency model for infrastructure, education, and healthcare should be a priority.  Government’s role should be to collect taxes and spend them in the most efficient way possible. However, that hasn’t been the case in the past, and it won’t improve unless things change. Government contracts should not be the most lucrative opportunities for private companies. Many of the contracts we see executed today cost two to three times their original estimates. This lack of fiscal responsibility affects schools, infrastructure, and healthcare advancements. It needs to change. 

CHANDOLA: Kids attending classes in portable classrooms, overcrowded classes, creaking infrastructure – our people deserve better, our children deserve better.

The BC Conservatives will conduct a rigorous review and make the necessary investments to ensure that our children and residents have access to essential services and world-class facilities. For instance, the current model of school funding provides funding to schools based on the number of students enrolled on September 1. It does not account for communities like ours where we have new families – and thus new students – moving in at a steady clip. Schools then have to accommodate that by cutting programs, or reducing teachers. We’ll explore avenues where funding can happen on a per-student basis on a continuous basis, as opposed to the current September 1 snapshot model.

CHANT: We all want our kids to have better opportunities than we did, and that starts with ensuring that they’ve got a high-quality education. We’re taking action to build and expand schools, and to reduce class sizes.

We can see the difference in our own neighbourhood – we have a new high school, Argyle, and just began construction on an expansion of Lynn Valley Elementary, adding 145 new student spaces.

When Rustad was in power, he made deep cuts to schools and education, closing 267 schools and fighting teachers all the way to the Supreme Court to try to increase class sizes.

He cut schools before, and he would do it again. That’s a risk we just can’t afford.

Why are you the best person for our community?

BAKER:  I was born in this community, I live in this community, and I’ve helped build this community. I have a strong, independent voice. As your independent MLA, I won’t be beholden to party politics. I’ll vote on legislation and policies that benefit our community, regardless of which side of the aisle they come from. To ensure fair representation, we need to elect a group of independents across the province who will stand up for, or against policies that could otherwise pass without proper checks and balances. With the possibility of a minority government, having a group of independents holding the balance of power would prevent runaway policies or rigid party-line politics, ensuring that the entire electorate is represented, not just party voters.

CHANDOLA: I’m known to be someone who gets things done. I immigrated to Canada with not much by way of wealth but immense hope and big dreams. I made my name in the tech industry and built a series of successful businesses that taught me the importance of fighting for my stakeholders. In my business world, my stakeholders were my customers and employees. In the public realm, my stakeholders are now you – the constituents of North Vancouver Seymour.

At a time when our communities are struggling from multiple crises – housing, cost of living, ridiculous wait times for healthcare and more – I know that my track record of getting things done, my ability to consult and work with stakeholders and my business acumen in optimising for on-time, on-budget outcomes is what our community needs. My ability to actually be able to deliver on solutions is reflected in the fact that I was awarded the Top 30 under 30 Award in BC Business, and the TMX Canada’s Next 150 award.

In the past few years, our community has lost out on an urgent care clinic which was instead located in Lonsdale, our traffic problems have worsened, as have most other measures of quality of life. It’s time to stop mistaking Action for Achievement.

It’s time to look towards positive change, and that comes from you and I finding common ground, working towards common goals, and implementing common sense. And that is my promise to you.

CHANT: I have lived in Lynn Valley all my adult life. It’s home. I’ve raised my family here and been involved in the organizations and events that make up the fabric of our community for decades.

You can count on me to stand up for you every day.

Is there anything else you would like to share and help us get to know you?

BAKER: I research and educate myself at every opportunity to make the best decisions for the tasks at hand. I am fair, honest, and not afraid of hard work. I’m running because  I believe this province is worth it—and so are you.

CHANDOLA: I love hearing from members of our community and would love the chance to talk to you about issues, questions and concerns they may have. Call or text me at 672-380-2125 or connect with me on my social media accounts listed at samchandola.ca.

I believe that better is always possible and as I have spoken to thousands of you in the past few months, that belief has only strengthened. Regardless of whether you intend to vote for me, I will leave you with this thought – better is always possible, and it is your right and your responsibility to demand it on October 19th.

CHANT: I’d like to thank all of our neighbours who help to make Lynn Valley and North Vancouver the wonderful place that it is. This is a great community and I am so proud to have represented our neighbourhood, and our riding, in Victoria since 2020. I am earnestly seeking your support for another term.

Looking for more?

There’s always something fun and exciting happening in Lynn Valley. Check out our Community Events Calendar or learn more about Local Activities, Mountain Biking or Hiking and Walking Trails.

October 3, 2024 in Blog, Governance and Services Comments (0)

Making a house a community home

The people behind Mollie Nye want the rooms and halls filled with the warmth of community and connection. With a range of intergenerational programs and a willingness to discuss more, this Lynn Valley jewel hopes you will stop by for a visit.

A community home

What is now known as the Mollie Nye house was one of the first homes built in Lynn Valley and was the lifetime home of Mollie Nye (1913-1997). The award-winning teacher was a lifelong community advocate who continues to serve long after her passing with the legacy of the Mollie Nye House. The community space remains a place to gather and connect.

Helen Murphy

“I want to fill the house as it should be,” said Helen Murphy, community engagement specialist for Lynn Valley Services Society.

The Mollie Nye House is a community resource overseen by a partnership between North Vancouver Recreation and the Lynn Valley Services Society (and also used by the Lynn Valley Community Association and the Lynn Valley Seniors Society). Its location and easy parking make it an ideal place for programming, said Murphy. 

“It is very accessible, there are good railings and grab bars – there has been a lot of care taken for access and inclusion,” she said. 

In an ideal world, the doors would be – literally – open and people would come and go from The House as a gathering space and community hub, said Murphy. This goal makes it an ideal space for rentals and to run inclusive community programming. 

Knowledge keepers and sharers

A wearer of many hats, Murphy brings her background as a community engagement specialist with past experience facilitating programming at Sunrise Senior Living, the District of West Vancouver and her work with the Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh nations. It’s shaping her vision to make The House a hub of intergenerational exchange. Programs run by the Lynn Valley Services Society aim to be affordable, keeping costs to a minimum and offering discrete financial assistance to those facing financial hardship. 

“One program I run is called Gather,” said Murphy. “And that is really the goal of Mollie Nye House to bring people together to create connections.”

Running every Wednesday through the end of the month each session is $7 and is facilitated and sweetened with tea, coffee and snacks. Participants come from a variety of backgrounds from young new immigrants to Lynn Valley old timers for an exchange of experience. 

“We have people in our community who have so much to offer,” said Murphy. “Just because you are retired doesn’t mean you are done. My work with the Tsleil-Waututh has given me an even deeper appreciation of knowledge keepers. My own [family] taught me the gift of sharing and teaching by just spending time together. I learned knitting, crochet, felting . . .”

The House is open to those who want to share a skill or experience. There are special events like Ocean Ambassadors Canada presenting a monthly Climate Cafe – a discussion of current events with an environmental lens, and a bi-monthly drumming circle. There are discussions in the works for more yoga. Plus an entire calendar filled with everything from Tai-chi to walking groups to the neighbourhood favourite Munch & Mingle. 

Mollie Nye House“There is a wonderful library in the back where people can come and borrow books,” said Murphy. 

To reach the goal of open doors and community gathering Murphy is always on the hunt for new programs to connect people of all ages.

“We don’t expect people to donate their time,” she said. “It could be singing, yoga, or something else fun. We have funding to pay people for their time and keep the programs low-cost for participants.”

Coming up

The calendar is pretty full at Mollie Nye House for the coming month. Join your neighbours at: 

  • Gather
    • Wednesdays until Oct. 30, 1-3 pm, $7/session tea, coffee and snacks, pre-register 604-987-5820
  • Drumming with Abby
    • Every second Monday, October 7 & 21,  3-4 pm. Suggested donation of sliding scale  $20
  • Climate Cafe with Ocean Ambassadors Canada 
    • Last Thursday of the month, Oct. 24, 1-2:30 pm, free, pre-register 604-987-5820. Light refreshments. Up next: Discussing carbon offsets

Looking for more?

There’s always something fun and exciting happening in Lynn Valley. Check out our Community Events Calendar or learn more about Local Activities, Mountain Biking or Hiking and Walking Trails.

October 3, 2024 in Blog, Getting Involved, Notable Neighbours Comments (0)

Lively Lynn Valley Legion

The Lynn Valley Legion has caught a fresh wind and its energy is bringing people in and pouring out into the community.

Energetic evenings

Flying under the radar, the Royal Canadian Legion Lynn Valley Branch 114 is building momentum to be the liveliest night spot in Lynn Valley. With expanded entertainment programming and more kitchen hours, young and old coming together and sharing their free time in this community institution. 

“There are lots of new faces,” said Joe Phillips, Legion president. “The crowd has changed a lot and we have almost doubled our membership.”

Popping into the Legion does not require a membership. Patrons are invited to stop by three or four times on a ‘temporary membership’ to make sure it’s worth the membership commitment before signing up – that said, memberships are half-price for the rest of the year, just $37.50 for new members. 

“Folks come in and it’s comfortable. It’s like a rec room of yesteryear – with two big 85-inch televisions,” said Phillips. “Plus a 45-inch TV on the patio with three heaters. It’s a great place to be on a cool night. We have great music and beverages that, we think, are at a reasonable price.” 

Leading the charge for new guests are trivia nights on Wednesdays. Teams test their knowledge with alternating weeks of music and general trivia. Thursday nights are a burger and beer special and live music – frequently Rufu Muse. Fridays bring the 50/50 and Legion classic Meat Draw. Saturdays are sometimes reserved for private events and, when open, the member’s favourite Meat Bingo takes centre stage. Since the season kicked off, Monday night has football on the big screens. Children are welcome each night until 8 pm.

Community givings

With roots dating back to 1925 the Royal Canadian Legion was founded to centralize support for WWI veterans. With a Lynn Valley presence since 1930, the Legion today contributes more than $150,000 dollars through grants and fundraising to veterans, first responders and local community groups. The Poppy Campaign alone received $76,000 in donations last year.

“We have a very active executive working for what’s best for the community and above all veterans [and first responders],” said Phillips. “Our goal is $100,000 and we won’t be able to do that without the community and members that volunteer at the poppy tagging platforms.”

It’s a simple process to give a couple of hours. Each of the eight or so locations across the District of North Vancouver has two-hour shifts. It’s a simple way to dip your toe into community service, said Phillips. This year’s campaign will kick off on October 27 and run through Nov. 11. To join the volunteers contact the legion or give Phillips a call at 604-315-1951 to take on a shift. 

The public platform is just one aspect of the poppy campaign with others being more than 200 donation boxes throughout the District and a partnership with School District 44.

“We want everyone to get a poppy,” said Phillips. “The young elementary students each get a sticker and the older students a poppy. That is over 12,000 poppies for all the schools on the North Shore.”

Funds supporting veterans and first responders go to a variety of projects from upgrading equipment at nursing homes to offering retraining and skill upgrades for young veterans. Other fundraising and grants support Lynn Valley community groups. These essential funds are distributed to everyone from sports teams to school PACs to community groups like Girl Guides. 

Looking for more?

There’s always something fun and exciting happening in Lynn Valley. Check out our Community Events Calendar or learn more about Local Activities, Mountain Biking or Hiking and Walking Trails.

October 3, 2024 in Blog, Notable Neighbours Comments (0)

Provincial priorities – Election 2024

With the provincial election mere weeks away, it’s time to start thinking about our community and the direction we want it to go. LynnValleyLife.com reached out to a number of organizations and individuals who are community leaders to get their two cents on the upcoming election.

Community engagement

Provincial voter turnout is down almost 25 percent from 20 years ago. Families have never been busier and local news has never been harder to keep up with. City council meetings and provincial debates don’t fit into the schedules of young people working two jobs. Seniors navigating the over-burdened healthcare system don’t have time to hold elected officials to account. Failed municipal, regional, and provincial projects are making people feel helpless.

We pride ourselves on being connected to the community. LynnValleyLife.com does its best to pay attention, ask tough questions, and leverage issues affecting Lynn Valley and the North Shore. Residents often seem surprised by decisions made on their behalf. Making a thoughtful intentional vote electing leaders that reflects your vision for the future is the simplest step to take.

Now is the time with an upcoming provincial election – the potential for a federal election – to dig in and participate in our democracy. Invest time and careful consideration in your vote and participate in guiding our future.

The goal of this thought gathering was to give a platform to those more engaged in the world of politics than the average citizen. We weren’t looking for them to endorse a particular candidate but instead to share which issues they think are the most pressing for the people of Lynn Valley and the greater North Shore. Some of these issues are bound to be universal like health care and housing, but there are distinct points of view unique to this community that candidates should have a position to support. Given the end of summer, we had fewer responses by deadline than hoped (that is we asked a diverse range of people/groups) and we appreciate those who took the time to share thoughts. 

North Vancouver Chamber

Patrick Stafford-Smith

The North Vancouver business community is diverse and strong – with many small- and medium-sized businesses, and several long-term larger employers.

The Top 3 concerns that dominate the business community are Transportation, Housing and Finding Staff. The challenges are all linked – good employees may often live outside of North Vancouver – due to a lack of affordable housing or any number of other personal reasons.  So, they take a long commute by car or if they are lucky, public transit. But, if the commute is too challenging, they may simply choose to find work closer to where they live.

This is not sustainable for local employers – so we are calling for provincial and federal investment to support the Mayors’ Council north shore public transit priorities. We are also looking for more housing options to help provide better options for people who work in the business and non-profit sector of our community.

Patrick Stafford-Smith   CEO –  North Vancouver Chamber

Board of Education Trustees

Linda Munro

Education matters to all of us. North Vancouver School District (NVSD) works hard to deliver learning opportunities that inspire student success. B.C.’s boards of education have identified three focus areas for the 2024 provincial election: inclusive education and student success; capital and deferred maintenance funding; and recruitment and retention of staff.

Locally, funding for inclusive education and core student learning remains an ongoing priority. Also, NVSD experienced record levels of new student enrolment in 2023-2024 and felt the impact of capacity pressure at some schools. Significant enrolment increases make capital funding for additional space a relevant local issue for the provincial election.  Key to our work at NVSD schools is community building and creating a sense of belonging.

Linda Munro, Chair – Board of Education, North Vancouver School District

Jordan Back

Jordan Back

I believe funding for infrastructure to be one of the key issues that we should be pressing candidates on, in the lead-up to this provincial election. The costs of all capital projects are skyrocketing, driven by factors such as inflation, supply chain disruptions, and rising labour costs. Despite these challenges, local governments still have only a few avenues to fund these essential projects. Whether it’s active transportation improvements, turf fields, or new recreation facilities, these types of facilities are crucial for maintaining and improving the quality of life, as our community grows but we cannot get them built without a strong partner in the provincial government. 

Jordan Back, Lynn Valley resident, Councillor – District of North Vancouver

LynnValleyLife.com

Day in and day out we hear the challenges of housing in Lynn Valley. The North Shore is a highly desirable place to live. Growing populations throughout Metro Vancouver have only one solution: more supply. Policies are needed to support this at all levels of government, and the District of North Vancouver and the Province need to stop dragging their heels and work together to make it happen.

Families want their children to have the option to remain in the community where they grew up – bonus: deep roots translate to community involvement. Small business owners see the exhaustion of their employees with 90+ minute commutes – bonus: less traffic on the roads. Homes with easy options for aging in place and a return to multigenerational living – bonus: reducing the pressure on institutional spaces like daycares and seniors’ homes. Thriving communities evolve and an election is the time to look for leaders that support your vision for the future.

The team at LynnValleyLife.com

Looking for more?

There’s always something fun and exciting happening in Lynn Valley. Check out our Community Events Calendar or learn more about Local Activities, Mountain Biking or Hiking and Walking Trails.

September 5, 2024 in Blog, Governance and Services Comments (0)

Youth creating a 2SLGBTQIA+ community

Entering its third school year, Queerly Quilled has expanded beyond its original literary roots to be a growing community for queer youth. Kicking off its 24/25 season on Sept. 11 at the Lynn Valley branch of NVDPL, the founders hope to see new faces join.

Build it and they will come

(courtesy Queerly Quilled)

Argyle Secondary grade 11 students London Clark and Aria Iliakis have always felt welcome at the library. It was a place to spend time, hang out and connect with others that wasn’t home or school. Both cared enough to want to give back by volunteering for the NVDPL’s Teen Advisory Group. The supportive and open space inspired the pair to kickstart the first youth-led program at the NVDPL. In that time between now and then it has evolved from the initial book club to an inclusive youth activity club – that sometimes involves books. 

“It’s a really good community for queer teens,” said Clark. “It’s a chance to meet people from other schools.”

The founders hope to offer connection, understanding and community to youth who might not experience that in all aspects of their lives. 

“A challenge a lot of teens have is that a lot of my friends are straight,” said Iliakis. “They are great but they don’t understand what its like to be queer –”

“They don’t get ‘it’,” adds Clark. 

The humble roots of Queerly Quilled (follow them on Instagram for club info) focused on queer books with a handful of people coming to the first meetings. Over the last 18 months momentum has grown and the group has had its own metamorphosis into a fun community that allows teens to be teens without the restraints of their school or home lives.

“Sometimes teens don’t have parents who are accepting or they don’t feel comfortable being trans at school. Here they can be who they are,” said Iliakis. “We have some homeschooled kids who don’t have as many opportunities to meet other queer teens.”

Everyone has a first day

The founders credit the empowering staff at the NVDPL to support and help them hone in on their vision and help them expand the club beyond its original book club vision. 

“Jessie [Hawkes, former teen engagement librarian] was amazing to help us get on our feet,” said Clark of the NVDPL staffer who helped get the ball rolling. “Sara [Oremland] has been so supportive and helpful.”

The program was born out of the ongoing youth consultation from the Library’s Teen Advisory Group. 

“We want to both support and empower teens in our community, so to have teen-created and teen-run library program like Queerly Quilled is the epitome of our service philosophy,” said Sara Oremland, youth engagement librarian. “Youth-led programs like Queerly Quilled give teens the chance to shape their community and take ownership of their experiences at the library.”

From ideas to space and snacks, the founders say the Lynn Valley staff are excellent mentors to keep them on track. 

“We’re always open to supporting teens in running programs they devise, so we encourage them to bring their ideas to the table and let us know what programs they might be interested in creating and running. Our teen leaders for Queerly Quilled have demonstrated impressive leadership skills,” Oremland. “Our youth department has something in the works for a program that would be partially youth-led, hopefully for next year.”

 New members of Queerly Quilled will experience a welcoming space, games and opportunity to connect with others. They have cleverly incentivized participation to encourage participants to speak up and get involved. 

“I want to meet new people and I remember not knowing anyone but London,” said Iilakis acknowledging it’s brave to try a new thing. “We have a lot of ice breakers and by focusing on activities we have a chance to get to know other people.”

“No one is shy once a game of Uno gets going,” said Clark. “We created opportunities for people to win these gold beads – we call them doubloons – and when we have advance reading copies of books we hold auctions with the winnings.”

Meetings days bring an abundance of energy to the library, says Oremland. 

“Queerly Quilled is our most exuberant group, and the feeling of joy, inclusion, and belonging is palpable during every meeting of queer youth and queer allies,” she said. “Our library believes in being a welcoming and inclusive space for everyone in our community, and this is also a core tenet of our philosophy for teen services. Public libraries are one of the few public spaces that are actively welcoming to teens, so we want to show that they are welcomed and respected, through our programming like Queerly Quilled, and also in the materials we offer and the spaces we create for them.”

When the doors open on Sept. 11 at 4 pm Clark and Iliakis are hoping to see a bunch of new faces. 

“Come meet new people, have fun and join a community of people like you, your own age,” said Clark.

Looking for more?

There’s always something fun and exciting happening in Lynn Valley. Check out our Community Events Calendar or learn more about Local Activities, Mountain Biking or Hiking and Walking Trails.

September 5, 2024 in Blog, Notable Neighbours Comments (0)