Councillor Michael Pratt has formally joined Mayor Eric Woodward’s political slate, now operating under the name Progress for Langley. The change reflects an evolution of the group’s identity rather than a sudden shift, as Pratt has often aligned with Woodward on key council votes in recent months.

For example, during the June 2025 Fort Langley rezoning meeting for Glover Road and Mary Avenue, Woodward recused himself due to a conflict of interest. Pratt, acting as mayor in his absence, presided over the meeting in which the bylaw passed on a 4–3 vote. Pratt supported the majority view, while Councillors Kunst, Martens, and Richter opposed. The same evening, Pratt also supported temporary borrowing bylaws for local recreation facilities, consistent with several other members of council.

Financially, the Township’s 2024 Annual Report recorded total debt and agreements payable at $317.3 million. While Pratt has raised questions about debt levels in public discussions, his voting record shows alignment with Woodward’s group on borrowing measures.

On June 20, 2025, the BC Supreme Court struck down the Township’s Community Amenity Contribution regime. Council responded by passing an interim policy on July 7, reflecting ongoing efforts to address the court’s ruling.

According to Elections BC, Progress for Langley is now registered in both the Township and the City of Langley. While municipal slates are relatively uncommon in the Fraser Valley, the registration marks an expansion of the group’s activities across local jurisdictions.

Council under Woodward has taken a number of significant governance steps in recent years, including revisiting long-standing agreements such as the Township’s policing arrangement with Langley City and its contract with the Langley Animal Protection Society.

Pratt’s decision to formally join Progress for Langley largely confirms his existing voting alignment rather than signaling a new political direction. It comes at a time when the group is strengthening its presence both within Township Council and regionally. How this development will shape future council decisions and regional partnerships remains to be seen.