Maple Ridge council gave a unanimous support Tuesday to apply to become a city.
Council approved the idea and will use the alternative approval process, in which 10 per cent or more of voters have to object in order to force a referendum.
A staff report notes that municipalities must have populations of more than 5,000 to be considered a city and that Maple Ridge’s population is now at 77,402.
Maple Ridge Mayor Ernie Daykin favours becoming a city, providing it doesn’t cost much.
Staff says total cost will be about $3,000, including the cost of holding the alternative approval process.
Economic development manager Sandy Blue said the process could take a few months and could coincide with Maple Ridge’s 140 anniversary next September.
“My sense is that people are generally supportive.”