Council Update - December 2024
Check out some of the important work being done by Abbotsford City Council over the past few weeks in the December 2024 Council Update.
Mayor and Council are actively involved in our community and they represent the City at local events, openings, tours, and meetings with senior levels of government and other stakeholders. As your elected representatives, Council also sets policy and governance direction for the growth and development of our community. View some of the important work being done by your City Council on this webpage, which includes Council Briefs, Blogs as well as photos of Council out and about in our city!
Council Blogs share some of the important work Council is doing in the community including key initiatives and investment announcements, significant events and notable meetings.
Council Briefs are posted monthly and share highlights from recent Council Meetings.
December 19, 2024 - Operation Red Nose
Mayor Siemens, AbbyPD Chief Watson and Sergeant Walker volunteered for this year’s Operation Red Nose to help keep our roads safe by giving holiday revelers a ride home after a night out.
December 18, 2024 - Crystal Gala cheque presentation
The Crystal Gala Foundation presented a cheque for $619,600 to the Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation to go towards the purchase of a new MRI machine and software to detect breast cancer.
December 14, 2024 - Abbotsford Community Music School 40th Anniversary Christmas Concert
Deputy Mayor Chahal gave greetings from the City and thanked the school for bringing music into the lives of so many people.
December 13, 2024 - Salvation Army Community Christmas Luncheon
Mayor Siemens and his wife Kelly volunteered at the Salvation Army’s Community Christmas Luncheon to help serve people in need in our community.
December 5, 2024 - Mayor’s Christmas Card Contest prize presentation
Mayor’s Christmas Card Contest Grade 1 honourable mention Dana dropped by Mayor Siemens’ office to pick up her gift package after being unable to attend the award presentation on Dec. 3.
December 4, 2024 - Abbotsford Police Department reserve constables graduation ceremony
Mayor Siemens congratulated the 2024 class of graduates of the Abbotsford Police Department’s reserve constable program.
December 3, 2024 – Mayor’s Christmas Card Contest
Congratulations to Grade 1 student Evie, winner of the 2024 Mayor's Christmas Card Contest. There were a record 1,041 submissions this year, and the top entries from kindergarten to Grade 5 can be viewed at www.abbotsford.ca/christmascard2024.
November 29, 2024 - Very Merry Mango Market
Mayor Siemens and his wife Kelly attended the opening of the three-day Very Merry Mango Market, featuring more than 100 local artisans, plus workshops and food trucks.
November 28, 2024 - Ravine Park Hatchery tour
Mayor Siemens and Councillors Gibson and Loewen toured the Ravine Park Hatchery and learned about its history, the issues it faces and the important role it plays in protecting and growing the salmon population in Abbotsford.
November 28, 2024 - It's a Wonderful Breakfast
Mayor Siemens and Councillor Gibson attended the It’s a Wonderful Breakfast charity event by the Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation, supporting youth and children receiving care at Abbotsford Regional Hospital.
November 27, 2024 - Pitt Meadows Agricultural Roundtable
Mayor Siemens met with mayors, councillors and staff from Pitt Meadows, Chilliwack, Langley Township, Maple Ridge, Mission, Richmond and Surrey to discuss challenges and opportunities facing the agriculture sector.
November 26, 2024 – Legion leadership thanks City staff for Remembrance Day support
Royal Canadian Legion Abbotsford Branch 15 president Ross Craddock and vice-president Kelly Watson joined City Council on Tuesday, Nov. 26 to thank City staff for supporting a successful Remembrance Day ceremony this year.
November 23, 2024 - Winter Jubilee
Mayor Siemens helped light the tree with Santa and Mrs. Claus to officially kick off the holiday season in Abbotsford.
November 22, 2024 - Communitas 50th Anniversary
Communitas marked 50 years of providing mental health supports and services to people of all abilities in Abbotsford and beyond. Mayor Siemens thanked Communitas for their work and leadership, and stressed the importance of facing challenges with hope and positivity.
November 21, 2024 - CityStudio Hubbub 14
The 14th CityStudio Hubbub was held alongside this year’s Involve Symposium. Congratulations to CityStudio Team Award winner, “It Starts with Hello,” and People’s Choice Award winner, “Adventure Playground.”
November 21, 2024 - Involve Symposium
Sustainability was the theme of this year’s Involve Symposium, featuring speakers, workshops and networking opportunities. Mayor Siemens was there to help open the event by discussing some of the City’s sustainability practices.
November 15, 2024 - TEDxAbbotsford 2024
The theme of TEDxAbbotsford 2024 was “The Power of Gratitude” and Deputy Mayor Chahal helped kick off the event by sharing some of the things that she is grateful for in her daily life.
November 14, 2024 - 28th Annual Abbotsford Business Excellence Awards
Mayor Siemens gave greetings on behalf of the City and spoke about the importance of our local business community.
November 13, 2024 - Operation Red Nose launch
The national Operation Red Nose campaign held its BC launch in Abbotsford, including remarks by Mayor Siemens.
November 11, 2024 - Remembrance Day
Mayor Siemens placed a wreath on the cenotaph in Thunderbird Square as part of the Remembrance Day ceremony.
November 7, 2024 - Archway Community Services Community Builders’ Awards
Mayor Siemens and Councillors Barkman, Chahal, Driessen, Gibson and Ross with Archway staff and board members.
November 6, 2024 – Take Our Kids to Work Day
Mayor Siemens gave a presentation to some staff members’ Grade 9 and 10 kids that covered his background, the various roles and functions of the City and some Abbotsford-related trivia.
November 5, 2024 - Canadian Home Builder’s Association Fraser Valley award presentation
The City of Abbotsford received the Industry Partner of the Year award from the Canadian Home Builder’s Association Fraser Valley in recognition of its partnership to deliver a series of educational workshops to building industry professionals on the BC Energy Step Code.
November 1, 2024 - Civic recognition award ceremony
Wrestler Jasmit Singh Phulka was the recipient of this year's Community Champion Achievement Award. Mayor Siemens and Councillors Loewen, Gibson, Chahal, Ross, Barkman and Warkentin congratulated him on the honour.
November 1, 2024 - Civic recognition award ceremony
This year’s Order of Abbotsford was presented to violinist Dr. Calvin Dyck, seen here with Mayor Siemens and Councillors Loewen, Gibson, Chahal, Ross, Barkman and Warkentin.
October 29, 2024 – BC Municipal Safety Association Awards presentation
The BC Municipal Safety Association awarded the City of Abbotsford its Health and Safety Stewardship Award and its Innovation Safety Solution Award in recognition of the City’s dedication to creating a safer and healthier workplace.
October 24, 2024 - BC Student Leadership Conference at Yale Secondary
Councillor Warkentin greeted the youths from across BC on behalf of the city and encouraged them to make the most of the weekend’s events.
October 22, 2024 - Abbotsford Youth Commission Youth Council event
Members of the Abbotsford Youth Commission Youth Council met with Mayor Siemens and Councillors Loewen, Gibson, Driessen, Ross, Chahal and Barkman for a collaboration event where they discussed city issues and got to know Mayor and Council.
October 17, 2024 - Learning Plus program at Abbotsford Recreation Centre
Mayor Siemens attended the Abbotsford Recreation Centre's 55+ Learning Plus program and gave an update on City Council's priorities and took questions from the audience.
October 9, 2024 - Crime is Toast Abbotsford Police Foundation fundraiser
The Abbotsford Police Foundation held its 10th annual Crime is Toast Breakfast to help raise money to support initiatives that not only reduce crime, but also build positive relationships.
October 8, 2024 - Abbotsford Youth Commission Youth Council
Councillor Loewen met with the Abbotsford Youth Commission Youth Council and gave a presentation on how local government works.
October 5, 2024 - Purple Lights Nights campaign launch
Mayor Siemens spoke on behalf of the City and was joined by Councillors Driessen, Gibson, Ross, Barkman and Chahal (not pictured). The campaign raises awareness of intimate partner violence.
October 4, 2024 - Inaugural Manufacturing Tour presented by the City and Chamber of Commerce
Councillor Ross got a close look at some equipment at RAD Torque Tools.
October 4, 2024 - Inaugural Manufacturing Tour presented by the City and Chamber of Commerce
Mayor Siemens addressed the tour participants during lunch at Chinook Helicopters.
October 4, 2024 - Inaugural Manufacturing Tour presented by the City and Chamber of Commerce
Councillors Loewen and Barkman took in the varieties of wood at Reimer Hardwood.
October 4, 2024 - Inaugural Manufacturing Tour presented by the City and Chamber of Commerce
Mayor Siemens and Councillors Ross and Driessen started their tour at BARR Plastics.
October 4, 2024 - Inaugural Manufacturing Tour presented by the City and Chamber of Commerce
Councillors Barkman and Loewen got an inside look at StructureCraft.
October 2, 2024 - Abbotsford Christian Leaders Network Luncheon
Mayor Siemens spoke about addressing challenges facing the City and the importance of the faith community and then took part in a Q-and-A moderated by ACLN Co-chair Ken Greter.
October 1, 2024 – PacificWest Conference
Mayor Siemens participated in a mayors’ panel on the future of real estate planning with Township of Langley Mayor Eric Woodward, Delta Mayor George Harvie, New Westminster Mayor Patrick Johnstone and West Vancouver Mayor Mark Sager.
September 30, 2024 - Stetís ímexstowx
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation event “Stetís ímexstowx” was held around the civic precinct, featuring educational activities honouring residential school survivors. Mayor Siemens and Councillors Barkman, Driessen, Gibson and Warkentin (not pictured) attended the opening ceremony.
September 28, 2024 - Smiles Through Seva Foundation annual Gala
Councillor Loewen addressed the crowd at the second annual Smiles Through Seva Foundation Gala. This year’s event supported the Starfish Pack Program providing food to local children in need.
September 28, 2024 – Horizon Equine Veterinary Clinic event
Mayor Siemens and his wife Kelly attended an appreciation event hosted by Horizon Equine Veterinary Clinic in thanks and recognition of their clients and supporters.
September 28, 2024 - JP74 Sport Abbotsford Combine
Local wrestling champ Jasmit Phulka helped young athletes test their skills at his inaugural JP74 Sport Abbotsford Combine at the UFV Athletic Centre. Mayor Siemens was there to help present awards to the top athletes and talk about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.
September 28, 2024 - Care For Women Walk/Run
The Care For Women Walk/Run supporting mothers in postpartum care in the Fraser Valley took place at Mill Lake Park. Mayor Siemens and Councillor Driessen participated in the event and the Mayor spoke about the importance of parenting and motherhood in society.
September 26, 2024 - Growing in Reconciliation: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Gathering
The Mennonite Central Committee hosted “Growing in Reconciliation: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Gathering” featuring remarks by former Lt. Gov. the Honourable Steven Point. Councillor Loewen greeted attendees on behalf of the City. Councillor Driessen was also at the event. (From left: MCC BC Executive Director Wayne Bremner, Honourable Steven Point, MCC coordinator on Indigenous Relations Bridget Findlay, Semá:th First Nation Councillor Chris Silver, Councillor Loewen)
September 24, 2024 - King Charles III Coronation Medal presentation
MLA de Jong presented the King Charles III Coronation Medal to former mayor George Peary for his years of public service and his significant contributions to the community as an educator and through his charity work.
September 24, 2024 - MEI groundbreaking ceremony
Mayor Siemens and Councillors Barkman, Gibson and Loewen attended a groundbreaking ceremony for Mennonite Educational Institute's new expansion.
September 21, 2024 - 39th Annual Mt. Lehman Fall Fair
Councillor Loewen helped kick off the festivities and Councillors Chahal and Gibson also joined in on the fun.
September 20, 2024 - Hallmark on the Park 25th Anniversary
Mayor Siemens attended the celebration, shared personal memories and thanked the Hallmark on the Park team for providing care and services to Abbotsford seniors for 25 years.
September 19, 2024 - Archway Community Services’ Welcome Day
Councillor Chahal greeted everyone and spoke about the importance and contributions of newcomers to our community.
September 14, 2024 - Fraser Valley Recovery Day
The inaugural Fraser Valley Recovery Day took place at Mill Lake Park, celebrating the strength and resilience of those who have triumphed over addictions. Mayor Siemens welcomed attendees and met with service providers with Councillor Gibson (not pictured).
September 13, 2024 - Taste of Abby Night Market
Mayor Siemens greeted everyone on behalf of the City and Councillors Ross and Warkentin joined in the festivities.
September 9, 2024 - Abbotsford Minor Baseball banner unveiling
The 13U Abbotsford Angels AA and AAA minor baseball teams unveiled their Western and National champion banners and Mayor Siemens and Councillor Barkman were there to honour the players and coaches.
September 5, 2024 – AbbyPD swearing-in ceremony
AbbyPD held a swearing-in ceremony for its newest members, Constables Taylor Barker, Karissa Comeau, Talus Swanberg and Harmanjot Lally. Mayor Siemens was there to welcome the new recruits on behalf of the City and Police Board.
August 29, 2024 - Primrose Gardens Labour Day event
Mayor Siemens attended a Labour Day event at Primrose Gardens where he spoke about his job as Mayor of Abbotsford and reflected on the things he's learned and experienced during his term so far. He also took questions from the audience.
August 26, 2024 - Abbotsford Community Library medal ceremony
Councillor Driessen awarded medals to the participants of Abbotsford Community Library’s summer reading club.
August 24, 2024 - Taste Around the World
Mayor Siemens welcomed everyone and talked about the importance of bringing cultures together before sampling some of the cooking with Councillors Gibson and Ross (not pictured).
August 14, 2024 - Hwy 1 Expansion Announcement
Mayor Siemens and Premier Eby discuss the needs of Abbotsford at the provincial announcement for Hwy 1 expansion.
August 10, 2024 - Abbotsford International Airshow
Mayor Siemens with Minister Bill Blair, Canada's Minister of National Defence at the 62nd Annual Abbotsford International Airshow.
August 10, 2024 - Abbotsford International Airshow
Councillor Ross welcomed guests and performers to the Abbotsford International Airshow, which commemorated the Royal Canadian Air Force's centennial anniversary.
August 8, 2024 - Aerospace, Defence and Security Expo
Mayor Siemens, along with Councillors Barkman, Driessen, Gibson and Ross joined delegates at Tradex for the largest aerospace event in Western Canada. The Expo highlights BC’s renowned aerospace sector and brings together government and industry leaders to share insights, developments and to encourage continued improvements in the commercial and military aerospace, defence and security sectors across the country.
August 9, 2024 - 62nd Abbotsford International Airshow Twilight Show
Councillors Warkentin, Ross, Barkman, Chahal, Loewen, Driessen and Mayor Siemens at the opening of the 62nd Annual Abbotsford International Airshow, which aims to foster a passion for flight and promote education, diversity and careers in aviation.
August 8, 2024 - Aerospace Defence and Security Expo (ADSE)
Mayor Siemens welcomed delegates to the ADSE, the largest aerospace event in Western Canada. The Expo highlights BC’s renowned aerospace sector and brings together government and industry leaders to share insights, developments and to encourage continued improvements in the commercial and military aerospace, defence and security sectors across the country.
August 7, 2024 - Visit with former Abbotsford Mayor George Perry and Sylvia Peary
Former Abbotsford Mayor George Perry and Sylvia Peary came to City Hall to visit with Mayor Ross Siemens.
August 2, 2024 - 115th Annual Abbotsford Agrifair
Mayor Siemens along with Councillors Driessen, Loewen, Warkentin, Gibson, Ross and Barkman, along with Minister Pam Alexis and MLA Mike de Jong welcomed welcomed folks to Abbotsford at the opening ceremonies of the 115th Annual Abbotsford Agrifair.
August 2, 2024 - 115th Annual Abbotsford Agrifair
Mayor Siemens and Councillors Chahal, Driessen, and Ross at the 115th Annual Abbotsford Agrifair.
August 2, 2024 - 115th Annual Abbotsford Agrifair
Councillors Chahal, Driessen, and Ross at the 115th Annual Abbotsford Agrifair.
August 2, 2024 - 115th Annual Abbotsford Agrifair
Mayor Siemens, along with Councillors Barkman, Chahal, Driessen, Gibson and Ross welcomed the next generation of agriculture leaders to the 4-H opening ceremonies of the 115th Annual Abbotsford Agrifair.
August 2, 2024 - 4-H Opening Ceremonies at Abbotsford Agrifair
Mayor Siemens welcomed the next generation of agriculture leaders to the 4-H opening ceremonies of the 115th Annual Abbotsford Agrifair.
August 1, 2024 - Mayor Siemens and the Consul General for the Kingdom of the Netherlands
Mayor Siemens met with Sebastiaan Messerschmidt, Consul General for the Kingdom of the Netherlands in West Canada, to discuss the impacts of the 2021 flood and the biggest issues facing flood management in the Fraser Valley.
July 24, 2024 - Abbotsford Police Foundation Donor Appreciation Night
Mayor Siemens thanked donors and spoke about the valuable work the Abbotsford Police Foundation does in the community.
July 24, 2024 - 2024 Canadian Horseshoe Championship opening ceremony
The Abbotsford Horseshoe Club hosted this year’s tournament and Mayor Siemens was there to say a few words and throw out the ceremonial first horseshoe.
July 23, 2024 - ICBC cheque presentation
Mayor Siemens accepted a Grant in Lieu of Property Taxes cheque from ICBC on behalf of the City.
July 20, 2024 - Mango Market's Foodie Fest
Councillor Driessen welcomed everyone to Mango Market's inaugural Foodie Fest and then served as a judge for the food competition. Councillors Gibson and Ross also stopped by.
July 20, 2024 - Fraser Valley Gleaners open house
Councillor Ross helped prepare vegetables to be turned into dehydrated soup mix for those in need around the world.
July 20, 2024 - Fraser Valley Gleaners open house
Mayor Siemens helped prepare vegetables to be turned into dehydrated soup mix for those in need around the world.
July 20, 2024 - Fraser Valley Gleaners open house
Councillor Driessen helped prepare vegetables to be turned into dehydrated soup mix for those in need around the world.
July 14, 2024 - Staples Kids Learn + Play launch
Councillor Loewen attended the launch of Staples Kids Learn + Play, a curated assortment of educational tools and toys focused on enhancing cognitive, fine motor, sensory, and discovery and exploration skills.
July 11, 2024 - Leap of Faith
Mayor Siemens participated in this year’s Leap of Faith skydiving fundraiser benefitting Cyrus Centre.
July 6, 2024 - Berry Fest
Councillor Loewen helped open this year's Berry Fest and later judged the pie bake-off.
July 6, 2024 - Berry Fest
Councillors Barkman, Driessen and Gibson were among those taking in the festivities at this year's Berry Fest.
July 6, 2024 - Reach Gallery Museum opening reception
Councillor Driessen spoke at the opening of the Reach Gallery Museum’s three summer shows, “I am my mother’s daughter” by Farheen Haq, the 10th Anniversary Emerge Exhibition and Art on Demand 10.3.
July 5, 2024 – Surprise party for Olympic-bound gymnast
Abbotsford-trained gymnast Zachary Clay qualified to compete for Team Canada at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. A celebration was held at his home club, Twisters Gymnastics, and Councillor Loewen was there to congratulate him on behalf of the City.
July 3, 2024 - Norrish Water Treatment Plant and Dickson Lake tour
Mayor Siemens and Councillors Driessen, Gibson, Ross and Warkentin and City staff toured the sites to learn more about our main water source for Abbotsford and Mission. City of Mission council members and staff also participated.
July 1, 2024 - Abbotsford Canada Day parade
Mayor Siemens and Councillors Gibson, Sidhu, Warkentin and Barkman and Chahal (not pictured) all took part and showed off their Canada Day spirit.
July 1, 2024 - Mount Lehman Canada Day celebration
Deputy Mayor Sidhu joined in the festivities and welcomed everyone on behalf of the City.
June 21, 2024 - Bob Sutton Centre naming
Kinghaven Peardonville House Society named their new building the Bob Sutton Centre after a former board member and volunteer. Deputy Mayor Sidhu attended the event and thanked the group for providing addiction recovery and treatment services to those in need in our community.
June 19, 2024 - Archway Community Services Food Charter workshop
Mayor Siemens and Councillor Driessen attended an Archway Community Services workshop on the topic of developing an Abbotsford Food Charter, a shared vision for food security and sustainability for our community.
June 15, 2024 - Robert Bateman Secondary School Art Activism Show
Mayor Siemens viewed the Accessibility and Inclusion-themed artwork and spoke about the importance of young people thinking about these issues and expressing their ideas in creative, thought-provoking ways.
June 14, 2024 - Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce Annual Agriculture Bus Tour
Councillor Barkman enjoyed a fresh strawberry in the Maan Farms greenhouse.
June 14, 2024 - Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce Annual Agriculture Bus Tour
Mayor Siemens and Councillor Chahal during a lunch break in the action at Maan Farms.
June 14, 2024 - Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce Annual Agriculture Bus Tour
Councillors Driessen and Barkman visited Campbell's Gold Honey Farm and Meadery.
June 14, 2024 - Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce Annual Agriculture Bus Tour
Mayor Siemens watched volunteers at work at the Fraser Valley Gleaners.
June 14, 2024 - Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce Annual Agriculture Bus Tour
Councillors Barkman and Driessen got a closer look at the equipment at Fraser Valley Biogas.
June 9, 2024 - Selxwí:chel Arts and Culture Day
On behalf of the City, Deputy Mayor Sidhu welcomed everyone to Selxwí:chel Arts and Culture Day (formerly Aboriginal Arts and Culture Day) at Trethewey House Heritage Site and invited them to enjoy the arts, crafts and performances.
June 3, 2024 - Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund press conference
Mayor Siemens, Merritt Mayor Michael G. Goetz and Princeton Mayor Spencer Coyne held a joint press conference after all three communities were denied federal DMAF funding. Former Abbotsford mayor Henry Braun also spoke.
June 3, 2024 – BC Seniors’ Week kick-off
The City’s Abbotsford ACCESS Seniors Resources and Supports Working Group kicked off BC Seniors’ Week with an event at the Abbotsford Social Activity Association featuring BC seniors advocate Dan Levitt. Councillor Barkman was there to welcome Levitt, who served as executive director of Tabor Village seniors’ living community for more than 10 years.
May 31, 2024 - Western Gasco grand opening
Councillor Loewen gave greetings from the City at the opening of Western Gasco’s new compressed gas cylinder filling facility.
May 30, 2024 - GoByBike Week
Mayor Siemens, Councillor Gibson and City staff got together to mark the beginning of GoByBike Week.
May 30, 2024 - Abbotsford Community Foundation spring grants
Nearly $120,000 in grants were presented to 11 groups, including $60,000 in Agricultural Enhancement Grants, which are offered in partnership with the City of Abbotsford.
May 29, 2024 - Abbotsford Police Department Awards Celebration
Mayor Siemens attended the Abbotsford Police Department’s annual awards celebration to express his gratitude on behalf of the City and help present the awards.
May 26, 2024 - Run for Water
After taking part in the 10K run, Mayor Siemens took to the stage and thanked everyone for participating and raising money for those in need of clean drinking water in Ethiopia.
May 25, 2024 - 104th Bradner May Day
Councillor Sidhu handed out candy during the parade and later gave greetings from the city and spoke about the value of this long-running community event. Councillors Gibson and Ross also joined in on the fun.
May 23, 2024 - Abbotsford Restorative Justice and Advocacy Association Annual General Meeting
Deputy Mayor Loewen attended the Abbotsford Restorative Justice and Advocacy Association’s AGM and spoke about the positive impacts its programs and services have had on the community.
May 23, 2024 - Inaugural Mayor's Luncheon
Mayor Siemens took questions from UFV president Joanne MacLean as part of the inaugural Mayor’s Luncheon at the university’s Abbotsford campus where the theme of the day focused on community building.
May 21, 2024 - Fraser Valley Economic Summit
The Fraser Valley Economic Summit was held at UFV’s Abbotsford campus, with Mayor Siemens taking part in the Local Leadership Panel. Also participating were Township of Langley Mayor Woodward, Mission Mayor Horn, Chilliwack Mayor Popove and FVRD Chair Lum. Ch’íyáqtel First Nation Chief Epp moderated the talk.
May 11, 2024 - Abbotsford Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony
Among the inductees in the Abbotsford Sports Hall of Fame's Class of 2024 was Stanley Cup-winning assistant coach Ryan Craig in the athlete category. Deputy Mayor Loewen was on hand to congratulate this year’s inductees.
May 9, 2024 - Fast Air grand opening
Congratulations to Fast Air on their new facility at Abbotsford International Airport. The flights and services they offer will complement and expand upon those provided by YXX and build on our reputation as a regional aviation centre and part of the largest aerospace hub on the continent.
May 8, 2024 - McHappy Day
Mayor Siemens and Councillor Driessen got a crash course at the till and pitched in by taking orders on McHappy Day.
May 7, 2024 - Decision Makers for the Day
The Abbotsford Youth Commission Youth Council met with Mayor and Council to discuss how they would approach municipal issues of interest to them.
May 5, 2024 - Red Dress Day
A Red Dress Day ceremony was held near City Hall to honour and raise awareness of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people. Deputy Mayor Loewen joined Fraser Valley Métis Association VP Kelly Penner and Director of Education Vanessa Fleury to discuss the significance of the event.
May 2, 2024 - Volunteer Appreciation Night
More than 7,000 volunteers helped us run our City programs and events in 2023. A Volunteer Appreciation Night was held in their honour and Councillor Driessen spoke about the importance of getting involved in your community.
May 1, 2024 - Abbotsford Lawn Bowling Club season opener
The Abbotsford Lawn Bowling Club opened its 2024 season at the lawn bowling facility at Mill Lake Park and Mayor Siemens was there to roll the ceremonial first bowl.
April 28, 2024 - Run for Abbotsford
The inaugural Run for Abbotsford was held at Mill Lake Park. Councillors Chahal and Sidhu (not pictured) attended the event, which raised $15,000 for the Abbotsford Regional Hospital.
April 27, 2024 - The Sky’s No Limit – She is Anything!
The Sky’s No Limit – She is Anything! returned to Abbotsford International Airport. On behalf of the City, Mayor Siemens welcomed everyone to the event, which introduces girls to aviation, aerospace, marine, defence, firefighting and policing.
April 26, 2024 - National Day of Mourning
A memorial ceremony was held at City Hall for the National Day of Mourning for workers injured or killed on the job. Councillor Loewen emceed the event, which featured speakers discussing the importance of workplace safety.
April 25, 2024 - JAMES plant tour
Mayor Siemens and Councillors Gibson and Warkentin joined Mission Mayor Horn and Councillors Davies, Gill, Hamilton and Plecas on a tour of the Joint Abbotsford Mission Environmental Systems water treatment plant.
April 22, 2024 - Earth Day clean-up at Mill Lake Park
Centennial Park Elementary School French immersion students celebrated Earth Day by picking up litter at Mill Lake Park. Mayor Siemens tagged along to help with the clean-up efforts.
April 18, 2024 – Sikh Heritage Month proclamation
Mayor Siemens and Councillors Driessen, Chahal and Warkentin (not pictured) visited Abbotsford’s historic Gur Sikh Temple, where Premier Eby proclaimed April to be Sikh Heritage Month.
April 17, 2024 - Skills Canada BC Provincials Trades and Technology Competitions
More than 600 competitors from across BC descended on Tradex to compete at the 30th annual Skills Canada BC Provincials Trades and Technology Competitions. Mayor Siemens brought greetings from the City and highlighted the value of skilled trades and technologies to our economy.
April 17, 2024 - Abbotsford ACCESS Agency Awareness and Connections Breakfast
The City’s Abbotsford ACCESS initiative, a network of local service providers focused on addressing complex social issues with a multi-agency approach, met to discuss shelter and housing challenges in our community. Mayor Siemens attended the event and spoke about the importance of working together to address homelessness.
April 12, 2024 - Bradner Flower Show
It’s not officially springtime in the Fraser Valley until the Bradner Flower Show comes to town! Mayor Siemens was on hand to help kick off the event at Bradner Hall.
April 11, 2024 - Battle of the Badges
Mayor Siemens dropped the puck at the inaugural Battle of the Badges charity hockey game, which saw Abbotsford Police Department beat Abbotsford Fire Rescue Service.
April 10, 2024 - Gathering Markit
Mayor Siemens and Councillors Ross and Gibson toured the Gathering Markit at Cascade Community Church. The non-profit grocery store provides food and meal kits for families facing short-term financial challenges.
April 10, 2024 - Annual ACLN Prayer Breakfast
Mayor Siemens was one of the speakers at the annual Abbotsford Christian Leaders Network Prayer Breakfast. Acknowledging all the service and outreach work that takes place by so many groups in our community, Mayor expressed his thanks, and shared how his faith shapes how he addresses tough issues facing our city.
April 10, 2024 - Annual ACLN Prayer Breakfast
Councillors Loewen, Chahal, Ross, Driessen, Warkentin, Gibson and Sidhu joined community partners, first responders, school board trustees and faith leaders for the annual Abbotsford Christian Leaders Network Prayer Breakfast.
April 6, 2024 - 102nd annual Chilliwack Plowing Match
Congratulations Deputy Mayor Driessen! She represented Abbotsford in the Community Leaders’ Class at the 102nd annual Chilliwack Plowing Match where she finished in first place and was presented with a plaque by Jim Sache.
April 4, 2024 - UFV 50th anniversary
Mayor Siemens speaking at the University of the Fraser Valley’s 50th anniversary celebration.
April 3, 2024 - CityStudio Hubbub 13 Award Celebration
Mayor Siemens presented awards to the winners of the 13th CityStudio Hubbub. The UFV student projects covered range of topics related to accessibility, climate change and commercial truck parking.
April 3, 2024 - Abbotsford Plasma Donor Centre one-year anniversary
Deputy Mayor Driessen spoke at the one-year anniversary of the Abbotsford Plasma Donor Centre.
March 30, 2024 - Pakenham Cup
Langley United beat Columbus FC 3-2 to win the Fraser Valley Soccer League’s Pakenham Cup, Canada’s oldest soccer trophy. Deputy Mayor Driessen was on-hand to present the cup to the winning team.
March 23, 2024 - Purple Day Walk for Epilepsy Awareness
Deputy Mayor Driessen attended the Centre for Epilepsy and Seizure Education in BC’s Purple Day Walk for Epilepsy Awareness at Mill Lake Park.
March 13, 2024 - Seniors Coffee Social
Mayor Siemens attended a Seniors Coffee Social event at the Abbotsford Recreation Centre. He discussed Council’s Strategic Plan and took questions from the audience.
March 9, 2024 - Golden Tree Farmworkers’ Memorial
Mayor Siemens and Councillors Chahal, Sidhu and Barkman attended the annual Golden Tree Farmworkers’ Memorial. This meaningful event honours Sarbjit Kaur Sidhu, Amarjit Kaur Bal and Sukhvinder Kaur Punia, who died on March 7, 2007 when their work van crashed on Highway 1.
March 9, 2024 - BC Short Track Speed Skating Championships
Councillor Barkman helped kick off the BC Short Track Speed Skating Championships, which took place over the weekend at the Abbotsford Recreation Centre.
February 25, 2024 - Step Up 4 Cardiac Health
Deputy Mayor Driessen spoke at the Step Up 4 Cardiac Health stair-climb fundraiser for Abbotsford Regional Hospital’s cardiac unit, and Councillor Warkentin joined participants to tackle the 751+ steps at Abbotsford Centre.
February 23, 2024 - Live to Give fundraiser
Deputy Mayor Driessen spoke during the opening ceremonies of Yale Secondary’s annual Live to Give fundraiser, this year supporting the BC Children’s Hospital.
February 23, 2024 - Mayor attends Model UN conference
Mayor Siemens addressed students and discussed the importance of public service at the closing of the Model UN conference at Abbotsford Christian School.
February 22, 2024 - Mayor visits Margaret Stenersen Elementary
Mayor Siemens visited his old school to talk to Grade 5 French immersion students about the municipal government.
February 15, 2024 - Mayor Siemens meets with students
At Central Heights Church Mayor Siemens talked to students from Regent Christian Online Academy about how the municipal government works and what it’s like to be mayor. He also took questions from the audience.
February 14, 2024 - $76.6M in upgrades coming to Barrowtown Pump Station
Mayor Siemens and Councillors Driessen, Chahal, Gibson and Barkman (Warkentin and Sidhu not pictured) joined Premier Eby, Ministers Ma and Alexis, Semá:th Councillor Ganzeveld and volunteers for a $76.6M funding announcement.
February 12, 2024 - Federal housing funding announcement
Mayor Siemens and Councillors Barkman, Driessen, Gibson and Warkentin, joined Minister Sajjan to announce an agreement between the federal government and the City of to fast track more than 730 new housing units over the next three years.
February 2, 2024 - Pizza lunch with Hubbub 12 winners
Deputy Mayor Driessen shared a celebratory pizza lunch with some of the winners of CityStudio Hubbub 12. Thanks again to all the UFV students who participated and congratulations to the winning teams.
January 29, 2024 - Mayor Siemens discusses flood alert with media
Following a weekend of heavy rain and flood warnings, Mayor Siemens met with members of media to discuss the critical need for funding support from senior levels of government for enhanced long-term flood mitigation in Abbotsford.
January 12, 2024 - Mainland Milk Producers Association Annual General Meeting
Deputy Mayor Barkman joined members of the Mainland Milk Producers Association for their Annual General Meeting at the Clarion Hotel and spoke about the importance of the dairy industry to Abbotsford.
January 4, 2024 - AbbyPD swearing-in ceremony
Mayor Siemens was on hand to welcome a quartet of new recruits at an AbbyPD swearing-in ceremony at Matsqui Centennial Auditorium.
December 15, 2023 - Salvation Army Christmas lunch
Mayor Siemens and Chief Silver helped the Salvation Army serve a delicious Christmas lunch at Cascade Community Church.
December 13, 2023 - Civic achievement awards at the Reach Gallery Museum
The City presented Ann Penner with the Order of Abbotsford, Nick Taylor with the Community Champion Achievement Award and the Board of Directors of the 2023 Abbotsford 55+ BC Games with the Community Recognition Award.
December 12, 2023 - Menorah lighting at the Civic Plaza
Deputy Mayor Barkman marked the sixth night of Chanukah with a ceremonial menorah lighting at the Civic Plaza.
December 12, 2023 - Mayor’s ride-along with AbbyPD
Mayor Siemens joined Const. Elliot Westergaard of the Abbotsford Police Department for a ride-along.
December 11, 2023 - 2023 Mayor’s Christmas Card Contest
Once again, Abbotsford students impressed us with their talent and creativity in the 2023 Mayor’s Christmas Card Contest.
December 7, 2023 - Mayor’s Annual Address to the Business Community
Mayor Siemens spoke to members of the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce at his 2023 Annual Address to the Business Community.
December 6, 2023 - CityStudio Hubbub 12 Award Celebration
UFV students presented their projects as part of the 12th CityStudio Hubbub. Mayor Siemens helped judge the entries and presented awards to the winners.
November 30, 2023 - CNIB Mobile Hub
Deputy Mayor Barkman visited the CNIB Mobile Hub at its stop in Abbotsford. The CNIB Mobile Hub brings free recreational and social activities, hands-on technology training, and fun in-person educational opportunities for blind or partially-sighted people.
November 18, 2023 - Winter Jubilee
Mayor Siemens joined revelers at this year’s Winter Jubilee.
November 16, 2023 - Chamber of Commerce Business Awards
Mayor Siemens spoke to members of the city’s business community at the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.
November 16, 2023 - Heavy-duty hydrogen fuel cell maintenance facility announced for Abbotsford
Mayor Siemens and Councillors Warkentin and Chahal on site for a provincial announcement of a new pilot program that will bring heavy-duty hydrogen fuel cell trucks to BC, and with it an innovative maintenance facility to Abbotsford.
November 3, 2023 - Kilgard Business Park opening
Mayor Siemens and Councillors Driessen, Chahal and Loewen joined Chief Silver at the opening of Kilgard Business Park.
October 25, 2023 - City wins three awards for workplace health and safety
The BC Municipal Safety Association presented Mayor Siemens and members of the City’s Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee with three awards, in recognition of the City’s outstanding commitment to occupational health and safety.
October 23, 2023 - Mayor and Council meet with Mathxwí Chief and Council
Mathxwí Chief and Council joined Abbotsford City Council to share a meal and get to know each other as leadership teams with hopes of collaborating on ways to advance the community and address important issues impacting all residents.
October 20, 2023 - Mayor and regional leaders sign Transboundary Flood Initiative
Mayor Siemens joined with leaders from BC, Washington State, Semá:th, Mathxwí and Leq’á:mel First Nations, the Nooksack Indian Tribe, Lummi Nation, and Whatcom County to sign the new Transboundary Flood Initiative, a collaborative framework designed to find and implement long-term flood mitigation and habitat restoration solutions to protect our communities, on both sides of the border.
October 13, 2023 - Grounded Innovation: Agriculture and Food Summit
Mayor Siemens spoke at the Grounded Innovation: Agriculture and Food Summit at University of the Fraser Valley.
September 25, 2023 - BC Urban Mayors’ Caucus breakfast
Mayor Siemens and the rest of the BCUMC had breakfast with Premier Eby and Municipal Affairs Minister Kang.
August 23, 2023 - 55+ BC Games thank-you plaque
The Abbotsford 55+ BC Games Board of Directors presented Mayor Siemens with a thank-you plaque recognizing the City for its support of the event.
August 11, 2023 - The Snowbirds perform in Abbotsford
Mayor Siemens posed with members of the Snowbirds during their trip to Abbotsford.
May 18, 2023 - CityStudio Hubbub 11 Award Celebration
Mayor Siemens meets with the UFV Students who won an award at the Winter 2023 CityStudio Hubbub 11.
May 11, 2023 - Fast Air breaks ground at Abbotsford International Airport
Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce CEO Alex Mitchell, MLA Bruce Banman, Mayor Siemens, contractor Bill Vandenberg and Fast Air CEO Dylan Fast break the ground at the new Fast Air facility at Abbotsford International Airport.
April 22, 2023 - Eco Farm event
Councillors attend name change event. Eco Dairy is now Eco Farms.
April 11, 2023 - Abbotsford Plasma Donor Centre grand opening
Mayor Siemens, MLA Banman and Abbotsford Plasma Donor Centre staff at the grand opening.
April 28, 2023 - WorkSafeBC Day of Mourning
Councillor Dave Sidhu speaks at The Day of Mourning to honour and remember those who have lost their lives in workplace accidents and to renew our commitment to making workplaces safe.
April 5, 2023 - Mayor's visit to Abbotsford Christian School
Mayor Siemens visited Nancy Worsley-Brown’s Grade 2 class at Abbotsford Christian School.
April 1, 2023 - Annual Plowing Event
Councillor Ross wins first place in the "Mayor's Class" race at the annual Plowing Match held in Chilliwack at the Greendale Acres.
February 15, 2023 – Dean’s Conversation Series at UFV
Mayor Siemens spoke at the Dean’s Conversation Series: Community Engagement and Higher Education, organized by Chris Schinckus, Dean of the Faculty of Business and Computing at UFV.