Pitt Meadows retiring mayor Don MacLean is throwing his support behind Coun. John Becker, who is vying to replace him.
MacLean is the second council member to endorse Becker, a Pitt Meadows lawyer who was first elected in 2001.
“I think that John has a long history of business in the community and I think the city should be run like a business, so I think he’s the man for the job,” said MacLean, who has held the mayor’s position for the past 12 years.
“John and I are both fiscally conservative and I think as we see more and more demand for services, we have to be really, really wise in making our choices about what we can provide.”
Former Pitt Meadows mayor Bud Tiedeman also stepped forward last week to endorse Becker, as has Coun. Doug Bing, who initially was also going to seek the mayor’s position.
Couns. Tracy Miyashita, Gwen O’Connell and Bruce Bell are supporting Coun. Deb Walters for mayor.
The two councillors hoping replace MacLean kicked off their campaigns officially last week.
Becker hosted a launch party at the new South Bonson Community Centre on Thursday and has already begun knocking on doors.
“The reception has been very positive and has enabled me to hear from all kinds of people,” said Becker.
Both Becker and Coun. Deb Walters have been attending “coffee parties” hosted by supporters.
“It’s a great format for residents to get even more comfortable with how I’m qualified to manage the city’s $30 million budget,” said Becker.
Walters launched her website on Wednesday and plans to begin door-knocking shortly with a crew of 30.
She has enlisted the help of over 100 volunteers for her campaign, which is being managed by Tyler Shymkiw.
Walters has also been attending “coffee parties” hosted by supporters “who open up their homes to family and friends,” and where they have an opportunity to chat with Walters in an relaxed setting.
“It’s a good way to reach people you wouldn’t normally reach,” said Walters.
“For me, it’s all about the people of Pitt Meadows, so listening to their concerns one-on-one is very important to me.”
The nomination period for the Nov. 19 election closes on Friday.
As of Monday, city hall had received nine nominations.
Gary Paller and Walters filed nominations for the mayor’s positions.
John Clancy, Gay Conn, Janis Elkerton, David Murray and Gwen O’Connell are seeking positions as councillors, while Marcela Boggio and Sarah Nelson are hoping to get elected as school trustees.