School trustee Preet Rai joins the race for the Abbotsford City Council on October 17, 2026. (Image Credit: Preet Rai)

By Alyssa Conti

Municipal Election

Abbotsford school trustee joins race for local city council seat

Jun 26, 2026 | 1:12 PM

ABBOTSFORD — An Abbotsford resident is joining a fellow local school trustee in the running for a seat on City Council this fall.

Preet Rai has served 18 years of public service, financial supervision, and community leadership in multiple roles within the Abbotsford School District, including three years as Vice-Chair and Chair of the Board’s Finance, Education and Audit Committees.

“It has been an honor and privilege to serve the families of Abbotsford as a School Trustee,” said Rai. “The trust placed in me by residents over the years is something I deeply value.”

Rai is a professional accountant by trade, working in the U.K. before immigrating to Canada and working with the B.C. government in the 1990s.

He has lived in Abbotsford with his wife, Rapinder, a local teacher, for more than three decades.

Municipal Election

Abbotsford school trustee joins race for local city council seat

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The trustee also volunteers to community organizations such as the Clearbrook Kiwanis Club, AbbyFest and the Abbotsford Youth Commission.

His campaign will focus on four priorities: expanding recreation and community safety, improving city permitting and development efficiency, maintaining strong finances, and putting the community ahead in all decision-making.

“Abbotsford is a city with tremendous potential,” said Rai. “As our community continues to grow, we need leadership that listens, plans responsibly, and delivers results. I want to help ensure that Abbotsford remains a safe, welcoming, financially responsible, and vibrant place for families, businesses, seniors, and future generations.”

The local election is set to take place on October 17.

by Alyssa Conti

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Abbotsford school trustee joins race for local city council seat

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