Dear Editor,
I got involved and interested in politics because I became convinced that one person could truly impact their community and make a difference.
Politics should always be about the business of proactively and meaningfully dealing with community issues.
While we know and have all heard politicians intentionally or unintentionally passing the problem onto someone or another body, these are not leaders. A true leader sees an issue facing the community and says what we can do. A true leader does not make excuses for why they can’t take action on a pressing issue.
I am talking today about Langley council and youth homelessness. According to the Metro Vancouver Homeless Count report released on July 31, we have the third highest youth homeless in the region, but we are the only municipality that does not have a youth shelter.
Aldergrove Neighbourhood Services is asking for a small amount to help establish a two-year trial three- bed facility to prove the need to the Ministry of Children and Family Development.
Despite several efforts by ANS to prove the need for this facility the municipality refused to offer much support. I have personally asked members of councils to at least advocate to higher levels of government to support the creation of a youth shelter in Langley.
The community I grew up in and love is one that cares for those around them. City council’s lack of action is not only disappointing but disheartening.
I am saddened to have to ask this question, but will the death of one of our young people on the streets of Langley be what forces council to take real action?
Todd Hauptman, Langley