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FVRD candidate: Orion Engar

Fraser Valley Regional District: Engar, Orion – Director, Area E: Engar brings passion to protect Chilliwack River Valley
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Orion Engar

I count myself lucky to be among the residents that call the beautiful Chilliwack River Valley home, and having personally resided in this location amidst its pristine beauty and bountiful resources within a caring community for the past 34 years, I feel passionate about continuing to preserve what makes it so special. Having spent some of my younger years travelling across the globe, I can confidently say this area is one of the most spectacular worldwide, and am grateful at having been able to raise my four children, three now with children of their own, in such a special place.

First let me say how excited I am to be considered as your valley representative, and second how humbled I am by the support I have been shown thus far. As an active member of our community, I have developed and contributed to many initiatives that continue to work for positive outcomes for the valley and its residents. Many of you will likely remember my face from the 'Rally for the Valley' movement, which pushed for negotiating limitations on controversial mining practices allowed over valley water aquifers.

Further to my involvement in ensuring our valley’s ongoing sustainability and preservation for future generations, I have been an active participant in the formation of our Official Community Plan (which provides a longer term vision for the community), a past member of Citizens on Patrol (looking out for safety and fire hazards within the valley), and am currently the Vice President of the Chilliwack River Valley Ratepayers Association. I have been proud to lead several volunteer initiatives taking a stand for the valley and its citizens.

Existing in balance with my desire to do what is best for the environment and our community, is my first hand understanding of the challenges businesses face. After 27 years as a small business owner (now semi-retired), previously manufacturing and selling my own line of products into 500 stores across Canada, self-publishing technical manuals, and teaching UFV and BCIT business students, I am keenly aware of business concerns and what it takes to successfully resolve them in today’s world. I feel it is of great importance that we ensure a sustainable economy, protect the environment for future generations, and provide job creation via responsible growth.

As our area E faces future growth and challenges, I will listen to your concerns and continue to work with our community and all levels of government, so that the beautiful Chilliwack River Valley we share is cared for responsibly and ethically, and its people--whether they be passing through or staying for a lifetime-- will be inspired and enriched. Let us stand strong together!