Kelly Velonis will once again be the Liberal candidate for Chilliwack-Hope in the upcoming federal election.
Although she told The Progress back in December and as recently as Aug. 5 that she would not be running, things changed.
“I had previously announced I wouldn’t run again mostly because of my professional commitments during the pandemic,” Velonis explained in a release.
Since Canada appeared to be rounding the corner, Velonis decided it was time to step up, and her over-arching goal in seeking the MP seat will be to help the community recover and move forward.
Both Chilliwack and Hope are “vibrant and evolving communities,” she said “and it’s time that view be reflected in Ottawa.”
Professionally, Velonis was program manager for YMCA of Greater Vancouver before most recently embarking on a position improving the lives of local seniors as the executive director for the Chilliwack & District Seniors.
Velonis became the fourth candidate to declare intentions to run in Chilliwack-Hope.
Mark Strahl, the incumbent for the riding, is running again for the Conservative Party of Canada.
Rob Bogunovic is a candidate for the People’s Party of Canada, while DJ Pohl will be running for the NDP, and was the first candidate to announce a run in the 2021 election.
Velonis said she understands the unique needs of Chilliwack-Hope in a post pandemic era and it’s why she is running again.
Chilliwack-Hope Riding vice-chair Kevin Standeven confirmed the acclamation announcement from the riding association.
“We are grateful that Kelly has decided to once again be Chilliwack-Hope’s Liberal candidate in this election.
“Her passion for our community and history of taking action to improve the lives of others are what our party is all about,” Standeven said.
Velonis thanked supporters for the support, and noted she is proud of the work the Liberal party has accomplished while keeping Canadians safe, including the many COVID relief programs.
Velonis is a wife, and mother, who has lived in Chilliwack most of her life, and is dedicated to community.
She pledges to be “the Chilliwack-Hope voice in Ottawa, not Ottawa’s voice to Chilliwack-Hope.”
Velonis has been a seasoned advocate for change and known for her bold support of diversity, inclusion and building strong communities.
“I’m optimistic about our future and understand what it will take to build a more resilient community.
“I know that together we can build a healthier, safer, greener, and more competitive community.” said Velonis.