Friday, November 8, 2024 – Dana Lajeunesse announced he is stepping down from his role as Councillor, effective immediately, following his recent election as a member of the provincial legislature.
“I am grateful for the support and collaboration of the dedicated staff at the District, my colleagues on Council and the residents of Sooke,” said Lajeunesse. “I look forward to continuing my work for the betterment of our region in my new role.”
“I am appreciative of Dana’s contribution through his role on Council since 2019. His passion and keen local knowledge and history have been a valued contribution to our community,” said Mayor Maja Tait. “I look forward to working with him on shared priorities for our residents, including transportation, infrastructure, housing and health care. Together, I am confident our efforts will enhance the quality of life for residents in the region – working hard to better meet their needs of today while improving planning for future generations.”
Mr. Lajeunesse excused himself from meetings during the campaign period and requested that remuneration be stopped with the interim election results on October 19, 2024. During his tenure on Sooke Council, he filled numerous Council appointments including:
- Capital Regional District (CRD) Arts Commission
- CRD-Regional Water Supply Commission
- Juan de Fuca Water Distribution Commission
- Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL)
- Sooke Program of the Arts (SPA) Committee
- Community Economic Development Committee
- Edward Milne Community School Society
- Sooke and Electoral Area Parks and Recreation Commission (SEAPARC)
- Sooke Region Historical Society
After Sooke Council appoints a Chief Election Officer, a day for a general voting to fill the vacant Council seat must be scheduled for a Saturday no later than 80 days after the appointment. Council will meet in the coming days to discuss this and we will keep the community informed as more is known.
Learn more about local government by-elections here:
Statement from MLA-Elect Dana Lajeunesse
Serving the people of this community for two terms as a Councillor with the District of Sooke has been an immense honour.
I’ve had the opportunity to meet so many community members who share my values and care about their fellow citizens and want to make the community better for everyone.
I look forward to getting down to work with people across Juan De Fuca – Malahat as their new MLA on the key issues you’ve raised, whether it’s housing, healthcare or the cost of living.
I previously requested unpaid leave from my former position in order to begin work in my new role, and today, November 7th, I submitted my formal resignation as Councillor.
I want to thank my fellow Council members and Mayor Tait for their leadership, mentorship, and friendship during my time on council, and I cannot understate my gratitude for the hard work of District staff, who keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.
Serving the people of this community has been a great honour and experience, and now I’m ready to get to work for you as your MLA.