From left to right: Corporal Atoui, Councillor El Reyess, Councillor MacEachern, Mayor White, Councillor De Andrade, Councillor Croal, Sergeant Aird
November 4, 2026
The Town of Gibsons officially welcomed Mayor Silas White and returning Councillors Annemarie De Andrade and David Croal, along with newly elected Councillors Sarah El Rayess and Neil MacEachern, at an inauguration ceremony on Tuesday, November 3.
Held at the Gibsons Public Market, the ceremony opened with a procession led by a court jester, followed by RCMP Corporal Philippe Atoui and Sergeant Calvin Aird, and Mayor and Councillors. Cultural Advisor Adrienne Charlie gave the welcoming remarks on behalf of the Squamish Nation.
Local lawyer Caroline Plant administered the Oaths of Office, formally welcoming the Mayor and Council into their new four-year term.
In his inaugural address, Mayor White reflected on the progress made over the past four years, including the addition of 129 housing units, 56 of which are for seniors, more than 43 childcare spaces, and the adoption of an updated Official Community Plan. The new plan provides a modern framework to accommodate growth while protecting the community’s character and environmental foundation.
Mayor White noted that the priorities identified in 2022, including housing, climate change, health care, transportation and water, remain just as important today.
“Those priorities have not changed. If anything, their importance has grown,” said Mayor White.
He also spoke about the importance of protecting what makes Gibsons special while making room for the people and possibilities that will shape its future.
“I’m excited to begin another four years with this Council,” said Mayor White. “We bring different experiences, perspectives and priorities, and that is a strength. I hope we will be ambitious in our thinking, disciplined in our decisions and generous in our willingness to work together.”
Mayor White also recognized outgoing Councillors Stafford Lumley and Christi Thompson and presented them with gifts of appreciation for their service to the Town. Councillor Lumley served on Council for twelve years, while Councillor Thompson served for four years.
Following the inaugural meeting, a public reception with appetizers and refreshments was held, providing residents with an opportunity to meet the newly sworn-in Council.
