Meet Arzeena

I am a local organic farmer and food security advocate with a passion for sustainable agriculture. I hold a bachelor’s degree in crop science from the University of Guelph and a master’s degree in sustainable agriculture from the University of London, England.

In 2012, my husband and I moved our family to the Comox Valley, where we now run Amara Farm, a 25-acre certified organic farm in Courtenay. Since our move, I have been involved in launching the Mid-Island Farmers’ Institute and the Comox Valley Food Policy Council. I also actively volunteer with the CV Seed Savers and the local Farm to School movement.

In 2018, I was honoured to be elected to the Board of the Comox Valley Regional District, serving as both Vice Chair and Director for Area B until fall 2022.

Since then, I have continued to give back and volunteer in our community. I sit on the Board of the Comox Valley Health Network, Food Policy Council, Pride Society and volunteer with the Community Justice Center and ComoxValley4Palestine.

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Why I’m Running

Prior Achievements

Professional and Community Involvement

  • Small Business Owner: Amara Farm - Chamber of Commerce award winner

  • Chair: Young Agrarians

  • Board Member:

    • Comox Valley Arts

    • CVOX Community Radio 

    • CV Community Health Network

    • Mid Island Farmers’ Institute

    • Comox Valley Food Policy Council

Why I'm Running

Area B residents deserve a strong, committed representative that has their interests at heart.

I am a local farmer and business owner and have raised my children in this community. I volunteer for local organizations and use our local parks, pools and beaches. We have an amazing natural environment in Area B and I want to keep it that way. Sadly, urban expansion is threatening the very spaces that we hold so dear and we need a strong voice to push back against density, right at the edges of our community. That’s not where density belongs.

We also need to prioritize and save for the upcoming infrastructure needs of our community without burdening our small tax base. This means making hard choices to either delay or not replace certain facilities. I am not afraid of making difficult decisions.

But most importantly, I feel Area B residents need a Director who listens and responds to local needs.

Achievements

Achievements as Comox Valley Regional District Area B Director and Vice Chair (2018-2022)

During my tenure as Comox Valley Regional District Area B Director and Vice Chair, I have proudly led and supported numerous initiatives that have significantly improved the quality of life for our residents. Here are some of the key accomplishments:

  1. Odour Reduction for Brent Rd and Lazo Area

    • Successfully advocated for the coverage of the sewage treatment plant, reducing unpleasant odours and enhancing living conditions for residents of Brent Rd and the Lazo area.

  2. Construction of Merville Fire Hall

    • Collaborated with the Area C Director to ensure the successful construction of the Merville Fire Hall, enhancing emergency services and safety for the community.

  3. Ending Ineffective Economic Development Contract

    • Terminated the $1.2 million contract with the Comox Valley Economic Development Society (CVEDS) due to its limited benefits for Area B residents, redirecting resources to more impactful initiatives.

  4. Ban on Glyphosate in Parks

    • Implemented a ban on the use of glyphosate in CVRD parks, promoting a healthier and safer environment for our residents.

  5. Agricultural Area Plan Grant

    • Assisted in securing a grant for the 2022/23 Agricultural Area Plan, supporting sustainable agriculture and local farming initiatives.

  6. Air Quality Improvement for Croteau Beach

    • Supported residents of Croteau Beach in efforts to enhance air quality, particularly during the summer months, contributing to healthier living conditions.

  7. Committee Leadership

    • Chaired both the Electoral Area Services Committee and the Solid Waste Committee, leading initiatives to improve regional services and waste management.

  8. Increased Bike Lanes in Lazo Community

    • Partnered with the Town of Comox to expand bike lanes in the Lazo community, promoting safer and more sustainable transportation options.

  9. Food Security Initiatives

    • Collaborated with LUSH Valley to develop the Comox Valley Food Policy Council, supporting food security initiatives and ensuring access to healthy, local food throughout the valley.

  10. Development of a Regional Parks Service

    • Spearheaded the creation of a Regional Parks Service, working with the community to purchase regionally important tracts of land, increasing green spaces and enhancing the quality of life for all residents.

These achievements reflect my commitment to improving our community's infrastructure, environment, and overall well-being. I am dedicated to continuing this work and ensuring that our region remains a vibrant and sustainable place to live.

Arzeena Hamir
Proven, Effective leader