Chilliwack DPAC chair plans to run in upcoming school board by-election

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Bartel wrote on Facebook that the next trustee on the school board should have a fundamental understanding of how the public school system functions.

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“As we approach the upcoming School Board Trustee by-election we need to elect someone who already understands the public school system, is passionate about public education, knows how to advocate for the people who elected them and can hit the ground running,” Bartel said. “I am that person! I am excited for the opportunity to take my advocacy, collaboration and leadership skills to the next level as your Chilliwack School Trustee.”

She invited people to follow her on Facebook to get to know her better as a person and become acquainted with her position on public policy issues.

“Stay tuned to get to know me, my platform and what I promise to bring to Chilliwack School Board. I hope I can count on your vote and look forward to connecting with and advocating for you!” Bartel said.

Chilliwack School District Secretary-Treasurer Simone Sangster says SD33 has budgeted $100,000 to conduct a by-election to fill Maahs’s seat. When former Chilliwack MLA Dan Coulter won his riding in the October 2020 provincial election, the by-election between Dr. Carin Bondar and Richard Procee cost approximately $135,000, significantly higher due to COVID-19 safety measures and the introduction of mail-in ballots. Unlike a typical election every four years where election costs are shared with the City of Chilliwack, Sangster wrote in a staff report that SD33 is responsible for 100 per cent of the costs for a by-election.

SD33 says it has notified Chilliwack City Council within 30 days of a trustee vacancy. Chilliwack City Council is responsible for appointing a chief election officer within 30 days of receiving notice, who then establishes a general voting day on a Saturday no later than 80 days once they’ve been appointed. The City of Chilliwack anticipates that a by-election will be conducted in March. Timelines are currently being finalized and will be disseminated to the public once they are confirmed.