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Hello, friends! Happy new year!
The rain is sticking around Langley this week, prompting the Gateway of Hope shelter to open extra beds for those needing a warm, dry place. Beyond the weather response, there's plenty happening locally:
Langley City is mapping out major infrastructure projects for 2026, Vancouver FC's premium seats for their showdown with Cruz Azul sold out fast, and Fort Langley kicked off the new year with brave souls plunging into the frigid waters of the Fraser River.
Plus, we've got updates on the Vancouver Giants' close loss, Chrystia Freeland's new advisory role in Ukraine, and Prime Minister Carney's Paris meetings on ending the war in Ukraine.
Share Your Priorities for Township's 2026 Budget and Financial Plan (Deadline January 9)
The Township of Langley is asking residents to weigh in on the 2026 budget before Council makes final decisions.
The municipality is developing its 2026-2030 five-year financial plan and wants community input to ensure the budget reflects local priorities.
Residents can complete a short survey until January 9, 2026, to help shape how the Township balances services and infrastructure spending.
Questions or feedback can be sent to budget@tol.ca or by calling 604-533-6022.
What's Ahead for Langley City in 2026
Langley City is preparing for major community investments in 2026, from the re-opening of the renovated Douglas Recreation Centre to a public vote on constructing new arts and aquatics facilities.
Douglas Rec Centre will reopen with 74 new childcare spaces, while residents will decide on a performing arts centre and aquatics expansion in October.
Additionally, the Langley City Citizens' Assembly will publicly present their safety recommendations this month, focusing on proactive rather than reactive responses.
The city continues pressing the province for concrete timelines on housing and treatment supports for those experiencing homelessness.
Gateway of Hope Shelter Opens Extra Beds as Winter Rains Move In
The Gateway of Hope shelter in Langley has issued a weather alert and expanded capacity in response to a forecast calling for multiple days of rain.
The local shelter is taking proactive measures to ensure vulnerable community members have a warm, dry place to stay during the extended wet weather period. Additional sleeping spaces have been made available to accommodate the anticipated increased demand during the rainy stretch.
Weather alerts like this one are critical for helping homeless populations find shelter during challenging conditions. The Gateway of Hope's quick response demonstrates the community's commitment to protecting its most vulnerable residents.
Township Council 2026 Meeting Schedule Now Available
The Township of Langley has posted its 2026 council meeting schedule, with regular meetings held at the Fraser River Presentation Theatre on the fourth floor of the Civic Facility at 20338 - 65 Avenue.
All council meetings are open to the public, and residents are encouraged to participate in their municipal government.
The Township also posts video recordings and meeting minutes at calendar.tol.ca/meetings, allowing residents to review current agendas or catch up on past meetings.
This public access ensures transparency and helps residents stay informed about decisions affecting their community.
Apply by Jan 9 to Shape Langley City's Future on Advisory Committees
Langley City is recruiting residents to join advisory committees that directly shape municipal programs, policies, and services.
The committees advise Council on matters ranging from environmental issues to business development, with membership including local residents and representatives from community organizations.
The city is seeking people from all backgrounds and experiences to ensure diverse perspectives inform decision-making. Applications are due by January 9, 2026, and interested residents can apply at LangleyCity.ca/Committee.
Committee members typically serve alongside Council appointees and city staff, offering recommendations that guide how Langley City operates and serves its community.
Vancouver FC's Mexican Showdown Sees Premium Seats Fly Off the Shelves
Vancouver FC's upcoming match against top-tier Mexican side Cruz Azul has generated serious buzz, with all premium seats selling out well ahead of the February 4th game in Langley.
The match represents a significant test for the local soccer club as they face off against one of Mexico's most prestigious teams. Cruz Azul brings decades of history and a passionate fan base to what promises to be an electric atmosphere.
General admission tickets remain available for fans hoping to catch the action. The sell-out of premium seating suggests strong community interest in watching Vancouver FC compete against international competition on home turf.
Fort Langley's Polar Bear Swim Brings Out the Brave (and the Chilly)
Big crowds gathered in Fort Langley to ring in the New Year with the traditional Polar Bear Swim, where participants took the plunge into the frigid Fraser River.
While the weather cooperated with mild temperatures, the river itself offered no such mercy to swimmers braving the annual tradition. The contrast between the comfortable air temperature and the icy water made for quite the shocking experience for those taking the dip.
The event has become a beloved community tradition, drawing both seasoned polar bear swimmers and first-timers willing to test their mettle. Spectators lined the shores to cheer on the brave souls who kicked off 2026 with a memorable splash.
Vancouver Giants Drop Another Nail-Biter to Portland, 5-4
The Vancouver Giants came up just short again, falling 5-4 to the Portland Winterhawks in what their coach described as "a little bit of a track meet."
The high-scoring affair saw both teams trading goals throughout the game, with neither side able to establish defensive dominance. The Giants showed offensive firepower but couldn't quite seal the deal in the final moments.
This marks another close loss for the team as they continue to battle in competitive WHL action. The one-goal margin suggests the Giants are right there with their opponents but need to find a way to finish strong in tight games.
Chrystia Freeland Gets New Gig as Ukraine's Economic Adviser
Former federal minister Chrystia Freeland has landed a new role advising Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on economic matters.
The appointment, announced Monday, taps into Freeland's extensive background in economics and her well-known advocacy for Ukraine. Her Ukrainian heritage and fluency in the language have long made her a prominent voice on Ukrainian issues in Canadian politics.
Freeland's transition from Canadian federal politics to an advisory role in Kyiv marks an interesting new chapter in her career. The position allows her to directly contribute to Ukraine's economic strategy as the country continues to navigate ongoing challenges.
Prime Minister Carney Heads to Paris for Ukraine Strategy Talks
Prime Minister Mark Carney is in Paris today for a high-level meeting focused on ending Russia's war against Ukraine.
The gathering brings together Ukraine's international allies to coordinate strategy and support for the besieged nation. Canada's participation underscores its ongoing commitment to Ukrainian sovereignty and security.
The meeting comes at a critical juncture in the conflict, with all parties seeking pathways toward resolution. Carney's attendance signals Canada's determination to remain engaged in diplomatic efforts to bring peace to the region.
Canada's World Junior Heartbreak Continues with Loss to Czechia
Team Canada's medal hopes came crashing down again as they fell to Czechia in the medal round, marking the third consecutive year of World Junior disappointment.
Stars Gavin McKenna and Porter Martone stood with heads bowed alongside teammates, a stark contrast to the celebrating Czech squad across the ice. The loss continues a frustrating trend for a Canadian program that once dominated the tournament.
Player reactions summed up the national mood with a simple "It sucks," reflecting the weight of expectation that comes with wearing the maple leaf. The defeat will prompt soul-searching about Canadian hockey development and tournament preparation as the program looks to end its medal drought.
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