Independent candidate Marshall Austin seeks Langley City school trustee seat

Independent candidate Marshall Austin is seeking a school trustee position in Langley City, saying he wants to give back after watching his children grow up and attend school there. He said he hopes to provide guidance and leadership for young people.

Austin, a director with Pattison Food Group responsible for large-scale projects, previously ran for trustee in 2018. He stepped away from politics in 2022 after his daughter died of cancer. She had worked as an education assistant in the Surrey School District, and Austin said his campaign is part of her legacy.

He said he will advocate for new schools and classroom supports while making responsible decisions for taxpayers. Mental health and transparent governance are among his priorities. Two of the Langley School District’s seven trustees are elected in the City. Austin said the City must not be overlooked as it grows and densifies, even as rapid growth in the Township has brought portables, new schools and school additions.

Eligible Langley City voters may vote in advance on Oct. 6, 7, 8 and 14; on General Voting Day, Oct. 17, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; or by mail ballot. Mail ballots must be requested from the chief electoral officer and returned by Oct. 17. Voting locations, eligibility details and mail-ballot applications are available at www.langleycity.ca/city-hall/local-election.