Why we didn't set out to form a slate—and why we did

Sooke Together. We didn't set out to form a slate. The 2025 by-election was decided by just 24 votes, and Helen knew she would run again. Then, in May 2026 – six months before election day – a seven-candidate slate was announced with the goal of winning every seat on Council. That's new for Sooke, and it changed this election before most people even realized the campaign had begun.

Why? A slate isn't simply candidates with similar views. It's an organized campaign under one name, sharing branding, volunteers, resources and voter recognition. And slates can work. If you trust one candidate, that trust can carry over to candidates you know much less about. When 24 votes made the difference last time, that matters.

Left to Right: Susan Belford, Brian McHattie, Helen Ritts, Steve Sorensen

We wanted to make sure Sooke voters had an alternative. So rather than accept what this election was becoming, we decided to offer something different. Sooke Together changes the equation: four candidates and room for other voices. Helen Ritts, Susan Belford, Brian McHattie and Steve Sorensen. We share resources and can compete with a seven-person slate – without trying to own every seat. We also support Al Beddows, running independently for mayor.

What brings the four of us together is a shared belief in how Council should work. Respect the plans our community has shaped. Review them. Improve them. Don't start over. Plan beyond four years. Know what's coming and how we'll pay for it. Invest in infrastructure and community services. Protect our watersheds, green spaces and rural character. Make development pay its fair share. Fight for Sooke's fair share of regional services and provincial and federal funding. Above all, make decisions in the public interest.

A seven-person slate changed this election. Sooke Together changed it again. Four candidates. Shared values. Room for other voices. Sooke has a choice.