Sukhi Dhami. (Image Credit: Supplied)
Abbotsford Election

Small business owner, farmer announces Abbotsford mayoral bid

Sep 11, 2026 | 9:02 AM

ABBOTSFORD — An Abbotsford local has now thrown his hat into the ring to serve as the city’s next mayor in the upcoming municipal election.

Sukhi Dhami, an Abbotsford-born and raised small business owner, farmer and land-use consultant, is aiming to bring new perspectives and experience to City Hall.

“I’ve spent years working on the ground and behind the scenes, building relationships, solving problems and bringing people together,” Dhami said. “I know how to get the right people to the table, and I’m ready to put that experience to work for Abbotsford, to create win-win results.”

Dhami hopes to foster those relationships to attract investment, build partnerships and secure better funding, as well as to grow the tax and investment base without always upping the tax rate.

“A stronger economy gives us the ability to build what we really need. We can support farmers and businesses, make better use of our employment lands, welcome responsible investment, and put that growth back into a better Abbotsford. It’s a 360-degree perspective we need now.”

He is also looking to cut red tape for farmers and urban businesses, offer practical housing solutions, and, due to the losses he experienced during flooding, prioritize long-term flood mitigation.

Outside of his resume, Dhami is a University of the Fraser Valley grad, a father of two and a husband to an Abbotsford school teacher – experiences that informed his hopes to establish more recreation and nightlife in the city while creating safer neighbourhoods.

“I can offer the direction Abbotsford needs to build community. I have the experience, I have the relationships, and I have the plan for us to catch up as a city and thrive. Can we do more and get more done to benefit the residents and businesses of Abbotsford? You bet we can.”

Dhami is running against incumbent Abbotsford Mayor Ross Siemens, who announced his reelection candidacy in July. General voting day is on October 17.