Hi! I’m Sarah, and I’m running for District of Squamish Council

I’m a community leader and affordable housing expert who knows how to bring people together to get things done.

I am thankful to live within the traditional territory of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw. Living here has taught me what it means to be part of a community. I have met so many people who give back to make Squamish better, and who have inspired me to do the same. 

I love local government. I've worked in and around local government for 12 years. Now more than ever, municipalities are being asked to do more, make harder choices, and think differently about the future.  

We have big and important decisions ahead with a lot at stake for the future. I’ve seen what good leadership can accomplish, and how important it is to have a vision for where we're going.  I’m ready to be part of it.

My Vision for Squamish

I share a vision for Squamish with many of my neighbours:

  • A community where a diversity of people and communities can put down roots and thrive;

  • Where it’s easy to get around by car, bike, wheelchair or on foot;

  • Where everyone can enjoy our natural places;

  • Where there are local jobs in a variety of industries;

  • Where people can afford to rent or own a home;

  • Where our public spaces are welcoming and safe; and

  • Where we have a strong, collaborative relationship with Squamish Nation.

Squamish is a community in transition. The growth of the last 15 years has brought more diversity, a stronger economy and a larger tax base. I’ve also heard worries and concerns that growth is happening to fast, or that people are feeling left behind or unconsidered.

Now we have an opportunity to make sure the community we’re becoming is one that works well for everyone.

For Council, that means being visionary while also being pragmatic. To me, that means being open to growth while making sure our policies and practices keep pace, from building design and parking to active transportation, recreation and infrastructure. It means supporting economic development across a variety of industries, and affordable housing so workers can afford to live here.

It means thinking ahead, while staying grounded in what is practical and achievable today.

There will always be tradeoffs, and local government has real constraints. But with a clear vision and values, I believe we will navigate these constraints and set a direction in a way that moves our community forward in the right way.  

About me

I am a 6-year Squamish resident, having previously worked for 8 years on affordable housing policy at the City of Vancouver.

When I first moved here, I started volunteering with OurSquamish Placemaking Society, helping build beautiful and functional public spaces and bring people together to connect, and providing leadership as President of the Board.

Later, I raised my hand to be the first Executive Director of Housing Squamish, Squamish’s first community-based nonprofit organization dedicated to affordable housing. Since 2023, I’ve worked with community partners, governments and funders to bring over $17M in funding to Squamish to protect and expand our affordable housing supply.

This is my first time running for public office. I’m looking forward to using this campaign as a way to connect with the community and learn perspectives on issues that matter here.

In my spare time, I love to get outside rock climbing, mountain biking, skiing, and trail running, and dancing to live music at the Sea to Sky Gondola and the BAG.

Connect with Sarah

I’ll be attending events around Squamish in coming weeks. Come say hello, and keep an eye on this list for updates!