As this campaign comes to a close, I have been reflecting on what an incredible experience the past few months have been.
When I decided to run for Vernon City Council, I knew I wanted to give back to the community that has been home to my family for nearly 100 years. What I didn’t fully appreciate was just how much I would learn along the way.
I have spent these past months meeting with residents, local downtown business owners, community organizations and people who work every day to make Vernon a better place. I’ve attended forums, knocked on doors, visited community projects and had countless conversations about the challenges we face and the opportunities ahead.
And while I have learned a great deal about the issues facing Vernon, I’ve also gained an even deeper appreciation for the people who care so much about this community.
Connecting With Our Community
I have had the privilege of meeting with representatives from organizations and groups across our community, including:
Housing, health and community services: Turning Points Collaborative Society, Okanagan Village Housing Society, Upper Room Mission, Vernon Seniors Action Network, NexusBC and the Salvation Army. I also attended a community event hosted by the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA).
Business and economic development: Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Vernon Association, Community Futures North Okanagan, and local downtown business owners.
Environment, agriculture and food security: North Okanagan Gleaners, Land to Table Network, local growers, environmental advocates and people involved in climate action and conservation.
Recreation and community organizations: North Okanagan Cycling Society, Okanagan Science Centre, Rotary and representatives of local recreation and outdoor organizations.
Public safety and emergency services: Representatives of Vernon Fire Rescue and the firefighters’ association, along with community organizations working on safety and wellbeing.
I have also had the opportunity to speak with many Vernon residents through door knocking, community events, candidate forums and informal conversations. Hearing directly from people about their experiences, concerns and hopes for Vernon’s future has been one of the most meaningful parts of this campaign.
Every conversation has added to my understanding of Vernon and reinforced the importance of working together.
What I Have Heard
Water security has been one of the most significant concerns raised throughout this campaign. This summer’s drought and water restrictions highlighted the challenges facing residents, agriculture and our community as we grow. We need a long-term, regional approach that considers water supply, conservation, infrastructure, agriculture, climate change and the cost of future investments.
Housing and thoughtful growth are also top of mind. People want housing that is attainable for young people, families, workers and seniors. They also want confidence that our roads, water systems, emergency services and other infrastructure can keep pace with growth, while protecting the natural environment that makes Vernon special.
Public safety, homelessness, mental health and recovery have been recurring topics, particularly in conversations with downtown business owners and residents. I have heard firsthand about the challenges businesses are experiencing, the impact on employees and customers, and the need for both immediate action and longer-term solutions. These are complex issues that require coordination between governments, health services, housing providers and community organizations.
Supporting seniors to age well is another issue that has become increasingly important to me. Conversations with seniors’ organizations have highlighted challenges with affordable housing, access to health care and home support, social isolation and navigating services. As our population ages, we need to think about how our community supports people in remaining independent, connected and active.
Transportation and accessibility affect people’s ability to participate fully in our community. I have heard about challenges with HandyDART, limited accessible transportation options, unsafe sidewalks and intersections, and barriers to accessing services and recreation. These issues are particularly important for seniors and people with mobility challenges, but creating a more accessible and connected community benefits everyone.
A strong local economy and vibrant downtown matter to our future. I have heard about the challenges facing small businesses, the need to support local jobs and investment, and the importance of creating a welcoming, safe and thriving downtown.
Agriculture and food security are important to our local economy, our history and our community’s future. Conversations with growers and organizations involved in our regional food system have highlighted the challenges of water availability, rising costs, access to agricultural labour and getting locally produced food to market. I have also gained a greater appreciation for the organizations working to improve access to affordable, nutritious food and strengthen our regional food system.
Protecting our natural environment and supporting recreation are equally important. Our lakes, waterways, wetlands, hillsides, parks and trails are a big part of what makes Vernon such a wonderful place to live. I have seen firsthand the extraordinary contribution of volunteers and community organizations who help protect these spaces and create opportunities for people of all ages to enjoy them.
And throughout all these conversations, I have heard a consistent message about affordability and responsible spending. Residents want Council to understand the cost of decisions, establish clear priorities, make good use of existing resources and demonstrate results.
My Commitment to Vernon
One thing that has stood out to me throughout this campaign is how much good work is already underway in Vernon. We have important plans in place, dedicated community organizations, volunteers, businesses and service providers, and a great deal of expertise to build on.
I believe our focus needs to be on turning those plans into results. That does not mean we will not need to revisit or adjust our plans as circumstances and community needs change. I want to understand what is working, where the gaps are and where Vernon City Council can make a meaningful difference. That means establishing priorities, making responsible decisions about where we invest our resources and being clear about what we want to achieve, what it will cost and how we will measure progress.
If I am fortunate enough to be elected, I will bring more than 30 years of experience leading complex change, bringing people together and turning plans into results. I also bring a lifetime of connection to Vernon, having grown up here, raised my family here, built my career here and had the privilege of serving several community organizations.
I know Council will face difficult decisions and competing priorities. My commitment is to listen, keep an open mind, work collaboratively and make thoughtful decisions that reflect the long-term interests of our community. I will continue to engage with residents, businesses and community organizations and advocate for Vernon’s interests with our regional and provincial partners.
Thank You, Vernon!
More than anything, this campaign has reminded me how fortunate I am to call Vernon home.
To everyone who has taken the time to meet with me, share your concerns, offer ideas, volunteer, put up a sign, attend an event or simply offer a few words of encouragement, thank you.
I have learned so much, met some wonderful people and gained an even greater appreciation for the community we share.
Whatever the outcome of this election, I am grateful for the experience and for everyone who has been part of this journey.
Vernon has been my home for most of my life. Its future matters deeply to me, and I would be honored to contribute to that future as a member of City Council.
Published: October 16, 2026