COMOX VALLEY ELECTIONS 2026
For most people, it’s Comox Valley’s local governments that have the most direct impact. Local governments affect broad swaths of our lives, including the livability of our communities through land use and zoning, the water quality in our creeks and streams and they provide us with parks and recreation. It’s important to vote in local elections. On this page, you’ll find profiles of some candidates, election commentary, our endorsements and where-to-vote information.
LINKS TO CANDIDATES
QUESTIONNAIRES
- City of Courtenay
- Town of Comox
- Village of Cumberland
- Comox Valley Regional District
- School District 71 candidates listed at each jurisdiction
Fact: Courtenay property tax burden equal or lower than most same-sized BC cities
New candidates trying unseat Courtenay City Council incumbents claim the city’s property taxes are too high. But province-wide data shows that the city’s tax burden is the same or lower than same-sized municipalities. And City Council is leading the province with innovative fiscal policies
Retiring Courtenay City Councillors recap years of experience
Doug Hillian and Melanie McCollum will not be seeking re-election this for the Courtenay City Council. Hillian retired after 17 years on council. McCollum served for eight years.
The FINAL candidates for the 2026 local elections
A list of candidates for the 2026 municipal elections
Overwhelmed by so many candidates? Just vote for the ones you know and like
For many Valley residents, it’s difficult and time consuming to gather the necessary information to make thoughtful selections in municipal elections. And paid trolls and fake posters on social media pages make it even more difficult. Public candidate forums help, but there is a simple solution for frustrated voters
THIS WEEK: Election signs are everywhere; MLA Day joins the Findlay ship jumpers
Candidates for the Oct. 17 municipal elections start making it official next week. But it’s been obvious that the “unofficial” campaigns began on social media a long time ago. And MLA Brennan Day announces he’s jumping BC Conservative Party’s ship — but it was no difficult decision