Coquitlam (October 20, 2025) The Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce recently hosted an engaging Mingle with the Mayor event featuring Coquitlam Mayor Richard Stewart, who shared candid insights into the complex challenges facing municipalities today—from housing and development to mental health and regional governance.
Mayor Stewart opened with reflections on Coquitlam’s longstanding spirit of collaboration with neighbouring councils, School District 43, and the Chamber. He emphasized the Chamber’s vital role in connecting local business and government to build a thriving, informed community—particularly as the province looks ahead to the 2026 municipal elections.
Mun Bagri. General Manager. GreenTee Country Club Westwood Plateau
Housing Pressures Mount
A key focus of the discussion was Coquitlam’s ongoing housing crisis. Once recognized as a provincial leader in housing innovation, the city now faces significant hurdles due to shifting provincial regulations, higher borrowing costs, and limited development financing. Mayor Stewart noted that the city’s goal of 6,400 new units over five years is increasingly difficult to meet under current conditions.
He expressed concern about the impact of recent rule changes—such as the removal of public hearings and bonus density incentives—on project viability and affordability. The Mayor underscored the importance of renewed partnerships between municipalities, developers, and senior governments to unlock housing supply and address infrastructure funding gaps.
Beyond Bricks and Mortar
The conversation also touched on the broader social challenges tied to housing and community wellbeing. Mayor Stewart highlighted the urgent need for stronger provincial support in addressing the mental health and addiction crises, emphasizing that shelters alone are not solutions without proper medical treatment and wraparound services.
Jennifer McKinnon, CEO, Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce
Regional Costs and Governance
Turning to Metro Vancouver, Mayor Stewart voiced serious concerns about governance and cost control, particularly around major infrastructure projects such as water and wastewater treatment. He called for greater transparency, better information for board members, and more disciplined fiscal management to prevent spiraling costs that burden local taxpayers.
“Events like Mingle with the Mayor are important for building trust and collaboration across sectors. They create space for honest dialogue, shared vision, and meaningful partnerships that help ensure the Tri-Cities continues to thrive as a connected, resilient, and future-focused region.” says Jennifer McKinnon, CEO, Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce.
Next Steps
The Chamber will continue to engage on these key issues, including exploring federal partnerships to support housing initiatives, facilitating dialogue with developers on project viability, and advocating for improved cost control and decision-making at the regional level.
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Since 1971, the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce has been the largest business association serving Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Anmore, and Belcarra, now representing 1,300+ organizations from every sector. The Chamber works to foster economic development, provide connections and benefits, and influence public policy at all levels of government to ensure strong business and strong communities. The Tri-Cities Chamber is an active member of the BC and Canadian Chambers of Commerce.
For more information, contact:
Jennifer Mckinnon, Chief Executive Officer
Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce
ceo@tricitieschamber.com
604.468.6870