Brendan Ralfs for Saanich Council
From Saanich
For Saanich
Ready to Serve
I am excited to be running for a position on Saanich Council in the 2026 B.C. municipal elections.
I am a lifetime resident of rural Saanich who grew up, played sports and went to school and university in Victoria.
I am a career public servant with more than 30 years of professional experience as a British Columbia forest firefighter and emergency manager. In these roles I have served as both an operational and strategic leader through many of BC’s worst disasters, including wildfires, floods, droughts, heat waves and the pandemic.
I am a committed community volunteer. Last year I completed 6 years on the board of a rural Saanich community association, and I am currently an active volunteer in the Victoria arts and culture community.
I am passionate about preserving Saanich’s innate character, charm and livability, and committed to helping our community grow and adapt to meet future challenges.
As part of seeking to serve and represent all of Saanich, I want to ensure that the needs and perspectives of rural Saanich residents are reflected in Saanich Council’s decisions and actions.
Check out my contact information if you want to reach out to me directly. I would love to hear what is important to you in this election!
My Priorities
Housing
Support a carefully managed increase in housing density that respects neighbourhood character, community plans, green space, and available infrastructure.
Transportation
Build a safe and efficient transportation network that supports emergency access and improves mobility for drivers, transit users, cyclists, and pedestrians.
Taxes and Economic Growth
Grow Saanich’s tax base through responsible economic development rather than relying primarily on tax increases to meet increasing spending pressures.
Fiscal Responsibility
Ensure disciplined, transparent, and ethical stewardship of every tax dollar, with clear priorities and measurable value for Saanich residents.
Infrastructure
Make planned, long-term investments in infrastructure that respond to population growth, an aging community and the effects of climate change.
Rural Saanich
Ensure the perspectives, priorities and distinct character of rural Saanich residents are represented in the decisions and actions of Saanich Council.
Environment
Protect Saanich’s parks, natural areas, watersheds, tree canopy and biodiversity while continuing practical progress toward net-zero emissions.
Public Safety
Strengthen public safety through prevention, preparedness, and response services that help every resident feel safe and supported in their community.
Healthcare
Contribute to the ability of all British Columbians to access a family physician and primary health care if they wish to.
People, Pets & Parks
Support a balanced approach that allows people to enjoy parks with their pets while protecting other users, wildlife and environmentally sensitive areas.
Amalgamation
Respect the October 17th referendum outcome while recognizing amalgamation as an opportunity for improved governance for Saanich and the region.
Governing Values
Maintaining integrity, fairness, respect and transparency in all activities that affect Saanich residents and communities.