Voting in local elections is an essential way to actively participate in the democratic process and have a direct impact on your community. Here are several reasons why voting in local elections is important, especially as we introduce a new Local Community Commission (LCC) governance structure here on Salt Spring Island:

Influence on local policies

Local elections determine the individuals who will make decisions on matters that directly affect your community, such as education, infrastructure, public transportation, zoning regulations, local taxes, and more. By voting, you have a say in shaping these policies and can help elect candidates who align with your values and priorities.

Representation and voice

Local elections allow you to elect representatives who will be your voice in local government. By casting your vote, you can ensure that your community's interests, concerns, and perspectives are represented by officials who understand the needs of the area and will work to address them.

Community development

Local elections play a vital role in the development and growth of your community. Voting for candidates who support initiatives related to economic development, affordable housing, job creation, environmental conservation, public safety, and other important issues can help drive positive change and improve the overall well-being of your neighbourhood.

Accountability and transparency

Voting provides a mechanism to hold elected officials accountable for their actions and decisions. By actively participating in local elections, you can help create a more transparent and responsive government that is aware of the concerns and priorities of its constituents.

Civic engagement and empowerment

Voting in local elections is an exercise of your civic duty and empowers you as an individual to contribute to the democratic process. It allows you to have a direct impact on issues that matter to you, and by doing so, you can inspire others in your community to get involved and participate in shaping the future of your area.

Building a stronger community

Local elections bring people together and foster a sense of community engagement. By voting and engaging in the political process, you can connect with like-minded individuals who share your vision for your community. This can lead to collaboration, dialogue, and collective efforts to address shared challenges and work towards common goals.

Remember, local elections can have a profound impact on your day-to-day life and the overall well-being of your community. By exercising your right to vote, you contribute to a more representative, responsive, and thriving local government.

While the new LCC may not be able to address all of these opportunities, it might be able to help realize some of the benefits for our community and are an important reason for you to consider voting. Learn more about the Local Community Commission is and how it works.

Who Can Vote?

Qualifications for Registering as an Elector

There are two categories of electors for voting in local government elections or referenda: Resident Electors (you live in the community) and Non-Resident Property Electors (you own property in the community but live elsewhere in BC).

Resident Elector

The Provincial voters list is used for Resident Electors. You are qualified to register as a Resident Elector if you:

• are 18 years or older;
• are a Canadian Citizen;
• have resided in British Columbia for six months immediately before the day of registration or prior to voting day;
• reside within the boundaries of the CRD Electoral Areas (Juan de Fuca, Salt Spring Island, Southern Gulf Islands); or,
• are not disqualified under the Local Government Act or another enactment from voting.

To register as a Resident Elector contact Elections BC.

Non-Resident Property Elector

Advance registration as a Non-Resident Property Elector for Salt Spring Island closed on April 4, 2023. If you have not already done so, you may register at the time of voting.

The CRD maintains a list of Non-Resident Property Electors for the Juan de Fuca, Salt Spring Island and Southern Gulf Islands Electoral Areas. You may contact us to see if you are on the list or find out more about elector registration. Please contact Legislative Services during regular office hours (Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 4:30pm), 625 Fisgard St., Victoria, Phone 250.360.3642, or toll free 1.800.663.4425.

You are qualified to register as a Non-Resident Property Elector if you:

• are 18 years or older;
• are a Canadian Citizen;
• have resided in British Columbia for six months prior to voting day;
• have owned and held registered title to property within the boundaries of the local community for 30 days prior to registration or voting day;
• do not qualify as a Resident Elector; or,
• are not disqualified under the Local Government Act or another enactment from voting.

A Non-Resident Property Elector may register in relation to one piece of property only, and if more than one person owns the property, only one owner may register and that person must have the written consent of a majority of the other owners (original signatures only).

No corporation is entitled to be registered as an elector or have a representative registered as an elector, and no corporation is entitled to vote. Individuals who are on title with corporations are not entitled to register or vote. Individuals who own an undivided interest in land on which the balance is held by a corporation are not entitled to vote.

Elector Identity Documents

When registering you must provide two documents proving identity and residence (one must have a signature). Non-Resident Property Electors must provide proof that they are entitled to the property (e.g. certificate of title, property tax notice, property assessment notice).

The following are valid identity documents for proving elector identity:

• BC driver’s licence
• BC ID card issued by the Motor Vehicle Branch
• BC Services Card
• Request for Continued Assistance form SDES8
• Social Insurance Card (Canada)
• Citizenship Card (Canada)
• Real property tax notice
• Credit card or debit card issued by a savings institution
• Utility bill

Voting Opportunities

Advance Voting Opportunities: Wednesday, May 17 and Wednesday, May 24, 8 AM - 8 PM

General Voting Day: Saturday, May 27, 8 AM - 8 PM

Candidates

Below is a list of the official candidates in the 2023 Salt Spring Island Local Community Commission. You can read more about each candidate in detail from those who submitted profiles on the Exchange.

The results of the election will be published here on the Exchange. Subscribe to our newsletter to be notified of the results when they are released.