Sidney Mayor Cliff McNeil-Smith withdraws from re-election race

Sidney Mayor Cliff McNeil-Smith has announced he will not seek a third term in the upcoming municipal elections. Despite previously stating his intention to run for re-election, McNeil-Smith cited “urgent matters that arose in recent days and impact my family and business” as the reason for his withdrawal.

McNeil-Smith, who has served as mayor since 2018 and also held the position of Capital Regional District (CRD) board chair for the last two years, stated that he will complete his current term. His sudden exit leaves Peter Wainwright as the sole mayoral candidate for the October 17 elections.

In addition to his political roles, McNeil-Smith has owned Tanner’s Books and The Children’s Bookshop for 25 years. He expressed gratitude to the staff and officials he worked with during his tenure in public office.