Skip to content

Screech shifts seats to take over View Royal mayor's chair

Three incumbents re-elected, newcomer Aaron Wesigerber joins council team
GNG-Viewroyalelection
Unofficial View Royal mayor-elect David Screech is all smiles at the Four Mile restaurant following the announcement of his victory on Saturday night.

After serving four terms on View Royal council, David Screech is ready to assume the top political job in the municipality.

Standing at the head of a table and joined by re-elected councillors John Rogers and Heidi Rast and council newcomer Aaron Weisgerber, the new mayor was smiles after receiving the news he would succeed retiring Mayor Graham Hill.

"It's always a stressful time waiting for those results," Screech said. "It's a long, long day and it gets longer the closer it gets, so I am just excited. I am extremely honoured the residents of View Royal have placed their trust in me and I will do everything I can to live up to that."

Screech garnered 1,336 votes, giving him a victory margin of more than 600 votes over nearest challenger Brian Burchill. David Shebib was barely a blip, receiving just 45 votes.

Rounding out the four councillor seats was incumbent Ron Mattson, who joined Rast and Rogers in putting some space between themselves and the nearest challengers.

Weisgerber was about 450 votes back of Mattson to wrap up the final spot, but edged the first defeated candidate, Mark Brennan, by just 81 votes.

"I am excited to see the three incumbents back, plus a great new addition in Aaron," Screech said. "I think it's always great to see new blood and I'm glad to see the younger one come in. Aaron's been involved in the fire hall committee and he's a good fellow."

Following long days of campaigning and sleepless nights heading into election day, Screech congratulated Burchill and said he looks forward to the next four years.

"I hope to just continue to build on the good work of this past council and continue Graham's good work. I am thankful they voted me into the position, I'm honoured and excited."

Voter turnout in View Royal was 28 per cent, identical to the mark in 2011.

alim@goldstreamgazette.com



Arnold Lim

About the Author: Arnold Lim

I'm an award-winning photojournalist, videographer, producer, and director.
Read more