Frequently Asked Questions
Who are you supporting for mayor?
I am resolutely independent, not on a slate, and so won't endorse any mayoral candidate. But I will commit to working with whoever is elected — always starting by agreeing on the facts, and working in good faith, with the clear objective of getting results.
Who else should I vote for?
You have UP TO 6 choices for councillor but don't have to use all of them. Also remember that votes for incumbents push newcomers down the list.
Who is supporting you?
I am honoured to have earned the support of a wide cross-section of the community including the following leaders:
You can read their full endorsements on the endorsements page.
How have you contributed to the community in West Vancouver?
I've volunteered in a range of local roles: serving on the Memorial Library Board, and the Community Centre board, school DPAC Executive, Ambleside parkrun, and work on the District's Community Engagement Committee.
I'm also a regular volunteer with Ambleside parkrun, which brings neighbours together every Saturday morning for fitness, friendship, and fresh air.
Since 2024, I've put that community focus into practice as Constituency Manager for West Vancouver-Sea to Sky MLA Jeremy Valeriote, helping local residents navigate provincial services and advocate for better services.
What expertise do you bring to council?
I spent years as a BBC journalist, producer and editor reporting on a wide variety of stories. I learnt how to ask the right questions, listen carefully, and explain complex public policy issues clearly.
As Constituency Manager for West Vancouver-Sea to Sky MLA Jeremy Valeriote, I work every day on casework and advocacy with a whole range of provincial ministries — Transportation and Transit; Health; Finance; Water Land and Resource Stewardship; and many more. I understand how local, provincial, and federal governments work, and I know how to get results for residents.
What would you do for businesses in West Van?
Businesses are struggling with attracting and retaining employees, paying sometimes punitive triple-net leases, and contributing business taxes. Council and district staff have important work to do, in partnership with the Chamber and BIAs, to create a more business-friendly climate across West Vancouver.
Beyond that I have been talking to councillors across BC who are implementing practical municipal solutions designed to support local businesses, while also advocating to the provincial and federal government for policy change.
We can do more to promote 'right-sized retail' - requiring new micro commercial units that are affordable for startups, and removing barriers to subdivision of larger units - and introducing a Development Potential Relief Program - so that rezoned building occupants do not face big tax rises.
The legislative change required includes a commercial vacancy tax, triple net lease reform, and a new micro-business designation for the many folks who have far fewer than 99 employees, the current cap for the ‘small business’ designation.
What about the difficulties businesses face in recruiting and retaining employees?
I have been a consistent advocate for workforce housing, better transit, and a more welcoming and inclusive attitude towards the many people who travel in to West Vancouver to serve us, whether they be baristas, teachers, healthcare or emergency services workers. The Kiwanis Village West below-market workforce rental building is an excellent model that we should aim to replicate using municipal, school board or provincial land.
As part of my work with the MLA, I have spoken to provincial staff and they are willing to help, so it's essential that we work collaboratively and not in opposition.
The same applies to TransLink, where council has rejected money, and service improvements for essential infrastructure such as sidewalks.
Are you a Green?
There are no political parties in West Van, in common with most municipalities. Vancouver there are no Greens, nor are there any municipal political parties in West Van. In any case municipal decision-making requires discussion and consensus-building, and partisanship does not help.
While I campaigned to get a Green MLA elected, I was hired as a Constituency Office Manager which is a non-partisan role. That work entails advocating for constituents and building relations with all stakeholders, regardless of political affiliation.
Is your first name Jay or Jatinder?
I've been pretty agnostic about whether people refer to me as 'Jay' or 'Jatinder', all my adult life.
I've been called 'Jay' ever since I started work, way back in 1997 (in a frenetic newsroom one syllable is better than three). In the early days of social media I adopted the handle 'jaywalking', and also used it for my email address.
After moving to Canada I always introduced myself as 'Jatinder'. I did, however, use 'Jay' when I did some consulting work - mainly because I had an easy brand image to go with it (see 'About the Jay').
When I decided to run for council I decided to go with Jay just to help people remember my name.
And VoteJay.ca is obviously better than the alternative, wouldn't you agree?
Have another question?
Send it to info@votejay.ca.