Dear friends and neighbours,
Serving as your Electoral Area G Director has been the greatest honour of my life.
This community is more than a place on a map. It is where I grew up. It is where my parents
live. It is where my wife and I are raising our children. From Saltair’s shoreline to the islands that
make this area so unique, this community has shaped who I am.
Today, with gratitude, humility, and a renewed sense of purpose, I am announcing my candidacy
for re-election as your CVRD Electoral Area G Director.
Four years ago, I asked for your trust. I promised to listen, to show up, to ask hard questions,
and to bring Area G’s voice directly to the board table. Together, we have accomplished a great
deal.
We invested in our parks and public spaces. Saltair Centennial Park received major upgrades,
including resurfaced tennis courts, improved basketball courts, and new pickleball facilities. We
supported important improvements along the Cowichan Valley Trail, making it safer and more
accessible for residents and visitors alike.
We strengthened the foundation of our community by establishing long-term reserves to help
protect key assets such as the Saltair Community Centre and the Thetis Island community dock.
We advanced critical water infrastructure planning and secured momentum toward the
replacement of the Stocking Lake Dam, helping protect one of our most important community
resources.
We maintained one of the lowest taxation levels in the region while continuing to invest in the
services and infrastructure that matter most.
Most importantly, we worked to bring local government closer to the people it serves. Through
community meetings, open houses, newsletters, videos, and countless conversations, I
committed to keeping residents informed and involved in decisions that affect our future.
But the job is not finished.
The next four years will require steady leadership, practical solutions, and a renewed focus on
rebuilding public confidence in local government.
If re-elected, my priorities will be clear.
First, we must rebuild trust. Recent planning debates exposed a growing disconnect between
residents and decision makers across the region. Trust is not something governments can
demand. It must be earned. I will continue to advocate for transparent decision-making,
meaningful public engagement, and a culture that listens before it acts.
Second, we must finish what we started on water. Securing a reliable, affordable, and
sustainable source of clean drinking water remains one of our most important responsibilities.
Completing the Stocking Lake Dam replacement and advancing the water filtration solution will
remain a top priority.
Third, we must continue investing in the places that bring our communities together. Parks,
trails, gathering spaces, and recreational facilities improve the quality of life for residents of all
ages. I will continue working to expand recreational opportunities, including the creation of
dedicated dog parks within Area G.
Fourth, we must focus on practical improvements that make everyday life safer and better. From
road ditch safety and pedestrian infrastructure to responsible asset management and long-term
financial planning, I will continue advocating for common-sense solutions that deliver real
results.
Throughout this term, I have tried to lead with a simple principle: listen first, act thoughtfully, and
always remember who I work for.
The decisions ahead will shape Area G for decades to come. We need leadership that respects
our rural character, protects what makes our communities special, and embraces opportunities
that improve quality of life without losing sight of our values.
I remain optimistic about our future.
We live in one of the most beautiful places in Canada. We have strong communities, engaged
residents, and tremendous potential. The best chapters of Area G’s story are still ahead of us.
I would be honoured to continue serving as your Director and earning your trust for another
term.
Together, let’s keep building a community that our children will be proud to call home.
Sincerely,
Jesse McClinton
CVRD Electoral Area G Director
Candidate for Re-election
