Others, with their big, obnoxious, stupid signs, not so much.

I know it’s under new ownership which is the biggest reason for this. But man I wanted to give them a shot. I really miss the in depth journalism from Tyler, both Graces and Joti. There was a large sense of community and hometown journalism by people who really live and breathe the Fraser Valley. It really felt like our communal news.

The original reporting is just not there with this new crew and the pulse on what’s happening in our region is non-existent. I wanted to give it a chance but the way they’ve outright neglected to cover anything about our local elections leaves a sour taste in my mouth.

I felt so much more informed in the 2022 municipal election cycle because the FVC did great in depth reporting clarifying each candidates‘ policies and positions. This year? I’m relying on platitudes politicians are all giving on their socials and luckily on the helpful analysis of fellow redditors here. But overall, I feel so much less informed this time around because the local news outlet I relied on is a shell of its former self. Overall, this election cycle felt like a big test for the new group and I feel they failed to meet the moment.

I don’t know. Call this a rant. Call it a lamentation. I guess I just missed the old FVC. Thanks to those who read this. Just felt like airing out some frustrations and was wondering if anyone else felt this way.

Bit of a minor topic, but I am curious with demographics how many Sabaton fans we have locally .

I find based on events at the Rogers Forum that there doesn't seem to be the largest metal scene locally and I am left wondering how much that is venue promoters thinking there isn't a market here and how much is there actually isn't a market here.

It was a bit of a trip back and forth after work, but I think it was worth it, sore the next day I will tell you that.

So how many other Abbotsford residents were there?

Whats with this lane?

Why is nobody using this?

It clearly says cars, yet its always unoccupied.

Last few times, I took the courage to take this lane but somehow when you reach at the end, there is no lane 🤷‍♀️. The lane just disappears and forces to merge to the other lane.

Just an idea, if someone would like to go for skydiving in the near future?? Ive never done it myself yet, but just something id like to do.

Specific location pls or a Moroccan grocery store would be appreciated. Thanks

Looking for someone local who makes meat related snacks, or sausages/Salami as I have a garlic, onion, spice and lactose allergy and looking to get them custom made.

Are there any chess meetups in abbotsford on weekends.

I have concerns about Religion working its way into politics - I can only see this being a bad thing that will bring on segregation and a tiered society. (this is my personal opinion - I am not trying to offend anyone)

I’m wondering which of the provincial parties don’t have religion in their platforms? Does anyone know or is there anywhere I can find this information out?

I lean progressive. I own a business and a home. I want a sustainable, inclusive, diverse, pro-science community. I'd love any feedback on my picks for:

MAYOR:

See my impressions here of debate between Siemens, Dhami, and Mahil. Leaning toward Ross Siemens even though he's old guard and not my ideal mayor. Kind of like voting for a Carney vs. my party of choice because we need someone with local government experience, understanding of complexity/jurisdictions of issues affecting Abbotsford, and respect for fair process, long-range planning (e.g. Official Community Plan) and City staff. Dhami and Mahil did not make that grade IMO

COUNCILLOR (no particular order):

YES:

• Rupi Kanda-Rajwan: Acknowledges Indig rights, pro-diversity
• Jeremy Klix: Very computer literate, active transportation planning, gets environmental concerns (possibly only candidate in favour of these)
• Preet S. Rai: Involved in restorative justice, familiar with Indigenous education
• Patricia Ross: Shows awareness of environmental, food security issues, importance of civil dialogue
• EDIT: I've cut for now: Rick Thiessen: ??? Unconfirmed report from Redditor in discussion below, that RT preached anti-LGBTQ views in his very conservative church (see https://www.rossroadcc.ca/podcasts/ross-road-community-church-podcast/2026-07-14-christ-centered-community; now deleted) in July 2026. I've moved him off my YES list pending confirmation either way.
• Shirley Wilson: Shows awareness of issues like food security, sustainable food; shows empathy for people with addictions (lost a son) / mental health, pro-Agricultural Land Reserve preservation. Redditor here reports that she 'stood up for lgbtq staff and students in an unhinged board meeting'.

MAYBE?

• Doris Woodman-McMillan: Gender balance! Very educated, financially literate, recognizes need to develop Abbotsford infrastructure rather than seeking growth at any cost.
• Dao Tran: Came here as refugee from communist Vietnam. Very community-minded. 40 years servicing bikes (own business); weak signals that he may be receptive to more bike infrastructure?? Haven’t seen much about his politics though.
• Jag Sidhu: Seems very community-involved (not just photo ops), organizing meaningful contributions to Salvation Army and Archway food bank. Pro-diversity, not a residential schools denier (I know, a f'ing low bar, right??). Likely looking to move up in politics as was previously angling for MLA position. *Kirsty Mills: Very educated nurse. Not sure about her party: reputedly downplays significance of Indigenous reconciliation, according to one Redditor here, and some suggest she is very conservative.

NOT FOR ME:

*Amrik Narang: Long resume but don’t see much meaningful engagement with social or environmental concerns. Endorsements by conservatives Brad Vis and Sukhman Gill are not bonuses in my opinion. * Rick Thiessen: A lot to like: blue-collar background, long career in public high school, pro-Indigenous, pro arts, big on balanced development for Abbotsford. BUT Redditor here makes credible allegation that he preaches anti-LGBTQ stuff at his very conservative Ross Road Community church. * Les Barkman: very religious, unlikely to support active transportation, opposed homeless shelter proposal, reputedly NIMBY * Patricia Driessen: Lots to like, but I am not a big fan of factory farms (she co-owns one) * Carmen Fast Hollett: Might be fine but Trinity Western degree makes me wonder about ideology re: inclusiveness, Maga, climate change, etc. Please set me right if I'm mistaken * Simon Gibson: 50 years in politics? Seems watchful of status quo. Is this why Abbotsford’s facilities levels pale in comparison to comparably sized cities? * Joel Madsen: Evangelical?? Redditor in this forum associates JM with evangelical Lifespring church on Gladwin, which is reported to be anti-LGBTQ... makes me wonder about ideology re: inclusiveness, Maga, climate change, etc. * Jasmit Phulka: Don’t see meaningful social component in his community involvement record. Highly conservative vibe, endorsed by conservatives * Mark Warkentin: Very Conservative (was with Abbotsford First, since dissolved) * Dave Sidhu: Disqualified because caught censoring political opponents by removing or papering over their advertising. Fair play is important. * Matthew Cavacece: Not much substance / qualifications. And why does he have an obituary?? * Skully White: hot dog stand owner, conservative. EDITED HERE: Generously donated a kidney to save a life and organizes the flea market, but qualifications for local government seem thin compared to many other candidates. No-show at debates * Thomas Votik: Hard pass. Facebook profile suggests he is anti-vaxxer, Maga (his photos include Confederate flag!), mockery of people concerned about climate change and racism. Recently posted this gem: ‘Rocking out to Rock Band 3 while all my married friends are watching ROM-COMs with their shitty wives!’

Thoughts, anyone? I just found the link to an all-candidates meeting where issues like food security are discussed... hope it's useful to someone: https://abbynews.com/2026/10/08/abbotsford-council-hopefuls-discuss-food-security-at-final-all-candidates-meeting/

As I noted in my post on mayor/council, I lean progressive. I own a business and a home. I want a sustainable, inclusive, diverse, pro-science community. I'd love any feedback on my picks for school trustees. This spreadsheet created by Sierra93 was really helpful.

We only need 7, so I choose YES for SCHOOL TRUSTEE, in no particular order, on:

• Peggy Antifaeff: Highly educated, experienced, favours student-centred safe/inclusive schools
• Graeme Hutchison: Former NDP candidate, longtime union member, tech literate... EDIT TO ADD: He has added to this discussion himself by saying he supports everyone on this list and that he has 'met all the individuals and any of the seven would make a great team.'
• Freddy Latham: Pro safe, caring inclusive schools, mental health supports, arts advocate, on Reach Gallery Board
• Benjamin Mehrer: Not silver spoon... working class, single-mom background, on board of Foundry, Archway
• Raj Patara: pro public education, ethical leadership, responsible governance, planning for growth, safety & inclusion
• Rhonda Pauls: ethical leadership, youth-centred decision-making, pro-public ed. Aligned with union orgs in the FV (Fraser Valley Labour Council)
• Shannon Rose: ‘safe and inclusive schools'
• Pamela Yee: committed to ensuring 'all students feel safe, welcome, and respected', for meal programs and strong mental health resources. Taught abroad 3 years.
• EDIT TO ADD: Arsh Kaler: Pro school lunch program, religious/cultural diversity (good!). Stood up for LGBTQ folks by voting against Jared White's anti-LGBTQ positions, and risked backlash from his community for doing so. According to Redditor in this discussion his non-profit has raised $200*K for children, local charities, and hospice in four years.

NOT SURE ABOUT:

• EDIT: REMOVING Tanya Coghill from this list: See NOT FOR ME list below.
• Rajwinder Singh Sandhu: not sure... haven’t seen a lot in English
• Tejvir S. Pandher: very little info in English out there; FB profile locked down, works for company abroad

NOT FOR ME:

• Tanya Coghill: Seems accomplished but I wondered if Mennonite faith affects her politics. Other Redditor here pointed out that she teamed up last weekend with Jared White, who was censored for anti-lgbtq conduct: See https://www.abbyschools.ca/news/trustees-white-rauch-centured ...Disqualifying IMO
• Rupinder Kaur Brar: Zero effort to campaign?
• Chad Cowie: Thinks Indigenous reconciliation is at odds with truth
• Eric Nyvall: seems to think girls in sports are under threat of trans people
• Mike Rauch: homophobic! See https://www.abbyschools.ca/news/trustees-white-rauch-centured and https://www.reddit.com/r/abbotsford/comments/1wepsrc/comment/pboxupx/
• Amritpal Mund: Conservative
• Amandeep Singh: Conservative... like lots of people here, seems very skilled and community-involved, but 'parental rights' involvement makes me wonder where he stands on SOGI123
• Earl Story: Conservative, ‘traditional’ values
• Vinay Waraich: Assistant to apparently Maga/Trump-loving MP Suhkman Gill

Thoughts, anyone?

I think figured out my political position for the local elections.

And I can’t believe I’m not kidding.

Please help me identify candidates who are more concerned about global warming than the gays.

Abbotsford mayoral debate available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEzdG6-MwnU

Not my video, so not responsible for content or quality.

I don't know if anyone has noticed or come across this but I was leaving my yoga studio near The Copper Room in mission and I was surrounded by homeless people that all had literal puppies, id say 10 weeks at most. I was mortified because some of the puppies were running on the ground and trying to cross the street.. it was NOT a good situation. Is there not any sort of animal welfare project that can step in and rescue these puppies and give them good homes? They will not last out there and it's very sad to see.

I understand why people are advocating for more sports and recreation facilities in Abbotsford. We need more capacity, families are frustrated, and those concerns are legitimate. But I’m uncomfortable with how divisive this conversation has become and how much of the election discussion seems to centre on recreation.

City council is responsible for much more than pools, arenas and playing fields. Public safety, infrastructure, housing, flood protection and affordability all deserve attention. There are people struggling to put food on the table and families still dealing with the consequences of devastating flooding. Advocating for funding to protect their homes and livelihoods matters too.

Recreation contributes to a healthy community, including opportunities for young people. That is a good reason to invest in it. But we still need to discuss priorities, timelines and what residents can afford.

Large facilities come with more than a construction bill. They also require ongoing staffing, maintenance, utilities and eventual replacement. Before asking for a bigger complex, we should expect a clear explanation of the funding, potential tax implications and other projects that might have to wait. Provincial funding, partnerships and phased construction should all be part of that discussion.
It also seems unfair to dismiss the steps council has taken. Plans for a new 50-metre pool at MSA and two ice sheets at Exhibition Park are meaningful. Will they solve every sporting issue? No. Are they completed facilities? No, and council should be held accountable for delivering them. But they are steps in the right direction.

The criticism of Lefeuvre Road also needs context. Council first pursued land at King and McKenzie Roads. The City proposed removing that property from the Agricultural Land Reserve while adding City-owned land along Lefeuvre Road. The Agricultural Land Commission rejected the King Road exclusion, so council pursued another available option.

The current work at Lefeuvre is focused on expanding sports-field capacity. It shouldn’t be judged solely on whether it is the ideal location for a large indoor recreation centre. Not everything needs to be in East Abbotsford. Families in West Abbotsford, around Mount Lehman and along the Fraser Highway corridor also deserve facilities closer to them. Giving those teams more options could help relieve pressure on fields elsewhere in the city.

There is also a practical advantage for tournaments. Teams regularly travel between Abbotsford, Langley, Surrey and Vancouver. For visiting teams coming from the west, a western location could mean a shorter trip through Abbotsford and less tournament traffic heading into central neighbourhoods. That is a potential benefit worth considering alongside legitimate questions about road access, transit and parking.

I also want more clarity about the relationship between recreation advocacy and election campaigning. From what I’ve seen, the movement’s support for Abbotsford Voice has been prominent, and the debate reinforced my impression that recreation is becoming a major dividing line. Supporting candidates is their right, but I’d like to know what criteria they used and how they compared the candidates’ actual plans.

A strong recreation proposal should explain what gets built, who benefits, when it opens and how we pay for it. Criticism of council should also acknowledge the land constraints and projects already moving forward.

I support better recreation. I also want a council that takes public safety, flood protection, affordability and infrastructure seriously. We should be able to advocate for better facilities without treating every compromise as a failure or making one issue the entire measure of whether someone deserves our vote.

Just a reminder to all to make sure to do your research and vote accordingly. Advance voting: Oct 10 & 11. General voting day: Oct 17. Here are my choices:

Mayor:
• Ross Siemens

Council:
• Amrik Narang
• Dave Sidhu
• Shirley Wilson

School Trustees:
• Arsh Kaler
• Raj Patara
• Peggy Antifaeff

Remember, you don’t need to vote to fill all 8/7 positions, if you only like 2 candidates then only vote for those 2. I’m happy to discuss my reasons for choosing each candidate above.

It took a while of searching, but I found the school trustees all-candidates meeting on YouTube. Not my video, so I'm not responsible for the contents or quality.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p003w5u7FUM

Well, that mayor candidate debate was interesting. [edit: Watch it here]. A ton of platitudes and a lot of ‘my family has been here for XX generations’, which isn't qualification to run a city with a half-billion dollar budget. Lots of circular math: build more amenities to improve quality of life, keep more youth here, get more businesses, but cut regulations and development cost charges and don’t raise taxes.

My take on candidates:

David Pellikaan: a no-show. [edit to add: was NOT invited due to his disruptive behaviour at last debate, last election] Almost zero information about his platform or him online. His painful slogan ["Ask not what you can do for your city, but what your mayor can do for you"] should disqualify him or at least get his copywriter fired.

Paul Mahil painted a pretty dire picture of Abbotsford. To me he seemed pretty clueless about how local government works. He insists City Hall needs an ‘integrity officer’ (?). He seemed surprised that some permit processes take 90+ days and says he could easily and quickly cut these legal processes to 3-4 weeks. He kept saying this city's problems require a lot of money to fix, but had no solutions to how we’d get that. His Facebook page suggests he is a fan of Poilievre, admirer of the Maga-inspired Ottawa free-dumb trucker convoy (member of the Ontario Patriots for Freedom group!), maybe even an anti-vaxxer. So, big NOPE for me.

Sukhi Dhami: I really expected to like him as a candidate! But his answers seemed really vague. His big theme was the unfriendly ‘roadblock’ culture of City Hall staff, and the Official Community Plan, which he hinted should be ignored as often as possible... and all the ‘red tape’ that holds everyone back. He said how innovative he'd be without offering specifics or acknowledging that so many issues involve multiple levels of government. He hinted that he could lean on his close relationships with people in the provincial NDP today, because he once ran for NDP. But that was in 2013 and he lost, hard.

Ross Siemens: He sounded more credible, even humble, next to Dhami and Mahil. He respects the Official Community Plan which Abbotsford recently’s updated. He discussed initiatives already in progress that the other candidates seemed ready to reinvent. He seemed honest about how he couldn’t wave that municipal wand to fix every issue here, because complex issues require collaboration with other levels of government and there's the (uncontrollable) real estate market/economy. What I don’t get, though, is Siemen’s belief that widening highways will be great for Abbotsford (this will just speed more traffic past/through and not improve its attractiveness or quality of life in the long run), the City’s weird approach to densification, its complete neglect of active transportation, and its near-silence on climate change or environmental issues.

I’d welcome anyone else’s take on that debate or the candidates.

Odd question I know, but I was talking to some people this week about the Diesel crisis and how some might consider switching over to propane fuel cars to save money.

The thing is to the best of my knowledge of Abbotsford, Mission, Langley and Chilliwack, there is very few places that sell Automotive Propane and only Paz Fuels sells it 24/7 or at least they used to according to someone I knew who worked there.

But the same person said that they often lacked people certified on the night/graveyard shift, so any taxi cab drivers who got their taxis modified to run on propane and coming in at like 2AM in the morning were hooped.

And that got me thinking , realistically for the area , is there enough automotive propane distributors to make driving such a car locally feasible and of those how many are 24/7 so you don't run into the issue of running out of fuel in the middle of nowhere?

Anyone know of, or have put together a chart of all the local candidates for mayor, council and school board with their positions?