Richard Jae Huneault

Hello Port Alberni! This will be my 3rd time throwing my hat into the ring. Please reach out to me if you wish to ask me question or dive deeper into topics, OR especially if you wish to share what you believe is important for your representatives to know and be aware of!

I'm running for Port Alberni City Council because I believe in public service. I moved to Port Alberni in 2019 to be closer to family and to build a life in a smaller community. I've always been politically active, volunteering for candidates from different political parties, but I believe municipal government should be about representing the community, not a political party. I intend to remain independent and make decisions based on what I believe is best for Port Alberni.

I've worked for several small businesses in the Uptown area and currently work three jobs. I'm also an elected union representative with the BC General Workers Union. Outside of work, I've volunteered with local charitable and food-security efforts, including Shelter Farm and Bread of Life, and volunteered with the Salvation Army. I also have Coordinated a charity effort called Pumpkin Pickup.

I'm running because I believe I have something valuable to contribute to Council. A willingness to listen, learn, ask difficult questions, and bring information back to residents in a way they can actually understand. I'm not going to pretend to be an expert in every aspect of municipal government. I believe a good councillor needs to be able to work with City staff and professionals, understand the information they're providing, challenge it when appropriate, and then make informed decisions on behalf of the people they represent.

I want a City Hall that is transparent, accessible and accountable. An economy where local businesses can succeed and Port Alberni can diversify beyond dependence on a single industry and housing that is attainable for people who are working to build a future here. I my self face many of the same challenges my generation and younger generation and new families face in our community and around the country.

I don't want to use public office to advance a personal agenda, a political career or private interests. I want to serve my community, represent people who don't always feel heard, and help make Port Alberni a place where people can build a life and a future.