Andrew Mercier.

Andrew Mercier.

Langley City candidate runs on housing, commuting affordability

Andrew Mercier is a former NDP candidate and lawyer.

  • Jun. 18, 2018 12:00 a.m.

A former NDP candidate is running for Langley City council this fall, focused on “off the charts” housing costs and rising homelessness.

Andrew Mercier, a lawyer who sits on the UFV board of governors, said Langley City is changing and growing, becoming younger and more dynamic.

But that’s also making it harder to get by.

He opposes a possible TransLink mobility tax that he says would be unfair for local commuters and could cost up to $2,700 a year.

Committing to supportive housing is part of solving the homelessness crisis, he said.

“We need to focus on family-based zoning that ensures affordable three-plus bedroom condominium and townhouse units while preserving lower cost rentals,” Mercier said.

Mercier is a lawyer who ran for the NDP in the Langley riding in the 2013 provincial election, and managed the federal 2011 campaign.

He grew up in Langley and moved back to the community with his family after getting his law degree from Dalhousie.

Langley Advance