Paul Mahil. (Image Credit: Supplied)
Abbotsford Election

Abbotsford local launches mayoral campaign

Sep 19, 2026 | 4:52 PM

ABBOTSFORD — A third candidate has entered the race for mayor of Abbotsford in the upcoming municipal election.

Paul Mahil, a third-generation farmer, confirmed his candidacy on Monday, September 14. 

Mahil’s family planted roots in Abbotsford in 1974, when his grandfather bought the farm they have worked on for three generations.

“I’m not a career politician. I’m just a regular guy who’s tired of watching corruption and closed-door deals hold this city back — and I’m ready to fight for a better future for Abbotsford,” said Mahil.

Outside of the farm, he also runs a small snow-and-ice removal company, and his experience includes community involvement such as helping coordinate food, sandbags and helicopter flights during the Sumas Prairie floods.

“Doing good for others should be part of your everyday life,” he said.

Mahil’s platform includes opening Abbotsford up for business, holding the line on property tax increases, directing city support to homelessness and addiction recovery groups, pursuing cross-border flood protection with Washington State, and protecting Abbotsford’s working farmland under the Agricultural Land Reserve.

“I wasn’t born into politics, and I don’t owe anyone in this city a favour. That’s exactly why I can do this,” Mahil said.

Mahil is a first-time candidate and is set to run against incumbent Mayor Ross Siemens, fellow business owner and farmer Sukhi Dhami, and Dave Pellikaan on October 17.