After two decades of police work in Delta, Jim Cessford is entering the political arena.
The former chief constable of the Delta Police Department (DPD) has announced he will be seeking the Liberal party nomination for Delta-South in the 2017 provincial election.
“I’m not looking for a job, I’m looking to make a contribution,” said Cessford, a North Delta resident who retired after a 47-year career in policing in February 2015.
“I’ve been the police chief for 20 years, so I have spent a lot of time in South Delta.”
Cessford was approved as a candidate for the nomination by the Delta-South Liberals earlier this week. Delta Coun. Ian Paton has also been approved as a candidate.
Delta-South is currently represented by former Delta councillor and current independent MLA Vicki Huntington, who announced she will be seeking a third term.
“I like Vicki and have supported her in the past,” Cessford told The Leader Wednesday. “She’s great and I have a lot of respect for her. You won’t hear me say anything negative about her. But we need someone in the (Liberal) party sitting at the table. I think don’t an independent MLA can get a lot of things done.”
Cessford notes his involvement in the community as a police chief will help him be successful in politics.
“I’ve worked with MLAs, MPs, mayors and council. I am comfortable working with these people,” he said.
“But seeking votes and debating issues, that’s all new to me.”
B.C. voters head to the polls in May 2017.
