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Reposted by Samantha Agtarap

City of Port Moody @cityofportmoody.bsky.social · 12h

Voting by mail for mayor, councillors, and school trustees in Port Moody’s 2026 General Local Election is an option for all qualified Port Moody residents and non-resident property electors – and tomorrow, Friday, October 9, is the last day to apply! Info: portmoody.ca/mailballot

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Reposted by Samantha Agtarap

City of Port Moody @cityofportmoody.bsky.social · 07/10/2026

🗳️Today, Wednesday October 7, is your first chance to vote in advance. Cast your ballot from 8am-8pm in the Wellness Room at the Port Moody Recreation Complex (300 Ioco Rd). Info: portmoody.ca/vote.

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 06/10/2026

Samantha’s expertise has been a benefit to our discussions, and it would be a pleasure to continue working with her. I am happy to endorse Samantha Agtarap for Port Moody Council." Meghan Lahti, Mayor of Port Moody /end

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 06/10/2026

Endorsement: "I have enjoyed working with Samantha over this past term. She always comes to the table with an intelligent and well-thought-out perspective and is always able to contribute in a positive way. /1

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Reposted by Samantha Agtarap

City of Port Moody @cityofportmoody.bsky.social · 06/10/2026

Vote at our first advance voting opportunity happening tomorrow, Wednesday, October 7. Cast your vote in the Wellness Room at the Port Moody Rec Complex (300 Ioco Rd) between 8am–8pm. Find everything you need to know about Port Moody’s 2026 General Local Election at portmoody.ca/vote.

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Reposted by Samantha Agtarap

Andrew Kurjata @akurjata.ca · 06/10/2026

First past the post not beating the allegations www.cbc.ca/news/canada/...

Polls have consistently shown that sovereignty is a low priority of Quebecers, with one Léger poll showing that 70 per cent of Quebecers would not support separating from Canada.
But the electoral math told a different story.
In a a remarkable feat made possible by the first-past-the-post electoral system, the PQ formed a minority government with as little as 28 per cent of the popular vote - the lowest voter share to achieve that in Quebec's history, and one that is certain to add fuel to the debate about electoral reform.

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 05/10/2026

Solutions are more than an “easy to say” slogan and require an understanding of a city’s interconnected and nuanced challenges and systems. Don’t be fooled. For more nuance than a slogan, read: buff.ly/OQH7s6v /end

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 05/10/2026

Saying you’ll cut taxes in half is easy to say when you don’t understand the operating budget, what it pays for, or how it relates to the taxes individual property owners pay. /6

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 05/10/2026

Additionally, provincial legislation caps the amount of tax the city can collect from some portion of these properties. And while the grant was intended to make up the difference, it has not kept up, and Port Moody and other port communities are subsidizing ports for the benefit of all Canadians. /5

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 05/10/2026

Currently, the assessed value of residential properties make up 88% of the total assessed value but pay 67% of the taxes. The loss of major industries like Flavelle Mill and utility Burrard Thermal greatly impacted city revenue. /4

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 05/10/2026

So the denominator- the number of taxpayers that the tax is distributed across has increased along with our operating budget. That is why taxes have only increased by an average of 20%. You may also hear candidates promise to shift the burden from homeowners to other tax classes. /3

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 05/10/2026

Budget increases are largely due to rising labour and material costs. Operating budget increases don’t directly correlate to property taxes because, as we grow, more businesses and people come here to live and contribute to our economy. /2

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 05/10/2026

During election campaigns, you’ll hear many slogans that sound good but aren’t true or actionable. Here’s one: over the last 4 years, taxes have increased 28 to 30%. Let’s examine that claim. Over the past 4 years, the city’s operating budget has increased by 28%. /1

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 04/10/2026

I’ve seen Sam make a genuine effort to listen to community members, understand different perspectives, & balance those views with the practical realities of making sound decisions for the city. I’m proud to support her re-election & grateful for her commitment to Port Moody’s long-term well-being."

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 04/10/2026

She brings that same measured and reasoned perspective to local government. At a time when promises are sometimes made without practical plans in place and public debate can be driven by clickbait-style tactics, ... /3

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 04/10/2026

I’ve had the opportunity to see her thoughtful, collaborative approach firsthand. As a fellow small-business owner, Sam understands both the opportunities and practical challenges facing our community. /2

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 04/10/2026

I'm proud to share this endorsement from a local business leader and owner of Caffé Divano and Gabi & Jules, Lisa Beecroft: "As a business and property owner in the city—and having worked closely with Sam on Shop Local Port Moody for many years— /1

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Reposted by Samantha Agtarap

Elections BC @electionsbc.bsky.social · 03/10/2026

Candidate nominations for the 2026 Provincial General Election closed at 1 p.m. today. We are now reviewing all nominations received to ensure they meet the requirements set out in the Election Act. The most current list of candidates is available at elections.bc.ca/candidates..

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 03/10/2026

...only the municipality that has that casino gets that revenue. Having Samantha on council allows us to learn and see inequalities that exist in our systems and could be addressed to help ensure fairness for all, while retaining important financial sustainability in Port Moody." Jeff Summers /end

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 03/10/2026

She saw the challenges with BC Hydro, and their decommissioning of Burrard Thermal, and how their delayed decommissioning greatly hurts our tax base. Or, seeing how the revenues from casinos/gambling are not shared with surrounding municipalities; /2

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 03/10/2026

More references and endorsements I'm grateful to have received. "Samantha has a unique ability to see opportunities for financial inequality that are hurting Port Moody in a way that no other candidate or council member has ever. /1

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Reposted by Samantha Agtarap

Shannon Waters @sobittersosweet.bsky.social · 01/10/2026

David Eby promises to cut BC gas taxes by 10c/L and to give the BC Utilities Commission authority to crack down on price gouging at the pump Just a reminder: the fuel price gap was identified in 2019. The government's reaction since then has basically been 🤷 #bcpoli

news.gov.bc.ca

Minister’s statement on BC Utilities Commission's gas prices investigation

Bruce Ralston, Minister of Jobs, Trade and Technology, has issued the following statement on the BC Utilities Commission’s investigation into gas prices:

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Reposted by Samantha Agtarap

City of Port Moody @cityofportmoody.bsky.social · 01/10/2026

🗳️Vote by mail or vote in person – there are lots of ways to cast your ballot in Port Moody’s 2026 General Local and School Board Election, happening on Saturday, October 17, 2026. Find more information: f.mtr.cool/w9bt3s7yoe

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Reposted by Samantha Agtarap

City of Port Moody @cityofportmoody.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

In Port Moody, Every Child Matters flags have been raised at civic facilities and will remain in place through October 6. Tonight, the dome at City Hall will be lit up in orange, symbolizing remembrance, solidarity, and our commitment to advancing truth, healing, and respect.

Three flags flying outside of Port Moody City Hall

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

If you need emotional or crisis support, contact the 24-Hour National Residential School Crisis Line at 1-866-925-4419 #NationalDayforTruthandReconciliation #EveryChildMatters /end

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

There is also an event at Noons Creek Hatchery at 11 am. I encourage everyone to either participate or explore the resources on the City's website. The library also has a collection of resources: buff.ly/QA1LX48 Let's build a shared future, together. /3

buff.ly

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation | Port Moody Public Library

Translate

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

...projects such as In the Presence of Ancestors, recognition of significant days and cultural events, and cultural safety training. Today, the City is hosting a community Blanket Exercise - a powerful and immersive learning experience that explores the history of First Nations in Canada. /2

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

Today, on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, I am reflecting on our city's commitment to reconciliation. In Port Moody, we are actively doing this work by building relationships with səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) & kʷikʷəƛ̓əm (Kwikwetlem) Nations and advancing reconciliation through .../1

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

Samantha brings both the technical knowledge to understand complex challenges and the collaborative mindset needed to find workable solutions. She is respectful, pragmatic, and genuinely committed to making decisions that serve Port Moody as a whole. ~Jeannette Jackson, Port Moody resident /end

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

What I particularly value about Samantha is her practical approach to the issues that matter most to residents. As Port Moody continues to grow and evolve, we need leaders who keep essential infrastructure, reliable services, responsible planning, and long-term community needs top of mind. /3

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

She understands that good governance isn’t about ideology or always getting your own way — it’s about listening, weighing different perspectives, and being willing to compromise to reach decisions that are in the best interests of the community. /2

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

Endorsement: I’m proud to endorse Samantha Agtarap for Port Moody Council. Samantha brings a thoughtful and respectful approach to public service, grounded in an impressive background in engineering, climate, and public policy. /1

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

Port Moody is a special place: a small city with distinct neighbourhoods, a strong connection to nature and parks, and a community that cares deeply about their city. Here are my key priorities (in 5 slides). Learn more at sam4pomo.ca

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Reposted by Samantha Agtarap

City of Port Moody @cityofportmoody.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

In October, B.C. residents will be voting in two elections – one municipal election (local government) and one provincial election. More info:: www.portmoody.ca/news-and-notices/p…

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Reposted by Samantha Agtarap

City of Port Moody @cityofportmoody.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

Look for a voter info package in your mailbox with everything you need to know about Port Moody’s 2026 General Local Election, including ways to vote, key dates, declared candidates for mayor, councillors, and school trustees, and where to find results. Find info at portmoody.ca/vote

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 27/09/2026

Have researchers ever measured a human’s cortisol before and after cat cuddles? Especially if that cat is purring? Cat tax ⬇️

The face of a sleeping orange cat with a splash of white on her nose.

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

...Port Moody greatly benefits from this type of steady leadership. I know Samantha will continue to serve Port Moody with integrity, and she has my vote." Daphne Herberts, Community volunteer & civic advocate, former educator, Port Moody small business owner #endoresement

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

...the impact of these decisions on current and future residents of our city. A strong advocate for public libraries, well planned community growth, and accessible transportation choices, Samantha is committed to making this a healthier, more connected community. .../2

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

"I am pleased to endorse Councillor Samantha Agtarap for re-election to Port Moody City Council. Samantha is a thoughtful leader who values data-driven research to help navigate council discussions and ultimately council recommendations. She asks important questions and carefully considers .../1

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

Vote! Details at the link. 🗳️

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

If you haven’t done this yet, I highly recommend this exercise.

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

I am grateful to have received these kind words from Colleen van Niekerk, Port Moody resident & writer (you can find her excellent book at the library).

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

Endorsements are like references on your resume. "Samantha’s evidence-based approach to dealing with a host of different local issues, coupled with her strong moral compass and problem-solving approach has been refreshing to see on council." #endoresment

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

So who is responsible? Sometimes responsibilities overlap, but when we understand the division of power, we can advocate more effectively. Let's keep working for better communication and coordination at all levels. #Sam4Pomo

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

Council has met with school district reps to communicate our forecast population growth with school infrastructure planning. Healthcare: I've advocated for an MRI, & expanded use of Eagle Ridge Hospital. Council has met with Fraser Health leaders, but any plans on their side is years out. /3

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

I agree we need streamlined planning for the future, but the unfortunate fact is that planning is often siloed. For example: Schools: The funding model for new schools ("bums in seats") means capital funding is only prioritized when enrollment has overwhelmed existing capacity. /2

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Samantha Agtarap @sam4pomo.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

Who does what? It's a common question I hear. Lately, I've heard concerns that we are outgrowing our local infrastructure. When I ask for specifics, the answer is almost always schools and the hospital. Here's the catch: These are not city responsibilities. /1

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