Longtime resident, business owner and volunteer Cindy-Lea Stephenson running for Maple Ridge council

Longtime Maple Ridge resident, small-business owner and community volunteer Cindy-Lea “Mumsy” Stephenson is running as an independent candidate for city council. Stephenson has lived in Maple Ridge for 48 years, owned businesses for 24 years and co-founded Once Upon a Tea Leaf with her daughter, Taryn Stephenson, in 2007. She has also volunteered with and served on the board of the Downtown Maple Ridge Business Improvement Association for 19 years.

Stephenson said her decision to run reflects both her love for the city and her experience navigating its challenges. Her tea shop was hit by serious vandalism in 2023 and 2024. In one incident, a smoke bomb covered the store and its contents in an orange substance and nearly forced the business to close. Separate incidents involving bear spray and smashed windows followed. She said she rebuilt while advocating for herself through the insurance and justice systems, despite an exhausting and uncertain process.

Her campaign focuses on safer, brighter neighbourhoods, a stronger local economy and thoughtful growth intended to benefit the entire community. Her theme, “For Every Corner of Maple Ridge,” refers to both the city’s geography and its people. Stephenson said she wants residents in every neighbourhood to feel seen and represented, including seniors, families, young people, business owners, people experiencing homelessness, longtime residents and those who have recently made Maple Ridge home. She said she would listen, ask difficult questions and work respectfully with others if elected.