Sayward Heads Into 2026 Election With New Council, Financial Questions and Municipal Future at Stake

by | Sep 16, 2026 07:15 | Local

A largely new council is set to take shape as the Vancouver Island village faces financial pressures, governance challenges and a debate over its future

The 2026 municipal election is shaping up to be a major turning point for the Village of Sayward, where voters will choose a mayor and four councillors on October 17.

The election follows a turbulent municipal term that included councillor resignations, a by-election, disputes over council procedure and conduct, legal proceedings, financial pressures and a resident-led effort calling for the village to be dissolved and incorporated into the Strathcona Regional District.

CHEK News reports that only one member of the current council is seeking elected office in 2026, meaning the next council will contain at least four new faces.

The Village’s official election page confirms that voters will elect one mayor and four councillors for four-year terms. The nomination period closed September 11, and the campaign period officially begins September 19.

Three mayoral candidates

The current Elections BC registered-candidate financing list, dated September 15, shows Jessica Bennett and Jason Johnson as candidates for mayor of Sayward.

Johnson is the only current member of Sayward council appearing in the mayoral race. He joined council following the 2024 by-election that followed the resignations of Kohen Gilkin and Tom Tinsley.

Bennett is also associated with the Sayward Taxpayers Alliance, a resident organization that has advocated for a provincial study into dissolving the Village of Sayward and transferring municipal governance to the regional district.

The Elections BC list also currently identifies Jackie Lyons as a candidate for councillor.

The candidate list remains subject to changes through the September 18 deadline for withdrawals and nomination challenges.

A council in transition

The current Sayward council consists of Mayor Mark Baker and councillors Scott Burchett, Debbie Coates, Jason Johnson and Sue Poulsen.

That council has undergone considerable change since the 2022 election.

Baker was acclaimed mayor in 2022, while Burchett, Poulsen, Gilkin and Tinsley were elected to council. Gilkin and Tinsley subsequently resigned in 2024, leading to a by-election in which Coates and Johnson joined council.

With Johnson now seeking the mayor’s position and the other current council members not seeking election according to CHEK’s election report, voters are effectively being asked to choose a substantially different governing team for the next four-year term.

The change comes after several years of highly public disagreements inside and outside council chambers.

Governance disputes became a major issue

Sayward’s municipal politics have included disputes over council procedure, confidentiality, conduct complaints and the handling of legal matters.

In October 2025, the Village filed a petition in B.C. Supreme Court seeking permission to temporarily reduce the number of councillors required for quorum from three to two.

The Village said the application was intended to allow council to continue functioning despite conflicts involving councillors and to address matters including possible disciplinary proceedings. The petition contained allegations concerning councillors Scott Burchett and Sue Poulsen; those allegations were disputed and formed part of ongoing legal proceedings.

The Village ultimately withdrew the petition in May 2026.

In its explanation, the Village said it decided not to proceed because of the cost of continuing the case, the proximity of the general election and the likelihood that a court decision could arrive after the election.

The dispute was also connected to a separate defamation lawsuit involving Mayor Mark Baker and former Village CAO John France. The B.C. Supreme Court dismissed Baker’s lawsuit in May 2026 after considering issues involving public-interest expression and allegations concerning municipal governance.

The legal disputes have contributed to an unusually complicated political backdrop for a village of only a few hundred residents.

Financial pressures add another dimension

The next council will also inherit a difficult financial environment.

Sayward’s population is estimated at approximately 326 people, making it one of British Columbia’s smallest incorporated municipalities.

The Village adopted its 2026-2030 financial plan through Bylaw No. 522, while Tax Rates Bylaw No. 523 established the 2026 tax rates.

Earlier drafts of the financial plan generated considerable attention because of the size of the proposed property-tax increase.

A February report on the draft budget described a proposed increase of approximately 42 per cent, following earlier projections that were even higher. The discussion also included rising water and sewer charges and reductions in municipal services.

The financial pressure is not simply a question of the annual tax rate.

Sayward has a very small population over which to spread the fixed costs of municipal administration, infrastructure, water, sewer, roads, emergency services and other local responsibilities.

The village’s 2026 financial plan identifies taxation, user fees and government grants as major funding sources. A draft version of the plan showed more than half of projected 2026 revenue coming from federal and provincial grants, illustrating the importance of outside funding to the municipality’s finances.

Dissolution has become part of the election conversation

Perhaps the most consequential issue surrounding the election is not simply who will sit on council, but whether Sayward should continue operating as an incorporated municipality at all.

In 2026, residents organized around the question of municipal dissolution and integration into the Strathcona Regional District.

A preliminary financial analysis commissioned as part of the dissolution discussion estimated that municipal taxation could potentially decline under a regional-district governance model, based on a series of assumptions about which services and costs would transfer or change.

The analysis estimated post-dissolution taxation of approximately $537,794, compared with current municipal taxation of approximately $853,593, representing an estimated 37 per cent reduction under the assumptions used in the report.

Those figures are projections rather than guarantees.

A change in governance would alter how services are funded and delivered, and the report makes assumptions about regional-district administration, service costs, grants, utilities and other revenue sources.

The question therefore involves more than simply comparing two tax numbers.

Residents would also be deciding how local services are governed, how much authority would remain at the community level and how Sayward’s infrastructure and priorities would fit within a larger regional government.

The Taxpayers Alliance petition

The Sayward Taxpayers Alliance has argued that the village’s financial and governance difficulties warrant provincial intervention.

The organization says its petition surpassed the threshold required to request a provincial restructuring study, reporting support from 54.3 per cent of eligible electors.

Among the issues cited by the organization are municipal finances, legal expenditures, service reductions and governance disputes.

Those are the organization’s stated arguments; the provincial process would ultimately determine whether a formal restructuring study proceeds and what conclusions it reaches.

The dissolution question therefore remains separate from the municipal election itself.

The election will determine who governs Sayward. Any eventual restructuring or dissolution would require additional provincial processes.

Services and infrastructure remain important

While political disputes have attracted much of the attention, the next council will also face ordinary municipal responsibilities that directly affect residents.

The Village has been dealing with infrastructure projects including stormwater improvements. Construction on stormwater management improvements was scheduled to begin in July 2026.

Sayward has also benefited from outside infrastructure funding.

The federal government announced approximately $697,230 for stormwater and drainage improvements in the village through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. The funding was described as an important investment in protecting homes, water quality and community resilience.

At the same time, community services have been under pressure.

The Kelsey Recreation Centre was among the facilities affected by the municipality’s financial constraints, according to reporting on the draft financial plan.

The next council will therefore have to balance infrastructure requirements with the cost of maintaining local services.

A small community facing unusually large questions

Sayward’s circumstances are unusual partly because of its size.

With a population of only a few hundred people, relatively small changes in revenue, staffing, legal costs or infrastructure expenses can have a significant effect on municipal finances.

At the same time, the village provides services that cannot simply disappear because the population is small.

Water and sewer systems must be maintained. Roads require work. Emergency services must continue. Buildings and public infrastructure need upkeep. Grants must be pursued and administered.

That creates a difficult operating environment for any council.

The election is therefore taking place against a backdrop in which governance, taxation, service delivery and the municipality’s long-term structure are closely connected.

What voters need to know

The Village of Sayward’s general voting day is Saturday, October 17, 2026, with polls open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Advance voting is scheduled for October 7. The Village also permits qualified electors to vote by mail.

Sayward uses same-day voter registration. Resident electors must be at least 18, Canadian citizens, B.C. residents for at least six months and residents of Sayward. Non-resident property electors may also qualify under the Local Government Act if they meet the applicable ownership and residency requirements.

The campaign period begins September 19, meaning candidates will have several weeks to present their plans to residents before voting day.

A new chapter for Sayward

Regardless of the final composition of the ballot, the 2026 election represents a significant transition for Sayward.

The community will emerge from the election with a substantially changed council, while major questions about municipal finances and governance remain unresolved.

The next council will inherit the existing financial plan, ongoing infrastructure requirements and the consequences of the disputes that have dominated municipal politics in recent years.

It will also face the larger question of what Sayward should look like as a local government over the next decade.

For residents, the October vote will determine the people responsible for making those decisions.

For the village itself, the election could mark the beginning of a new period of municipal governance — or the start of an even broader discussion about whether Sayward should continue to exist as an independent municipality.

2026 General Local Elections — Village of Sayward

by | Sep 6, 2026 23:18 | Events

Thinking about running for office in the Village of Sayward? The nomination period for the 2026 General Local Elections is coming up.

Nominations will be accepted for:

  • Mayor — 1 position
  • Councillor — 4 positions
  • Term: 4 years

Nomination period:

Tuesday, September 1, 2026 at 9:00 AM to Friday, September 11, 2026 at 4:00 PM

Nomination documents are available beginning August 10, 2026 at the Village of Sayward website and at the Municipal Office.

Candidates must meet the applicable qualifications, including being a Canadian citizen, being 18 or older, meeting the B.C. residency requirement, and not being disqualified under applicable legislation.

The 2026 campaign-period expense limits are:

  • Mayor: $12,323.78
  • Councillor: $6,161.89
  • Third-party advertising: $924.28

If you’re considering putting your name forward, now is a good time to learn about the nomination process and make sure you have everything in order.

Sayward Mayor Mark Baker Defamation Lawsuit Against Former Sayward CAO John France Dismissed

by | May 11, 2026 19:48 | Local

The Supreme Court of British Columbia dismissed a defamation lawsuit brought by Sayward Mayor Mark Baker against former Sayward CAO John France over a series of Facebook posts in the “Sayward Rant and Rave” group.

Justice Hamilton ruled that France’s posts about Baker’s alleged sexual harassment behaviour, the handling of complaints, and the use of public funds were matters of public interest tied to local governance and political accountability.

The case centered on complaints filed in 2023 by Talia Clark and Councillor Scott Burchett, who alleged Baker made repeated inappropriate comments, sexual jokes, and unwanted physical contact during community and municipal events. Baker admitted making several jokes and acknowledged he sometimes touches people on the shoulder or arm in greeting, but denied engaging in sexual harassment or acting with sexual intent.

France later made numerous Facebook posts criticizing Baker and council, alleging:

  • Baker engaged in sexual harassment;

  • council improperly handled the complaints in secret “in camera” meetings;

  • Baker improperly participated in decisions despite a conflict of interest; and

  • public money was being spent protecting Baker’s image instead of resolving the matter.

The court found Baker’s defamation claim had “substantial merit” because the allegations could damage his reputation. However, the judge concluded France’s defence of justification (truth) had a real prospect of success because the “sting” of the posts was substantially true.

Justice Hamilton found:

  • sexual harassment does not require vulgarity, sexual intent, or explicit propositions;

  • unwelcome touching and sexualized comments can qualify as harassment; and

  • Baker’s admitted conduct and the evidence from Clark and Burchett were capable of supporting findings of sexual harassment.

The judge also ruled Baker failed to show significant harm directly caused by France’s posts, noting that:

  • the complaints themselves;

  • ongoing council dysfunction;

  • resignations;

  • and widespread media coverage about Sayward governance issues
    were likely major sources of reputational harm and stress.

In the final balancing analysis under B.C.’s Protection of Public Participation Act (anti-SLAPP legislation), the court held that protecting political speech and public debate outweighed Baker’s interest in continuing the lawsuit.

Justice Hamilton concluded that France’s posts were core political expression about municipal governance and accountability, and warned the lawsuit risked creating a “chilling effect” on public discussion in Sayward. The court dismissed Baker’s lawsuit.

Court Documents

Village of Sayward Schedules Committee of the Whole Meeting for March 31 6pm

by | Mar 29, 2026 01:37 | Events

The Village of Sayward has announced a public Committee of the Whole meeting scheduled for Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at the Village of Sayward Municipal Office, located at 652 H’Kusam Way. The meeting will be open to the public and provides an opportunity for residents to observe council discussions and gain insight into issues that may shape future municipal decisions.

According to the public notice, the meeting agenda is available on the Village of Sayward website, and printed copies can be obtained at the Municipal Office during regular business hours. A video recording of the meeting will be posted online within three business days, allowing residents who cannot attend in person to stay informed about council discussions. Residents wishing to submit written questions or comments to Mayor and Council may do so up until the start of the meeting at 6:00 p.m. on March 31 by emailing village@saywardvalley.ca or delivering their submissions directly to the Municipal Office.

A Committee of the Whole meeting is a common municipal governance format used across British Columbia and Canada, where the entire council meets as a committee to review issues in detail before making formal decisions at a regular council meeting. Unlike regular council meetings, which focus on passing bylaws, approving motions, and making official decisions, Committee of the Whole meetings are designed to allow more in-depth discussion, exploration of policy options, and detailed review of reports and proposals. This structure allows council members to ask questions, debate ideas, and request additional information from staff without the formal procedural constraints that govern regular council meetings.

Committee of the Whole meetings often serve as the foundation for major municipal decisions. Budget planning, infrastructure projects, policy changes, governance issues, and community concerns are typically reviewed in this setting before moving forward to a regular council meeting for approval. By holding detailed discussions in advance, council can better understand the financial and operational implications of proposed actions and ensure that decisions are informed and transparent.

Typical Committee of the Whole agendas include staff reports on municipal finances, infrastructure maintenance and capital projects, water and sewer systems, public works operations, and grant opportunities. Draft bylaws and policy proposals are frequently presented for discussion, allowing council to consider potential changes to fees, services, or operational procedures. Community issues such as economic development initiatives, regional partnerships, emergency preparedness, and service delivery challenges may also be addressed. In some cases, presentations from community organizations, consultants, or regional partners are included to provide additional information or perspectives.

For residents, Committee of the Whole meetings provide an important window into how local government operates. These meetings often reveal early-stage discussions about property taxes, municipal services, infrastructure investments, and long-term planning. Observing these discussions can help residents understand council priorities, identify emerging issues, and stay informed about potential changes that may affect the community. Because items discussed at Committee of the Whole frequently move to regular council meetings for final approval, attending or reviewing these meetings gives residents an opportunity to raise concerns or provide feedback before decisions are finalized.

Participation is typically limited to observation and written submissions, as formal public speaking opportunities are more commonly provided during regular council meetings or scheduled public hearings. However, reviewing the agenda in advance and submitting written comments allows residents to ensure their perspectives are considered during council deliberations. This process supports transparency and accountability by encouraging public awareness and engagement in municipal decision-making.

Municipal governance in small communities like Sayward often relies heavily on Committee of the Whole meetings to work through complex financial and operational issues, particularly during budget planning periods or when major infrastructure or policy decisions are under consideration. The format allows council to collaborate more openly, explore multiple options, and build consensus before bringing forward formal resolutions.

The Committee of the Whole meeting scheduled for March 31 is expected to follow this standard format, providing an opportunity for council to review current issues and provide direction to staff on future actions. Residents interested in local governance are encouraged to attend or review the meeting recording to stay informed about ongoing municipal discussions and priorities.

The public notice was issued by Andrew Young, MCIP, RPP, Chief Administrative Officer and Corporate Officer, and dated March 27, 2026.

Village Of Sayward Residents Face 42% Tax Increase With Dysfunctional Council

by | Feb 20, 2026 16:11 | Local

The Village of Sayward is preparing for a steep 42% increase in property taxes under its draft 2026–2030 financial plan — a dramatic shift for a community of fewer than 400 residents and one that underscores the severity of its financial challenges. The plan is expected to be finalized in April, but the scale of the proposed increase has already sparked concern, debate, and renewed scrutiny of the village’s governance.

At a Feb. 17 committee meeting, village CPA Jeannie Bradburne walked council through the draft budget and laid out the structural issues that have brought Sayward to this point. For years, she explained, the village’s expenditures have consistently exceeded its revenues. Rather than raising taxes or cutting services earlier, the village relied heavily on reserve funds to cover annual shortfalls. Those reserves, once a buffer against financial instability, are now nearly depleted.

With no meaningful surplus left to draw from, Bradburne said the village has reached a legal and practical limit: the only remaining tool to balance the budget is a substantial increase in property taxes. Even after implementing cost-saving measures — including cancelling programs and closing the Kelsey Recreation Centre, a facility that once served as a community hub — the gap between what the village spends and what it brings in remains significant.

The first draft of the budget projected a nearly 50% tax increase, but subsequent adjustments and recalculations brought the figure down to approximately 42%. For the average household, that means an annual increase of about $725, or roughly $60 per month. Sewer and water fees are also slated to rise, while solid waste fees will remain unchanged. Taken together, the total estimated monthly impact for residents is expected to be around $72.

The financial discussion quickly intersected with ongoing political tensions. During the meeting, Councillor Scott Burchett criticized the village’s high legal expenses in 2025, noting that a large portion of those costs stemmed from litigation involving himself and Councillor Sue Poulsen. The village is reportedly considering censure and potential legal action against the two councillors, and has applied to the province to reduce the required council quorum from three members to two — a move intended to ensure council can continue functioning despite persistent conflict and absences.

Sayward’s council has been mired in turmoil since the last municipal election. Two councillors resigned in 2024, citing dysfunction and an inability to work effectively within the current political climate. Their departures left the remaining council members struggling to maintain quorum and make decisions, further complicating efforts to address the village’s financial problems.

At the Feb. 17 meeting, Councillor Debbie Coates urged her colleagues to undertake a detailed, line-by-line review of the budget in search of additional savings. She argued that residents deserve assurance that every possible cost-saving measure has been explored before council approves such a significant tax increase. Village CAO Andrew Young added that declining provincial grants, rising operational costs, and long-term structural challenges have all contributed to Sayward’s precarious fiscal position.

The village’s difficulties have not gone unnoticed by residents. Some, frustrated by both the financial strain and the ongoing governance issues, have launched the Sayward Taxpayers Alliance, and a petition calling for the dissolution of the Village of Sayward and its integration into the Strathcona Regional District. Supporters of the petition argue that joining the regional district could provide a broader tax base, more stable service delivery, and relief from the political turmoil that has plagued the village.

Sayward Taxpayers Alliance Logo

Council is expected to reconvene in March to continue budget deliberations and explore whether the proposed tax increase can be reduced before the financial plan is finalized. For now, Sayward faces a pivotal moment — one that will shape not only its finances but also its future as an independent municipality.