Becky Hogg has been elected as the newest councillor in North Cowichan following a recent byelection. Preliminary results released online Saturday show Hogg receiving 2,029 votes, narrowly ahead of Joanna Lord, who earned 1,962 votes. Other candidates included David Bellis with 447 votes, Johanne Kemmler with 387, and Raymon Farmere with 41 votes. Voting took place on April 12.
A total of 4,866 residents cast ballots in the byelection, according to the district. With a population of 31,990 based on the 2021 census, North Cowichan is the largest municipality in the Cowichan Valley.
Hogg, a lifelong resident of the valley, is married with three children and has run a small business since 2007. On her website, she emphasized her concern about street disorder and her desire to contribute to a safer, more vibrant community.
“I believe in a strong North Cowichan community – safe, clean & vibrant!” Hogg wrote. Her platform focuses on addressing street disorder, improving housing, supporting small businesses, and maintaining core community services.
She has also highlighted the importance of expanding addiction treatment services, including more detox programs, mental health supports, and housing solutions. Hogg stressed that public spaces should remain safe for everyone while addressing these issues.
“It’s time for a new approach, and I want to lead that charge at the municipal level,” she added.
The byelection was held to fill the council seat vacated by Debra Toporowski, who recently won election as a Member of the Legislative Assembly in British Columbia. Official results are expected to be confirmed by April 16.
The district expressed gratitude to voters and election staff in a Facebook post, saying, “Thank you to everyone that took the time to vote, and to the many people who worked at polling stations.”
North Cowichan covers an area of 195 square kilometres and was incorporated on June 18, 1873, making it the fifth oldest municipality in British Columbia. It is a “community of communities” that includes Crofton, Chemainus, Maple Bay, and several other neighbourhoods.
Hogg’s election reflects a growing local focus on community safety, support for small businesses, and improving public spaces. Her background as a business owner and lifelong resident positions her to address local issues with both expertise and personal experience.
Residents and observers will watch closely as she begins her term, aiming to implement policies that improve street safety, housing access, and mental health services in North Cowichan.
