Municipal elections take place in 2026 and our small region of 440,000 will be electing 13 mayors and an army of councilors, overseeing 13 official community plans.
This seems to defy logic if our region’s goal is good planning, consistent regulatory standards, and a strong voice to secure govt funding for infrastructure.
Small municipalities don’t have populations necessary to achieve federal and provincial funding for major infrastructure projects.
Fewer municipalities would mean better planning to identify areas for higher density, protection of environmentally sensitive areas, and investment in infrastructure.
This would create more consistent building code interpretations and efficient development processes.
One third of Canada’s population is retiring and many will continue to choose to live in Greater Victoria. We need investment in housing, transportation, water and sewage systems.
In 1974, Edmonton began building Light Rail Transit with a population similar to ours today. Edmonton now has a population of over one million, and the LRT has been an essential part of growth planning.
The LRT was possible because Edmonton has a ward system – a form of amalgamation. Small communities are part of a single municipal council, where councilors work together on issues impacting the region.
For decades, the BC govt has pursued a failed governance policy of municipal self-determination undermining responsible planning for housing, transportation, sewer and water and other infratructure.
The recent Victoria-Saanich Citizens’ Assembly exploring amalgamation is recommending a referendum on amalgamation take place alongside the 2026 municipal election.
If the referendum results are in favour of merging, the first elections for a unified municipality would occur in 2030.
Now is the time for potential candidates supporting responsible planning and LRT to consider running in the 2026 municipal election.