Under the past two councils from 2019 to 2025, City expenses increased 56.5%, while total City revenue increased only 28.0%. *Link
With expenses growing twice as fast as revenue , property tax increased approximately 40.9%* when compounded for the same period. *Link
Maple Ridge faces critical decisions regarding taxation, recreation, growth, and city spending—choices that will affect our community for generations.
Our next council cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of the last two councils.
With over 30 years of corporate management experience working with multi-million dollar budgets, I bring a clear understanding of strategic planning, fiscal discipline, and the vision to look at alternative options to modernize Maple Ridge.
Regardless of who is elected, I will work with every member of council, applying my professional background to protect taxpayers and guide Maple Ridge in a strong new direction.
The Recreational Ready projects could authorize the City to borrow up to $393 million for terms of up to 25 years.
Mayor Dan Ruimy, a couple of “A Better Maple Ridge” council members and Judy Dueck are asking you to vote on borrowing up to $393 million for terms of up to 25 years to fund three major recreational projects.
Hold Your Candidates Accountable
Don’t let a candidate avoid taking a position by simply saying “I’ll let the voters decide.”
All but a few are refusing to answer the question so they do not lose votes from either the Yes or No sides. If they cannot answer this important issue now, how are they going to face unpopular decisions on council in the future.
Learn why I am voting for alternative ideas.
Under the current Maple Ridge council between 2022 and 2025
Management salaries increased
19.9%*
Based on a same-employee comparison of City SOFI remuneration records
for 2022 and 2025; median increase: 19.9% *SOURCE LINK
Over 400 union City employees are working under expired collective agreements
The way our city manages taxpayers funds giving mangers 19.9% increases, if I was negotiating on behalf of city staff I would be asking for at least 6% a year for three years.
Total management costs increased
60.7%*
Based on City SOFI remuneration records for management and senior positions. *LINK
The next council will need to approve fair, fiscally responsible settlements.
As a voter you need to decide who you want at the table protecting employees while safeguarding taxpayers funds
Why are property taxes so high… CLICK HERE
Why are operating costs so high… CLICK HERE
Curious about the salaries of the managers making over $120,000 a year… CLICK HERE
About Lou Jose…
Lou works for one of North America’s largest sales, service and marketing companies with over 60,000 employees for over 30 years. He understands how large businesses manage spending, deliver services and lead large teams.
Maple Ridge’s 2026 operating budget is over $180 million with over 450 employees.
Lou is running for City Council to share his experience and help Council members look beyond the totals and understand the hundreds of pages of line items in budgets and financial statements presented by City staff.
Lou has played, coached and volunteered in Maple Ridge soccer, hockey and baseball, and learned to swim with the Neptunes. With four grandchildren in Maple Ridge, Lou supports expanding recreational opportunities while balancing housing affordability for their parents.
*3 and *6 Source Data” page
Lou JOSE for Councillor
A NEW direction without repeating the mistakes of the past Councils.