On October 19th, Township of Langley Councillor Misty Van Popta was elected as the Conservative MLA for Langley-Walnut Grove. Congratulations to her and best wishes in the important role of representing Langley in Victoria. However, in the short time since the election, Van Popta and her allies have caused many to question her level of commitment to either job. First, it was revealed that Van Popta wants to attempt both jobs at the same time.

Second, a conveniently-timed rule change is set to be debated at the November 4th Council Meeting – to allow virtual attendance at council meetings – which would make it easier for Van Popta to attempt to wear both hats.

The double-dipping ambition contrasts sharply with those of her colleagues in both provincial parties. Ward Stamer, also a BC Conservative, resigned as Mayor of Barriere shortly after winning election as the new MLA for Kamloops-North Thompson. And Christine Boyle of Vancouver, elected as an NDP MLA submitted a formal request “to begin unpaid leave as soon as granted by Council, with intention to formally resign in December.”

If both Conservative and NDP elected officials recognize the irresponsibility of attempting both roles at once, why are Van Popta and Woodward scheming to break from the norm?

For one, it would spare Woodward the need to defend his record in a byelection. Woodward’s council majority has formed a tight political unit since the 2022 civic election. Were Van Popta to resign as a councillor, a byelection might result in the election of a person who asks hard questions and refuses to rubber-stamp the Mayor’s agenda.

Additionally, there is an obvious point that should be noted: attempting to hold both jobs would result in a significant boost in income to Van Popta. Courtesy of taxpayers, serving as MLA would generate another $120,000 per year for Van Popta on top of the $65,000 per year for civic duties.

While we are journalists not lawyers, it seems seems clear that the Nov. 4th motion would unlock a substantial and immediate gain in income to Van Popta, and that she must not take part in the vote due to a pecuniary conflict of interest. We will be watching the meeting closely, and suggest all residents do the same.

The idea that Councillor Van Popta can effectively perform the duties of both an MLA and a municipal councillor is entirely flawed. Both roles demand significant time, energy, and focus, and splitting attention between them severely compromises the quality of her work and undermines the responsibilities owed to her constituents. How can she possibly give adequate attention to local issues while learning to navigate the complexities of provincial legislation and party politics in a knife-edge legislature?

Public service requires undivided commitment; attempting to serve in dual capacities dilutes accountability and effectiveness. This is not about managing schedules—it has to do with prioritizing the needs of the community over personal gain and political ambition. Voters deserve full representation, not rule changes made on the fly to facilitate double dipping by elected officials. The people of Langley deserve better.