Briefing on the Federal Electoral District of Fleetwood—Port Kells

The federal electoral district of Fleetwood—Port Kells is located in the western Canadian province of British Columbia. This district covers a vast area of land from the Fraser River on the south to Golden Ears Provincial Park on the north, including the towns of Fleetwood and Port Kells.

Population centres

The district of Fleetwood—Port Kells is a diverse community with significant population centres like Surrey, Langley, and Pitt Meadows. Surrey is the second-largest city in British Columbia and has a vibrant cultural scene, including the Surrey International Film Festival and Surrey Fusion Festival. Langley is famous for its cultural heritage, agricultural roots, and has a significant horse racing industry. Meanwhile, Pitt Meadows is known for its natural beauty, bird watching, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation activities.

Issues and events

One of the significant issues in Fleetwood—Port Kells was the COVID-19 pandemic, which had a massive impact on the community. Businesses struggled to stay afloat, while students and teachers adapted to new ways of learning. The district also dealt with the issue of homelessness, with many community organizations trying to help vulnerable members of the population.

In 2021, the Fraser Valley Regional District was hit by a devastating heatwave, where residents had to cope with extreme temperatures without air conditioning. The heatwave led to several deaths, and communities came together to support each other during this trying time.

Economy

Fleetwood—Port Kells is home to many significant industries, such as agriculture, transportation, and manufacturing. The district is also home to Canada's largest private air cargo company, UPS Canada. Another major employer in the community is the Coast Mountain Bus Company, which provides public transportation services for Metro Vancouver. In 2021, the district experienced steady economic growth, with some businesses adapting to new ways of operating during the pandemic.

Important landmarks

Fleetwood—Port Kells has many important landmarks, including the Surrey Arts Centre, which hosts a variety of shows and exhibitions throughout the year. Another must-visit location is the Fort Langley National Historic Site, which dates back to the 19th century and offers a glimpse into Canadian history. Meanwhile, Golden Ears Provincial Park is a natural beauty spot offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning views of the mountains.

Arts and culture

Fleetwood—Port Kells is a diverse community with a rich cultural scene. The Surrey International Film Festival is an annual event that celebrates cinema from around the world, while the Surrey Fusion Festival brings together the music, dance, and food of different cultures. The district is also home to the Surrey Art Gallery, which features contemporary art by artists from across Canada and beyond.

Electoral issues

During the 2021 federal election in Fleetwood—Port Kells, the two main issues were the economy and healthcare. Many residents were concerned about the impact of the pandemic on the local economy, and how the government planned to provide support for businesses and individuals who were struggling. Healthcare was also a significant concern, with many residents calling for increased funding for hospitals and clinics.

Community organizations

Fleetwood—Port Kells is home to many community organizations that provide support and resources to individuals and families in need. These organizations include the Surrey Food Bank, which provides nutritious meals for those unable to afford them, and the Langley Meals on Wheels program, which delivers hot meals to seniors and individuals with disabilities. Another important organization is the Surrey Women's Centre, which offers assistance and support to women and children who have experienced domestic violence.

Multicultural groups

Fleetwood—Port Kells has a diverse population, and many multicultural groups are active in the community. The Punjabi Market Association is an organization representing Punjabi businesses and culture in the district, while the Surrey Filipino Canadian Society promotes the culture and traditions of the Filipino community. Meanwhile, the Langley Chinese Association is dedicated to preserving and promoting Chinese culture in the region.

In conclusion, Fleetwood—Port Kells is a dynamic and diverse community with a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant economy. The district has faced many challenges in recent years, including the COVID-19 pandemic and extreme weather events, but residents and community organizations have come together to support each other during these times. With its varied population centres, stunning natural beauty, and diverse cultural scene, Fleetwood—Port Kells is a fascinating place to visit and explore.