North Cowichan · Election October 17, 2026

Let's build a North Cowichan we're all proud to call home.

THOUGHTFUL PROGRESS

Some of the things I'll focus on as Mayor.

Big change doesn't come from big talk - it comes from clear priorities and steady, honest work. Here's where I'll put mine.

Affordability & fair taxes

Homeowners now cover 68% of the tax base — up from 48% in 2009. Let's rebalance it by growing responsible local jobs and industry.

Listening before deciding

Big decisions should be made WITH residents, not for them. I'll make public engagement a habit, not an afterthought.

Safe streets, and real compassion

People need support, and neighbourhoods need to feel safe. Both can be true. I'll push for treatment, recovery, and accountability.

More opportunity

Family-supporting jobs, housing affordability, and a valley we'll all still recognize in fifteen years.

Read the full priorities

About

MEET CHRIS WILKINSON

A neighbour, not a career politician.

Chris stands for steady leadership, fiscal responsibility, respectful dialogue, community safety, and a North Cowichan that's resilient, connected, and built for the future.

He's running because he believes our community is at a turning point — and that leadership should be approachable, collaborative, and forward-looking.

What Would Make You Feel Hopeful About the Future of North Cowichan?

It's a simple question. But it's one we don't ask often enough. What would make you feel hopeful about the future of North Cowichan? Take a moment and really think about it. Would it be seeing more opportunities for young people? Would it be knowing your children or grandchildren could afford to stay here and build a life of their own? Would it be stronger local businesses, better-paying jobs, improved infrastructure, or a greater sense of community connection? Maybe it's som

Why Only 32% of North Cowichan Voted — And Why That Matters

In the last municipal election, only 32% of eligible voters in North Cowichan cast a ballot. That number tells an important story. Not because people don’t care about their community. Most people deeply care about where they live. They care about housing, traffic, parks, safety, small business, taxes, recreation, healthcare access, and what kind of future their children will inherit. But somewhere along the way, many people stopped believing their voice would make a differenc

Will Our Kids Be Able to Stay Here?

It's a question I've been thinking about more and more lately. Will our kids be able to stay here? Not just visit. Not just come back for holidays. Will they be able to build a life here? The Cowichan Valley is one of the most beautiful places in the world. We have incredible natural surroundings, strong communities, and a quality of life that attracts people from across the country. But for many local families, there's an underlying concern that continues to grow. Will there

BETTER TOGETHER

Every voice helps shape North Cowichan.

This campaign runs on neighbours helping neighbours. Whether you've got an hour, a driveway for a sign, or a spot at your kitchen table — there's a way for you to help.

Volunteer

Door-knock, put up a sign, or help at an event. Everything counts.

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Donate

Community-funded campaigns stay accountable to the community.

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Spread the word

Share a post, forward the newsletter, talk to a neighbour.

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Keep learning

Join Chris's newsletter to learn more about his platform.

KIND WORDS FROM THE COMMUNITY

What people say about Chris.

Chris is someone I trust completely. He shows up for his clients, family and the community. He leads with heart, integrity, and a genuine commitment to making a difference.

Jana Nagy,

Training Specialist

Chris is an incredibly hard working person who consistently demonstrates a willingness to learn and further develop himself, both as a leader and mentor. He is a strong communicator with deep-rooted beliefs in enriching community, promoting teamwork and sharing ideas in an inclusive environment.

Chris Bayley,

Local Business Owner

I've had the chance to work alongside Chris in a lot of different settings, such as business gatherings, trainings, and community conversations, and one quality shows up every time: he knows how to bring a room together. Plenty of people can talk. Chris listens. He has an ability to cut through the noise to find the true issue, and then he leans on the right people to solve it through genuine collaboration, not top-down decisions. This is what good local leadership looks like.

Matt Huotari,

Local Business Owner