By ReyFort OLY
For Mario Cruz, Richmond is the community he has called home since 2001 a place where his professional work, volunteer commitments and enthusiasm for sports have brought him into contact with people from different walks of life. Now, he is seeking to bring that experience to public office as a candidate for Richmond City Council in the October 17, 2026 municipal election.
A licensed British Columbia Realtor with more than 20 years of real estate experience, Cruz identifies housing affordability as an important concern for local families. Through his profession, he says he has seen firsthand how difficult it can be for people to afford a home in Richmond. That experience forms part of his motivation for seeking a seat on council.
Cruz s attended the University of British Columbia’s Sauder School of Business. For his Real Estate license. His professional background offers a perspective on housing and the challenges facing residents trying to establish themselves in the community. While housing affordability involves several levels of government, municipal council plays a role through planning, zoning, development decisions and affordable housing initiatives.
Beyond his career, Cruz’s biography reflects involvement in community and faith organizations. He is a member of the Vancouver Diamond Lions Club and the Knights of Columbus. He is also active in Couples for Christ at St. Monica Church Parish, where he has served as a Christian Life Program team lead.
These commitments are part of a community life that brings together service, faith and participation. For readers getting to know Cruz, they provide a picture of the organizations and activities that have helped shape his background.
Sports are another significant part of his story. Cruz was a volunteer basketball coach with Ateneo Alumni of Vancouver, and his biography notes that he was named Rookie of the Year in CFC Basketball. He is also a member of the Richmond BC Pickleball Association and an IPTPA Level 1 Pickleball coach.
His involvement as both a player and coach connects closely with one of his stated campaign priorities: expanding recreational opportunities. Cruz would like Richmond to offer more indoor and outdoor activities, including pickleball, basketball and tennis, along with additional community events.
Access to recreation can give residents opportunities to stay active, develop skills and build friendships. For young people, sports can encourage teamwork and confidence. For seniors and other adults, accessible activities can support participation and social connection.
In his candidate statement, Mario Cruz also identifies public safety and support for seniors and youth as priorities. He describes a goal of helping build a city where families, older residents, young people and future generations can thrive and be safer again.
Alongside these priorities, he emphasizes responsible decision-making, transparency and accountability if elected. Turning campaign intentions into municipal action would require working with fellow councillors and considering community needs, available resources and the responsibilities of local government.
As Richmond voters consider their choices, Cruz brings a combination of professional experience, volunteer involvement and sports participation to the conversation. His candidacy gives residents an opportunity to examine how that background and his stated priorities could contribute to the city’s future.
For Mario Cruz, the next step is presenting that vision to the Richmond community he has called home for 25 years.
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