Voters in Victoria and Saanich will be asked this fall whether they support the two municipalities becoming one, as a non-binding ballot question will appear on the October ballot. Saanich council has joined Victoria in approving the measure, setting the stage for a public consultation on amalgamation.
Background and Approval Process
The decision follows months of discussion and advocacy from groups supporting a merger, who argue that combining the two cities could lead to cost savings, more efficient services, and stronger regional governance. Victoria council had previously approved the question, and Saanich's vote on June 25, 2026, ensured the question will appear on ballots across both municipalities.
What the Ballot Question Will Ask
The exact wording of the question is still being finalized, but it will ask voters whether they support amalgamation. As a non-binding question, the results will not force a merger but will indicate public sentiment to guide future decisions by municipal councils and the provincial government.
Arguments For and Against
Proponents, including the group OneCity, argue that amalgamation could reduce duplication of services, streamline planning, and create a more unified voice for the region. Opponents, however, worry about loss of local identity, potential tax increases, and the challenges of merging two distinct municipal bureaucracies. Some residents in Saanich have expressed concerns that their community's character could be diluted in a larger city government.
Next Steps
If the non-binding question receives majority support, councils could initiate further studies or request the provincial government to facilitate a binding referendum. The province has indicated it would respect the outcome of the ballot question but has not committed to any specific timeline for action. The October election will also include municipal council and mayoral races, with amalgamation likely to be a key campaign issue.
