Hello everyone,

As you may have seen in some of my comments in the various election groups on Facebook, I'm pleased to announce that I'm running for Saanich Council in the 2026 election campaign.

Born and raised in Saanich, I've lived here for over 32 years and have witnessed many changes in the community - some welcomed, while others raised real concerns about where Saanich is headed.

One of the main focuses of my campaign will be ethical financial management and transparency. Municipal decisions involve taxpayer money: Residents deserve clarity on how their money is being spent and whether the financial decisions represent long-term value for the community.

Topics that come to my mind include:

• Property tax/water/utility increases
• Worsening service quality
• Disingenuous financial processes to fund major projects that should be referendums
• Loss of meaning behind the constituent voice

I also bring a perspective that comes from years of volunteer leadership and financial governance. As Treasurer of the B.C. Wildlife Federation, I oversee the finances of an organization representing more than 41,000 British Columbians. We work for the best interests of our members and lobby government on their behalf. I also serve as Vice Chair of the B.C. Conservation Foundation, where wildlife and habitat conservation projects are close to my heart.

My experience in conservation has made me appreciate the important of the balance of competing interests. Saanich is a diverse municipality, composed of urban and suburban neighbourhoods, rural areas, farmland, forests and sensitive habitat, and residents who all have different priorities and concerns.

I am concerned about the pace of development and the encroachment of new development into established single-family home neighbourhoods. (Over)development leads to habitat fragmentation. Community character and heritage is lost as a result.

I believe we can grow while still being thoughtful about how we grow. We need to plan traffic and infrastructure for what is forecasted in 20+ years. While maintaining dignity in our neighbourhoods, environment and tax base.

I'm running because I believe Saanich needs councillors who will listen, ask difficult questions, look closely at the numbers, and work to represent residents.

I know I won't agree with everyone on every issue.

I don't expect to.

Strong local government starts with listening to various viewpoints. Understanding different perspectives is a byproduct of that, and helps councillors make better decisions in the chamber.

I look forward to sharing more about my platform, priorities, and vision for Saanich, and most importantly to hear from you.

In community,

Alli Deelstra