Ten months from now, civic politicians around the province will be in the middle of campaigning for the Nov. 15 municipal elections.
In Saanich, expect to see familiar names on the ballot.
Mayor Frank Leonard says he will be running again, seeking his seventh term as mayor.
“I’m so proud of what we are accomplishing here in Saanich. I’m excited about the priorities we are working on and I’m enjoying the opportunity to serve,” he said.
As well, most (if not all) of the eight councillors have indicated they plan to seek re-election.
Couns. Judy Brownoff, Dean Murdock, Paul Gerrard, Leif Wergeland, Vicki Sanders and Nicola Wade indicated they would run again. Coun. Vic Derman said he is inclined to run, but hasn’t made a decision.
“It’s important to ensure all viewpoints are reflected in making Saanich a place for all to feel proud to live, work, do business in and especially play in our amazing outdoors spaces. It is my hope to continue to put my energies into making future decisions reflective of community,” Brownoff said.
“It has been a tremendous privilege to serve on council for the last five years and very rewarding to play a role in bringing positive changes to our community. There is still lots of work to do,” Murdock said.
“I am proud of the work and results we have accomplished in the last two terms I have been on council, and I want to continue to maintain and improve the quality of life that we enjoy in Saanich,” Gerrard said.
“Many of the challenges facing Saanich and our region are not new; but at a time when demands are increasing, it will be a challenge to keep our taxes and spending within our means. I would like to be part of a team finding solutions to these ongoing challenges,” Wergeland said.
“I find the role as a Saanich councillor very rewarding. I enjoy working with the community on current issues as well as planning for the future generations of Saanich. These are exciting changing times,” Sanders said.
“My work on the transit commission has given me a really good opportunity to put into practice things that are not just theoretical, and I know there’s lots of opportunities in Saanich to see some of those good principles come into debate. And I want to be a part of that,” Brice said.
kslavin@saanichnews.com