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Heather King announces bid for mayor

Public autonomy needs to be more 'front and centre,' councillor says
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Delta Coun. Heather King has announced she will run for mayor in the next civic election.

Another mayoral candidate has stepped up to the plate in Delta.

Coun. Heather King announced Wednesday she will run as an independent in the upcoming November civic election, just weeks after five-time Delta councillor Krista Engelland declared her intentions to contend for the position.

"Many people in Delta have indicated to me great enthusiasm over my decision to run and relief that there is a strong option for the mayor's seat," King said in an email.

While Lois Jackson—who has served as mayor the last 12 years—hasn't publicly announced plans for re-election, King said she will be "up for the challenge" of running against the 38-year council veteran.

At city hall, where King has served as councillor since 2008, more focus needs to be put on public autonomy, she said.

She gave the example of the traffic and safety committee that she used to chair, which is now run by staff and no longer has public representatives.

"When I served on the committee, I would be available all hours to receive calls from concerned citizens. Now, it needs to be done during office hours," she stated. "When I am elected as the next mayor, public engagement will be front and centre with the vision for making city hall transparent, open and welcoming."

In a press release sent out Wednesday morning, King made additional vows, such as continuing to ensure Delta taxes stay low and municipal debt is reduced, while the city's infrastructure is maintained.

With a firm belief in government that listens to and engages its citizens, King said she wants to hear what residents have to say about the issues of the day and the impact on their neighbourhoods.

"As mayor, I would welcome the opportunity to do more for Delta and ensure that we provide the highest quality of services possible."

King has worked in the community for nine years in various municipal positions. Before becoming a councillor, she served as a school board trustee and chair of the Board of Education.

She and husband Dean are longtime residents of Delta, where they live with their three sons.

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