A recent post titled “Byelection candidates should live in White Rock” sparked a conversation about where local election candidates must live. However, under British Columbia law, there is no rule that candidates must live or own property in the city where they want to be elected. The key requirements are that candidates are Canadian citizens and residents of B.C.
Having lived in White Rock for over 20 years, I have voted for many local candidates. Some of them lived in White Rock, but they did not bring positive changes during their time in office. I never searched for their home addresses because a candidate’s address alone does not make them effective. What matters more is their energy, passion, and clear understanding of community concerns.
Good council members listen closely to the people they represent. They pay attention to what matters most to residents and work hard to address those issues. This dedication and action are what truly make a councillor valuable.
As White Rock residents prepare to vote this September, I urge them to focus on the candidates’ platforms and plans, not on where the candidates live. This approach will help ensure the community continues to improve in the ways we all want.
Our community’s future depends on informed voting. Instead of limiting choices based on residency, voters should ask candidates what they plan to do for White Rock and how well they understand the residents’ needs. This is the best way to find leaders who will make a real difference.
