Shirley Wilson. (Image Credit: BCPSEA.)
Municipal election

Abbotsford school trustee launches bid for Abbotsford City Council

Jun 4, 2026 | 3:29 PM

ABBOTSFORD – The vice chair of the Abbotsford Board of Education announced Thursday she will run for Abbotsford City Council in the fall municipal election.

Wilson, who has served as a trustee for more than 20 years, says she’s throwing her hat into the ring for a seat at the council table.

“After six elected terms, I want to share my professional and elected experience, competencies, and skills across the broader municipality,” said Wilson. “Serving Abbotsford as a Trustee has been a humbling gift from the voters. I am prepared to serve at the city level, demonstrating the same trust, competence, and dedication that I have brought to our community for over two decades at the board table.”

Wilson touts her deep commitment to the community and believes her experience will help manage Abbotsford’s current growth, future planning, and local opportunities. She says her track record of fiscal responsibility with taxpayer dollars is solid.

“Over the past four-year term, the Board of Education has stewarded more than $1.2 billion of taxpayer dollars, demonstrating a deep understanding of the conservative use of public funds,” Wilson stated.

Wilson she will seek to leverage the strong connections Abbotsford Council holds with stakeholders, local community, and both provincial and federal allies.

Her platform priorities consist of an emphasis on responsible fiscal accountability, safe streets and crime reduction, community unity and support, and sustainable infrastructure and development. She hopes to expand recreational and sporting sites.

“I have led with integrity, always focused on the impacts to all students, families, staff, and the community. That focus transfers seamlessly to City Council,” she said.

Wilson says she supports the ongoing advocacy efforts for flood mitigation and trade infrastructure. She believes that the political and financial support required is long overdue and is looking forward to ensuring resilience.

The devastating floods had a negative economic impact not only locally, but across the province and country. Wilson said “strengthening our city’s infrastructure is necessary so that our constituents feel supported by the very services, buildings, trails, roads, and fields they rely on every day.”

Wilson says she remains fully committed to the ongoing work on the Abbotsford Board of Education as she runs for council this fall.