Sidney sees two new council members as acclaimed mayor Peter Wainwright takes the reins

Sidney is a bit of an outlier when it comes to Greater Victoria’s elections this time around, as its mayoral race was already decided.

Peter Wainwright has been elected by acclamation, meaning no mayoral vote was required tonight.

Cliff McNeil-Smith had originally planned to seek a third term, but abruptly ended his campaign in September. That withdrawal preceded Peter Wainwright’s election by acclamation on September 21st.

The council race was the one to watch this evening, where 10 candidates competed for six seats, including former mayor Steve Price.

The following councillors were elected:

• Terri O’Keeffe — 2,549 votes (re-elected)
• Steve Duck — 2,374 votes (re-elected)
• Scott Garnett — 2,215 votes (re-elected)
• Richard Novek — 1,974 votes (re-elected)
• Eric Diller — 1,896 votes (new)
• Rory Lambert — 1,865 votes (new)

Four incumbent councillors will return to the table, while Eric Diller and Rory Lambert will join as newcomers.

Diller previously ran for council in 2022 but was unsuccessful. This time, he secured one of the six available seats.

Meanwhile, outgoing councillors Sara Duncan and Chad Rintoul will not be returning to council. Neither sought re-election.

Former mayor Steve Price also fell short in his attempt to return to municipal politics, finishing eighth with 1,202 votes.

The school trustee position has also been filled by acclamation, with Monique Hiltz declared elected.

Sidney’s new council has some pretty big decisions ahead, despite its small size.

The future of Beacon Wharf, potential redevelopment of the Anacortes ferry terminal and discussions around a new town hall are just a few of the projects that could land on councillors’ desks over the next four years.

Add in housing affordability, property taxes and keeping Sidney’s small-town charm, and there’s no shortage of work ahead.

The election results are preliminary and remain subject to official confirmation.