Sam Atwal

Serving on council really comes down to straightforward, practical work: managing our financial plans responsibly, looking after what we already own, and making sure decisions respect the people paying the bills.

At the heart of it, I’m running because of my daughters, and because of all our kids growing up here. Too often I hear the same story: kids graduate, head off for school or training, and never come back because they can’t build a life here. I want to help build something different for Port Alberni. I want a community with dependable infrastructure, active parks, solid family-wage jobs, and vibrant local businesses, so when our kids grow up, staying right here in the Valley is a real, exciting choice, not an afterthought.

I’m stepping forward because I’ve done this work before, and I enjoy rolling up my sleeves to solve problems.

Before getting into project consulting, I spent years commuting for shifts working on the tools as a plant operator in the oil sands, later helping modernize operations in the coal mines. I’ve sat at executive tables, worked alongside unions, and managed large capital budgets. Heavy industry teaches you how to dig into a spreadsheet line by line, keep major projects on schedule, and listen closely to the people doing the heavy lifting on the floor.

I brought that same approach to the four years I served as an elected municipal councillor.

Because of that background, I can step in without a steep learning curve and bring outside knowledge to make things better for Port Alberni and how a council can deliver tangible results. It also taught me the value of steady, preventative maintenance. Taking care of underground pipes, planning proper road resurfacing, and investing in our community facilities protects what we own and saves taxpayers money over time. Keeping life affordable here takes long-term planning, doing what’s right, and looking for creative options before asking households for more.

Since moving to Port Alberni, our family has felt genuinely welcomed, and jumping in locally felt natural. I sit alongside First Nations, labour, and local operators with the Alberni Valley Forestry Coalition to support our resource sector, volunteer with Rotary, schools, fundraisers, and spend time listening to the business owners who keep our town vibrant. I’ve been proving my work ethic by meeting with people over the past few months, that won’t stop when I’m on council. I am a big believer in engaging with the people who will be affected by changes from council directives to make strong, informed decisions.

Port Alberni has great momentum and an incredible heart. I’m offering four years of proven council experience, a solid work ethic, and a practical approach to building a strong future our kids will want to be part of.