Former Maple Ridge Chamber of Commerce president Jerry Kok has announced he will run for mayor.
Kok is the first to announce a challenge to incumbent Maple Ridge Mayor Dan Ruimy in the Oct. 17 local elections.
Kok is a businessman, general manager of the Driving Unlimited Academy, and said he wants to help entrepreneurs in Maple Ridge thrive.
“I’m known in the community, and I’m passionate about the business community and supporting the businesses that are here,” he said.
Kok said local shops are seeing rising costs during an economic downturn, and the city could assist them with lower tax increases.
Kok served most of four years as the chamber president, overseeing the organization during a time of resurgence. He has also been chair of the city’s economic development committee and transportation advisory committee, while also serving on the City of Pitt Meadows economic development advisory committee.
His father was an entrepreneur, as Bill Kok built the original Black Sheep Pub and Bistro in 1979, and then moved into real estate. Business is in his blood.
“My vision is always to be that voice for business,” he said.
A big local issue is the coming vote on borrowing up to $393 million for new recreation projects, including arenas, an aquatic centre, and redeveloping the golf course.
Kok is against the plan to repurpose the golf course.
“I am opposed to changing that to a community park, and putting baseball fields there,” he said. “The community hasn’t been really listened to. People just don’t want that changed.”
He has a personal connection to the course – his parents played golf there for decades, and his father is memorialized on a dogwood tree near the entrance. His mother Ria decorates it every Christmas. He said it’s a great course for seniors and those wanting a shorter round.
“My mom still plays there. She’s going to be 86 this year.”
Kok also questions borrowing almost $400 million.
“I’m concerned about the price, especially in this economy,” he said. “The numbers are being thrown around casually.”
Already, he said, the city has been running high property tax rates, and they contribute to the city being unaffordable for some homeowners and businesses.
“Taxes are literally driving people out of the community.”
Maple Ridge has been his home for more than 45 years – Kok attended the original Yennadon School, and played minor hockey and soccer here. He and his wife Marnie have raised their children here.
“This campaign is about building a city that works for businesses, for families, for seniors, and for the next generation,” he said. “It is about smart growth, safer streets, and real opportunities right here at home, while still preserving the history and character that make Maple Ridge unique.”
Kok is planning to officially launch his mayoral campaign on July 13 at the Eagles Hall (23461 132 Ave.), at 7 p.m.
For more information see jerrykok.ca.