Two newcomers have been elected to Central Saanich council in a byelection race that snubbed three former councillors.
The preliminary results Saturday night saw small-business entrepreneur Alicia Cormier and Ryan Windsor, director of marketing and operations for a vineyard, elected.
Cormier garnered 872 votes, with Windsor close behind at 859 votes. They edged out former councillor Bob Thompson, who had 827 votes.
“I’m still in shock,” Windsor said. “I’m overwhelmed and humbled by the privilege the community has bestowed upon me.”
Windsor said the time spent knocking on doors and regularly attending council and committee meetings paid off. He said he plans to focus on the sustainability of all small businesses, the district’s finances, and business and environmental issues.
Cormier could not be reached for comment.
The byelection was held to replace Terry Siklenka, who resigned after it was discovered he was living and working in the Cayman Islands while on a paid leave from council, and Adam Olsen, who resigned to run for the Green party in the May 14 provincial election.
A total of 2,949 ballots were cast — 576 in advance polls — for a turnout of 20 per cent.
According to the preliminary results released Saturday night, the vote breakdown was:
• Alicia Cormier — 872
• Ryan Windsor — 859
• Bob Thompson — 827
• John Hannam — 813
• Christopher Graham — 745
• James McNulty — 682
• Susan Mason — 526
• Bernie Struck — 361
