Former Vancouver Councillor & Mayoral candidate Colleen Hardwick Endorses Charter for Better Local Government
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Growing coalition of mayoral candidates commits to governance reform, greater accountability and refusing additional Metro Vancouver compensation
NEW WESTMINSTER / RICHMOND (July 22, 2026) – Former Vancouver City Councillor and current TEAM for a Livable Vancouver mayoral candidate Colleen Hardwick has signed the Charter for Better Local Government, becoming the latest municipal leader to support the growing initiative aimed at strengthening transparency, accountability and public trust in local government across British Columbia.
Hardwick joins Kirk LaPointe, the current mayoral candidate in West Vancouver, along with a growing number of elected officials and mayoral candidates who have endorsed the Charter.
New Westminster Councillor Daniel Fontaine, one of the Charter's co-founders, said Hardwick's endorsement demonstrates that the initiative continues to build momentum throughout Metro Vancouver and beyond.
"Colleen Hardwick's support sends a strong message that people from different communities - and different political backgrounds - share a common belief that local government can be more transparent, more accountable and more responsive to residents."
Richmond Councillor Kash Heed, who also helped launch the Charter, said the initiative is about restoring confidence in local government.
"Residents expect municipal governments to listen, to be accountable for the decisions they make and to spend public money responsibly. The Charter isn't about politics - it's about strengthening local democracy and ensuring residents have greater confidence in how their communities are governed."
Hardwick said she was pleased to support an initiative focused on improving local government across British Columbia.
"Healthy communities depend on healthy local government. The Charter promotes principles that encourage transparency, accountability and better decision-making - values that benefit every municipality."
The Charter for Better Local Government outlines a series of practical principles designed to strengthen municipal governance, including:
Greater transparency and accountability.
Meaningful public engagement.
Responsible financial stewardship.
Respect for local decision-making.
Strong governance practices that build public trust.
Fontaine said support for the Charter continues to grow as more municipal leaders recognize the importance of strengthening public confidence in local government.
"We're encouraged by the growing interest we're seeing from across British Columbia. This initiative isn't about one municipality or one political organization. It's about promoting good governance and ensuring local governments remain accountable to the people they serve."
Residents interested in learning more about the Charter or adding their support can visit:
