with my nephew honouring west vancouver veterans
35+ years in West Vancouver
Why I'm running
From concerned resident to community advocate.
Fifteen years ago, my concerns about the Grosvenor redevelopment in Ambleside led me to become more involved in municipal affairs.
Like many residents, I supported redeveloping the 1300 block of Marine Drive. However, I believed the proposed height and density did not fit the scale of Ambleside Village and threatened its character. I participated in the public consultation process believing residents could help shape a better outcome. Instead, I came away concerned by a process that felt divisive and left many residents feeling unheard.
Concern about that major waterfront development led to a broader interest in how West Vancouver Council makes decisions – and how well those decisions reflect the interests and priorities of residents.
Since then, I have advocated for:
- greater transparency
- meaningful public engagement
- community-informed planning that preserves our community's unique character and liveability
I'm running because I've learned that real change requires more than advocacy from the sidelines. It requires a seat at the Council table.
My background
A long-time West Vancouver resident
I’m Melinda Slater and I’ve lived on the North Shore all my life—the last 35 years in West Vancouver. I live next door to the Keith Road property where my father grew up during the Great Depression. It was a time before there was a bridge to the city, when West Vancouver was a much less affluent community.
A great deal has changed since then, but the qualities that have long made West Vancouver a special place to build a life—its spectacular setting, connection to nature, lovely neighbourhoods and sense of community—continue to attract people today. These qualities are why I chose to make West Vancouver my home.
Professional Experience
Before retiring 10 years ago, I worked in payroll and human resources in the private sector. Earlier, I worked in customer service within the financial services industry. Those roles reinforced for me the importance of:
- accuracy
- listening carefully
- treating people fairly and respectfully
Community Involvement
Retirement has given me the opportunity to become more actively involved in community affairs. I am a long-time member of the Ambleside & Dundarave Residents Association and most recently served as Vice-President. I am currently on leave from its Board of Directors while seeking election to Council.
I am also a member of a variety of local organizations concerned with West Vancouver’s history, environment, and community life, including:
- West Vancouver Historical Society
- Royal Canadian Legion
- West Vancouver Streamkeepers
- West Vancouver Seniors' Activity Centre
- Old Growth Conservancy Society
- West Vancouver Memorial Library
An Engaged Resident’s Perspective
I understand the time and effort residents invest when they participate in municipal processes. I also understand the frustration they experience when legitimate questions go unanswered. I have demonstrated that I am willing to examine the evidence, ask difficult questions and speak up when concerns are not being adequately addressed.
These qualities have guided my involvement in our community, and they are the same qualities I would bring to serving residents on Council.
“Better decisions start with better questions, and residents deserve to hear the answers.”