I am writing at 1:17 in the morning, and I know I will have more to say later. For now, I wanted to get something out there for when the sun comes up.

I am so honoured by the trust that so many people in Central Saanich have placed in me. I am deeply grateful, and I am hopeful about what we can build together.

Tonight’s preliminary results show me elected Mayor with 3,616 votes, in a close race with Pat Bryant, who received 3,257.

I want to thank Pat and his team for running a good campaign and for putting forward their ideas for our community. Elections ask a great deal of candidates, their families and volunteers, and I appreciate the work they put into this one.

I also want to recognize everyone who put their name forward for Council and School Trustee, including those who were not elected. Running for public office takes courage, time and a willingness to put yourself out there. Our community is better when people are prepared to do that.

We will also have several new faces around the Council table. I look forward to the fresh ideas and energy that a new Council will bring, along with the experience of those returning. It will also be the first Council with a majority of women since I was first elected in 2002, which is wonderful to see.

For me, this result is both an honour and a responsibility.

Throughout this campaign I have talked about being available, listening, and working with people rather than simply for them. That does not end with an election.

I will work every day to be accessible, to listen carefully, to ask questions, and to work with Council and with people throughout Central Saanich.

Thank you to everyone who voted, everyone who volunteered, everyone who opened a door, came to a coffee conversation, asked a difficult question, offered an idea, or simply took part. I am so honoured, so grateful, and so hopeful for what we can build together.