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Meet Val – A Voice for Langley

I am a longtime resident of Langley, with deep roots in the community and a bold vision for its future.

With a background in business, sales, and customer service, I know how to listen, lead, and deliver results. My mission is to bring practical solutions and

people-first leadership to Langley—supporting local businesses, empowering families, and building

a community that works for everyone.

I have spent years listening, learning, and leading.

Now, I am stepping forward again to represent the

people—not the politics. I am an independent candidate with no party affiliations.  This campaign is built on transparency, compassion, and action. Whether it's mixed housing, better public transit, or protecting our green spaces, I believe Langley deserves

leadership that listens and delivers.

“I’m not here to play the game—I’m here to change it.”

Val van den Broek
Advance voting Township of Langley By-election
General voting day Township of Langley By-election

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Key Issues

We need to join forces and tackle the key issues affecting community. Together, we can create meaningful change and foster a better environment for everyone. Let's unite our efforts and make a positive impact on the lives around.

My mission for Langley is rooted in fiscal accountability and transparency, ensuring that every decision made serves the best interest of our citizens. I am dedicated to the community, I will prioritize your needs and foster an environment of trust and responsibility. Together, we can create a brighter future for Langley through diligent effort and open communication.

 

MY CAMPAIGN


is about turning everyday challenges into meaningful change—through smart solutions, open dialogue, and relentless dedication.

Together, we can build a Langley that works for everyone.

Transportation / Urban Planning

Township of Langley By-election

Urban planning and transportation are deeply integrated, with each element significantly influencing the other to shape a city's form, accessibility, and quality of life. Cohesive planning that links land use and transit creates more sustainable, equitable, and economically vibrant communities. Creating mixed housing and transportation options are vital for creating lively and inclusive communities for all generations. They encourage social interaction by bringing together people from different backgrounds, nurturing a sense of belonging. Accessible transportation enables all residents conveniently reach essential services, job opportunities, medical appointments, and recreational areas. Ultimately, these elements lead to a more sustainable and harmonious living environment for everyone. Transportation planning can be used to combat issues arising from existing urban forms. For example, well-designed public transit can alleviate traffic congestion, improve air quality, and reduce the environmental footprint left by car-centric sprawl. Integrated planning is a smarter and more responsible approach that uses infrastructure and tax dollars more efficiently.

Standard of Living

Township of Langley By-election

Economic growth in a city is all about energizing the local economy and boosting the quality of life for everyone! involves exciting initiatives like creating new jobs, attracting innovative businesses, and improving infrastructure. The benefits are incredible—think of all the new opportunities, higher incomes, and enhanced public services come from a thriving economy! Ultimately, when a city flourishes economically, it transforms into a vibrant community where residents can truly enjoy an elevated standard of living! This also offers working closer to home with several benefits that enhance both personal and professional life. It reduces commuting time, allowing individuals to spend more time with family and engage in leisure activities. Additionally, commutes can lead to lower transportation costs and decreased stress levels, contributing to overall well-being. Furthermore, locals can foster stronger community ties and support the local economy, creating a more connected neighborhood.

Fiscal Accountability

Township of Langley By-election

 It means managing public funds wisely and ensuring that every dollar spent is for and aligned with our community's priorities. By prioritizing transparency and accountability in our budgeting process, we can make informed decisions that support essential services while minimizing waste. No extra's, lets get back to the basics, and provide what is our core mandate as a municipal government.  Together, we can create a sustainable financial future that benefits all residents and fosters trust in our local government.

Emergency Services & Safety

Building an Inclusive and Resilient Township hinges on two core areas: the ongoing transition of Langley RCMP Detachment and population growth. As a former employee, Auxiliary Constable, and volunteer for both the Township and City of Langley at the Langley RCMP Detachment for many years I know the history. I was there for it on both sides. I believe I am a valuable resource for moving forward on it's disintegration. 

We need to also address the public safety demands of rapid population growth. This growth will create:

  • Strain on resources: The Township's fire and police services must keep pace with growth across its six urban centers, which are spread out over a large geographical area. We also must make sure our personnel are not being overworked and consider PTSD, physical, and mental health issues

  • Increased traffic and road safety: Enforcement is required to ensure road safety, especially with the use of commercial vehicles. 

  • Vulnerable populations:  emergency planning must consider how crises disproportionately impact certain groups, such as the homeless, low-income seniors, and those with health issues

QUESTIONS ASKED BY THE COMMUNITY

LAPS Questions Township By Election October 08, 2025

1.Animals contribute to our community in diverse ways - as companions, participants in sport and recreation, and as part of local industries. How will you, as a council member, ensure that policies reflect responsibility to the animals themselves, to industry stakeholders, and to the individuals who provide care?

Prioritize Animal Welfare Across All Sectors: Strengthen bylaws around pet spay/neuter programs and anti-abuse enforcement.

Ensure that animals involved in activities like equestrian events or dog agility are protected by clear standards for care, rest, and veterinary oversight.

Engage stakeholders in policy development: Create advisory panels that include veterinarians, animal welfare organizations, farmers, trainers, and recreational groups. Host community consultations to hear from caregivers, volunteers, and residents about their experiences and concerns.

Offer training and resources for those who care for animals—whether professionally or personally—including mental health support for high-stress roles like shelter workers and veterinary staff.

Provide grants or subsidies for rescue organizations, wildlife rehabilitation centers, and therapeutic animal programs.

Recognize and celebrate the contributions of caregivers through public awareness campaigns and civic awards.

Monitor, Enforce, and Evolve: Establish a local animal welfare oversight body to monitor compliance and investigate complaints.

Maintain compliance with provincial and federal legislation while proactively seeking innovative solutions to address specific local requirements.

This kind of policy framework ensures that animals are respected not just as resources or companions, but as sentient beings whose well-being matters. It also builds trust with industry and care providers by recognizing their expertise and challenges.

2. Langley has an overpopulation issue related to cats, yet cats are not covered under the bylaw. What steps, if any, do you think the Township of Langley should take to reduce the cat overpopulation issue?

Langley faces a significant cat overpopulation issue, with thousands of free-roaming and feral cats impacting animal welfare, public health, and local wildlife. Currently, cats are not included in the Township’s animal control bylaw, limiting effective management.

To address this, council should amend the animal control bylaw to include cats, requiring licensing, identification, and mandatory spay/neuter for all owned cats unless registered as breeders. Penalties for abandonment and non-compliance should be established.

The Township should partner with veterinarians and animal welfare organizations to offer low-cost or subsidized spay/neuter services and support Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs for feral cats. Grants and resources should be provided to shelters and rescue groups to help manage intake and care.

Public education campaigns are essential to promote responsible cat ownership, the importance of spay/neuter, and the impact of cat overpopulation. Community caregivers involved in TNR should be recognized and supported.

An animal welfare oversight body should monitor compliance, investigate complaints, and evaluate program effectiveness. Funding can be sourced from municipal budgets, grants, and partnerships.

This comprehensive approach will reduce cat overpopulation, improve animal welfare, and benefit the entire community.

3. Council of Langley recently updated the Animal Control Bylaw, the Public Spaces Bylaw, and is reviewing other services related to animals in the community. What comment, if any, do you have related to the issues?

To effectively address animal welfare in Langley, council should prioritize robust partnerships with local animal organizations. Begin by establishing advisory panels that include representatives from animal welfare groups, veterinarians, rescue organizations, and community caregivers. These panels offer expert input for policy development and program design.

Formalize these partnerships through service agreements or Memorandums of Understanding, clearly defining roles, responsibilities, and shared objectives. Collaborate on joint initiatives such as low-cost spay/neuter clinics, Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs for feral cats, adoption events, and public education campaigns. Pool resources for grants, fundraising, and volunteer recruitment to maximize community impact.

Engage the public by hosting regular consultations and town halls, fostering transparency and building trust. Recognize the contributions of animal groups and volunteers through civic awards and awareness campaigns.

Share data on animal intake, outcomes, and program effectiveness to guide policy decisions and improve services. Work together on transition and crisis planning to ensure continuity of care during service changes or emergencies.

4. Given limited municipal budgets, where does animal welfare rank among your priorities, and how would you fund improvements?

Animal welfare is a key priority for council, as it directly impacts public health, safety, and community well-being. While municipal budgets are limited, investing in animal welfare yields broad benefits, including reducing stray populations, supporting vulnerable residents, and fostering public trust.

To fund improvements, council should leverage partnerships with local organizations such as the Langley Animal Protection Society (LAPS), which have a strong track record of service and community support. Volunteer-driven models and collaboration help stretch municipal resources further. Council should also seek external funding by applying for provincial, federal, and private grants dedicated to animal welfare, and encourage community fundraising efforts, sponsorships, and legacy gifts to supplement municipal budgets.

Integrating animal welfare into core municipal services ensures it is considered alongside other essential priorities. Public education campaigns, responsible pet ownership programs, and support for spay/neuter initiatives can be cost-effective ways to improve outcomes. Sharing data and collaborating with stakeholders allows council to monitor effectiveness and adjust strategies as needed.

Candidate Statement Township Website September 

This by-election isn’t just about filling a seat—it’s about restoring trust, strengthening our future, and making sure every voice in our township is heard. I’ve lived in Langley for over 25 years, worked with both the Township and City through the Langley RCMP Detachment, and served as a councilor and Mayor of Langley City. I’m also a former Langley Auxiliary RCMP Constable, and I am an animal advocate and rescuer, and passionate about travel and photography.I believe every tax dollar should be spent wisely. I’ll fight for budgets that reflect community priorities—not political agendas. We deserve safe streets and strong partnerships with law enforcement and social services.I stand for transparent governance—no more backroom decisions.Langley must grow responsibly, with diverse housing options like co-ops, seniors’ villages, and townhouses—and transportation that serves all generations.I’m not here to play politics.I’m here to serve.Let’s build a Langley that works for everyone.

Langley Teachers’ Association Questions 2025.10.01

How do you perceive the responsibilities of a councillor in relation to the School District?

Maintaining open and effective communication between the District and Council is essential. During my tenure as Mayor, I met regularly—almost monthly—with the Chair of the School Board Trustees to discuss plans, share ideas, and address emerging issues. Additionally, Council held biannual meetings with the Board to foster ongoing connections. It is also vital for a councillor to be appointed to relevant committees to facilitate information sharing, build relationships, and establish partnerships. Collaborative planning is only possible when all key stakeholders are actively engaged and aligned in their objectives.

What strategies would you propose for developing infrastructure that effectively supports both community needs and educational institutions in Langley?

It is essential to prioritise transportation and community planning based on Smart Growth principles and Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design. This approach ensures that the majority of amenities in each township neighbourhood are accessible within a 10-minute walk from residences, with schools, shopping, fitness centres, and businesses located near transit hubs. As the population continues to expand, it is incumbent upon us, as a municipal government, to adhere to and fulfil our established mandates.

Are there any strategies for cost-effective housing and community development initiatives?

The introduction of transit-oriented developments with the arrival of Skytrain offers a range of housing solutions within transit-accessible areas. It remains essential to construct diverse types of housing throughout the Township, including cooperative housing, which has proven successful yet has not received sufficient attention from the Federal Government in recent years. Cooperative models enable individuals across various income levels to build inclusive communities and offer mutual support. These approaches may also be applicable to senior villages and trailer parks. Encouraging developers to pursue innovative solutions collaboratively will help ensure outcomes that benefit all residents. Further details are available at www.voteval4langley.ca.

 

Question 4:  What will you do to preserve ecosystems and biodiversity in Langley, with special attention to new development? And do you support building childcare on existing parks?

As a resident of Langley, I believe our community has a responsibility to protect the ecosystems and biodiversity that make this region so unique. With increasing development pressures, we must ensure that growth does not come at the expense of our natural heritage.

I support policies that:

Require comprehensive environmental impact assessments for all new developments, especially near wetlands, forests, and wildlife corridors.

Promote green infrastructure—such as permeable surfaces, native plantings, and wildlife-friendly design—to reduce ecological disruption.

Expand and connect protected natural areas to maintain biodiversity and support climate resilience.

Encourage community-led stewardship programs that engage residents in restoration and conservation efforts.

Langley can be a model for development that respects and enhances the natural environment.

Parks and Childcare: Striking a Balance

While I recognize the urgent need for accessible childcare, I do not support building facilities on existing parkland unless:

There is clear evidence that the space is underutilized and ecologically low impact.

The design incorporates nature-based learning and preserves green space.

The community is fully consulted, and alternative sites have been thoroughly explored.

Parks are not just recreational spaces—they are vital ecosystems and community assets. We must be cautious not to sacrifice long-term environmental health for short-term infrastructure needs. Further details are available at www.voteval4langley.ca. or email me at voteval4langley@gmail.com

Election questions from the Langley Advance Times 2025.10.07 QUESTIONNAIRE

1. Candidate’s first and last name: Val van den Broek

2. Candidate’s age: 52

3. Where do you live (municipality/neighbourhood)? Langley Aldergrove

4. How long have you lived in Langley? 25 years

5. Occupation: Federal Public Servant RCMP - Court Liaison for BC Highway Patrol

6. Have you run for or held office before? Tell us about it:

I was a Langley City Councillor from October 2014 until October 2018. During that term we remained debt free and focused on the community by finishing Timm’s Community Center, building community gardens, parks, baseball fields, playgrounds, and dog parks. I put forward a motion to have the road to the Cenotaph renamed Veterans Way.

I was Langley City Mayor from October 2018 until October 2022. Despite a world health pandemic, fires, floods, a heat dome, and several community tragedies, I fulfilled all my campaign promises. During that term I secured 4.4 billion dollars with TransLink to bring Skytrain to Langley, helped create a Foundry, voted no to two tax increases of 10% & 7%, and successfully campaigned for the Cloverdale Hospital and an Urgent Care Center.

7. Social media accounts, websites, email, or phone number that voters can use to reach you:

Facebook Page: Vote Val 4 Langley Township

Website: www.voteval4langley.ca

Email: voteval4langley@gmail.ca    

8. Candidate bio. You are invited to submit at 50-word max bio.

I’ve lived in Langley for 25 years, worked for both the Township and City at the Langley RCMP Detachment, and served as Councillor and Mayor of Langley City. I’m also a former Langley Auxiliary RCMP Constable, and I am an animal advocate and rescuer, and passionate about travel and photography.

9. If you are elected, what is the main goal you seek to accomplish on council during the coming year, before the 2026 election? (Maximum 200 word response):

As a dedicated Councillor and former Township employee, I am deeply committed to the future of Langley. My experience and ongoing engagement with council agendas mean I am ready to deliver results from day one. I understand the issues that matter most to residents—affordable housing, reliable transit, and responsible growth—and I am prepared to take action.

My top priorities are clear: First, I will advocate for the creation of a new South of the Fraser Metro Region, giving Langley a stronger voice and better access to regional resources. Second, I will promote Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs) around SkyTrain stations and new Rapid Bus lines, making it easier for families, seniors, and workers to access affordable housing, jobs, and services while reducing traffic congestion and protecting our environment. Third, I will work collaboratively with council members and staff, listen to residents, and bring forward motions that lead to real improvements in our community.

I am running again in the 2026 election because I believe in Langley’s potential. My knowledge of the RCMP and City operations allows me to deliver practical solutions. With your support, I will continue to fight for a safer, more vibrant, and inclusive Township for all.

Authorized and Sponsored by Valaria van den Broek 604-908-7863

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