Marianne Alto announces intention to run for Mayor of Victoria

City councillor Marianne Alto announced today that she will run for Mayor of Victoria in the upcoming municipal election.

Alto made the announcement today, saying that for some time now Victorians have been asking her to consider a mayoral run.

“Victoria has passed the threshold of a ‘big town’ and is evolving into a thriving city with complex, urban challenges,” said Alto. “Meeting those challenges requires balance, leadership, experience, and the courage to make tough decisions. I make sure I am well-informed and well-prepared, as only then is it possible to listen actively with objectivity and bring opposing interests together to find solutions.”

She added that her approach won’t change as Mayor, and she will “continue to identify a reasoned path forward that reflects the interests of the community today, with a responsible eye on the future.”

“In the days and months ahead, I look forward to talking about these ideas, and others, in more detail with people on their doorsteps and in neighbourhoods throughout the city. I welcome the opportunity to listen and speak to residents one by one, and to explore together how we will continue to build a city for everyone,” Alto said.

The councillor was first elected in a by-election in 2010, and has been active in the community for two decades.

According to her council bio, Alto graduated from Dalhousie Law School in 1988. Alto previously served as senior assistant to the BC Health Minister and as a senior analyst in the office of the Premier. She is also a member of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce.

In November, Councillor Stephen Andrew also announced his intention to run for mayor. Councillor Sharmarke Dubow recently confirmed that he would not seek re-election to city council.

Other council members have not yet released decisions on whether they will run in the upcoming election.