About Mary
Mary has lived in Parksville since 1986.
I am a retired local Elementary School Principal and a two-term City Councillor. Originally from the Fraser Valley, I travelled out of province to pursue my education. I have a B.A. (Developmental Psychology) from Carleton University, a B.Ed. (Elementary Education) from the University of Ottawa, and a M.Ed. from Simon Fraser University. I am fluent in English and French and have worked with adult learners as a mentor with Simon Fraser University. When I have time, I enjoy puttering around my place taking on minor, and sometimes major, projects. Although presently coming back from an unrelated injury, I am a member of a local running group and have run several half-marathons.
My Experience:
On Council, I have acted as liaison to numerous community organizations, including the Arts Council, the Chamber of Commerce, EarlyLearningChildCareOceanside, Ecole Ballenas Secondary School, the Tourism Association, the Task Force on Homelessness, the Audit Committee, the Advisory Design Panel, the Vancouver Island Regional Library and as Alternate to the Regional District of Nanaimo. With each of these positions I have gained enormous insight into the workings of local government and the different contributions made by these organizations. They bring many strengths and help to build community connections. Additionally, I am a volunteer member at the non-market housing table, the local Wellness Network, and contributed to the Access Oceanside Association, BeachFest Society, and Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region meetings as an alternate. These connections help inform me about community needs which is essential. Our many volunteer, non-profit organizations contribute so much to what makes our community great, inform us of challenges, and can help provide a path forward.
“I care deeply about our community and want residents to feel Parksville is a place where everyone believes they can thrive and experience a great quality of life. Those who know me agree I am hardworking, sincere, and informed on topics. My approach in working with others is to be positive, constructive, encouraging, and respectful. My skills as a strong team builder, collaborator and administrator, are important qualities I will bring to the position of mayor.”
What Mary Has Already Achieved
Successful in getting Council support for bus shelters in my first term on Council.
Got a budget for ongoing improvements to bus stops in my second term.
Facilitating the redevelopment of Shelly Road Neighbourhood Park.
Co-founded a community association.
Supported the acquisition of the Parksville Wetlands
Strongly supported the creation of Orca Place.
Facilitating a community forum on affordable housing.
““Mary was not only supportive in council meetings; she also joined us in the field! Mary knows how to get things done.”
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Vote For Mary
Saturday, October 17, 2026
How to Vote
Voting will take place from 8 am to 8 pm at the Jensen Centre and Parksville Fellowship Baptist Church.
Advance voting will be held on Wednesday, October 7 and Wednesday, October 14, 2026, from 8 am to 8 pm at the Jensen Centre, 132 Jensen Avenue East.
For more information please visit Parksville Votes.
