Together for White Rock Launches Municipal Campaign Slate

The Together for White Rock civic electoral slate officially commenced its campaign for the upcoming municipal election on Friday, June 19, 2026. The political organization introduced its full roster of candidates to local residents during a public launch event held under clear skies at the community waterfront.

The campaign launch occurred at the seaside municipality’s prominent public pier, drawing a substantial group of local voters, onlookers, and political figures. Notably, the gathering included prominent endorsements from three former city mayors, with Darryl Walker, Judy Forster, and Gordie Hogg all appearing in attendance to support the slate.

Former Mayor Darryl Walker opened the political proceedings by introducing the council candidates to the assembled crowd. The introductions followed a formal Indigenous welcome ceremony and traditional blessing performed by Kweti Sel Kanem (Tyler Whitley), representing the local Semiahmoo First Nation administration.

Incumbent City Councillor Susan Bains, who secured her current seat during a municipal byelection last year alongside colleague Anthony Manning, formally declared her campaign for mayor. Bains leads the platform alongside incumbent councillors Anthony Manning, David Chesney, and Christopher Trevelyan.

The municipal election ticket is finalized by two additional community candidates. Former local coffee shop proprietor Laura Cornale and University of British Columbia political science professor Conrad King complete the six-member political coalition.

Bains presented her overarching municipal platform during the launch, stating her primary objective is transforming the seaside community into the most livable city across Canada. The mayoral candidate subsequently detailed her specific motivations for seeking the highest office in the local government.

“I believe in leadership that listens. As a city councillor, I have worked to ensure that residents are heard before decisions are made. When there was significant public concern about the official community plan, I paused the process to make sure that our residents had more time to understand it,” Bains told the gathered crowd. “I have worked to ensure that residents, youth, and seniors have a voice in shaping our community and have a seat, because representation matters. As your mayor, I will continue to ensure feedback is heard before major decisions are made. And that the city remains open, transparent, and responsive.”

The mayoral contender emphasized her goal of cultivating a community accessible to all demographics.

“To achieve (Canada’s most livable city), we must focus on three priorities: a vibrant city, a responsible community, and a White Rock that is for everyone,” she said.

Laura Cornale addressed the public next, introducing her background and highlighting her extensive experience as both a local corporate owner and a long-term resident.

“I am not a politician. I’m a mother, a small business owner, a volunteer, and a resident who deeply cares about this community,” she said. “I believe in listening first, leading with integrity and putting residents at the centre of the decision-making.”

Incumbent Councillor David Chesney delivered his remarks immediately prior to a passing railway train, highlighting his ongoing tenure of three terms on the local council. He noted that he had frequently operated as an independent voice during those terms, often acting by his own choice.

“Lo and behold, a few months back something magical happened. We had a byelection … we had four votes at city council and I’ve seen what can happen with four votes at city council,” he said. “So that excited me and I said (to my wife) ‘You know what? I’m going to go one more term with your blessing.’ So, I’m very proud to stand here as the train rings … I couldn’t be prouder to stand with this group and together we will make White Rock everything that you and I believe it can be.”

Conrad King introduced himself to the public, emphasizing his roles as a dedicated family man and a professional political analyst residing within the community.

“Over the last five years, I’ve learned that this is the place that I want to raise a family and live forever. I think White Rock is special. It’s special because of the place; it’s also special because of the people. And I think I can be of service to the people of White Rock,” he said, adding that, if elected, he would use “my expertise in public policy to help build a more sustainable and inclusive community.”

Councillor Anthony Manning, who previously completed one full term before winning re-election in the 2025 byelection, stated his objective involves prioritizing resident communication and maintaining effective collaboration among council colleagues.

“The six of us may not always agree, and you may not always agree with me, but it’s important to find that middle ground to make sure that we can move forward, because White Rock does desperately need to change,” Manning said. “What that change looks like is entirely up to you. So please, continue to support us through the summer and on to (the election).”

Councillor Christopher Trevelyan, currently serving his second term, noted his personal perspective as a local resident raising young children within the city limits.

“I fundamentally believe that residents have a right to have a say in their community, their city. I’ve got three kids. … This is where we live. This is our home,” he said. “I want to make the city a place where they can live, where I want to make (sure there’s) development that fits into White Rock. I want streets to be clean. I want safe.”

Trevelyan concluded by stating that despite running as a unified political slate, members retain independent voting privileges on civic matters.

“This is very important for us. We’re not into vote-block voting. That’s not what we’re about,” he shared. “We’re joined together and we have different opinions. … We’re here united on the same slate because we all respect each other and we’re going to agree to disagree or agree to agree, and go home and be respectful to each other and be positive and supportive, because everyone here is running for you guys because we all really believe in White Rock.”

Future Outlook

The launch of the Together for White Rock slate marks a structural shift in the local political dynamics heading into the 2026 municipal election. By unifying four sitting council members under a single platform, the group establishes a coordinated front aimed at reshaping civic planning, community engagement, and infrastructure development. The upcoming campaign over the summer months will test the coalition’s ability to maintain public momentum and secure a governing majority on the city council.

FAQs

Who is running for mayor under the Together for White Rock slate?

Current City Councillor Susan Bains has officially announced her candidacy for the mayoral seat in the upcoming municipal election, leading the Together for White Rock slate.

Which incumbent council members are part of this election slate?

The political slate includes four current council members: Susan Bains, Anthony Manning, David Chesney, and Christopher Trevelyan.

Are the members of the slate required to vote identically on city matters?

No. Candidate Christopher Trevelyan explicitly clarified that the members of the Together for White Rock slate are not bound to vote as a block and retain their independence to disagree on municipal issues.