July 27th, 2026
VERNON, BC – Fourth-generation Vernonite, community leader, and senior project manager and change leader, Diana Wilson has announced that she will be a candidate for Vernon City Council in the 2026 municipal election.
An Okanagan College graduate, Wilson brings more than 30 years of leadership experience leading complex projects and organizational change across government, healthcare, retail, logistics, and post-secondary education. Throughout her career, she has built a reputation for bringing people together, solving complex problems, and turning ideas into practical results.
“I’ve always believed in giving back to the community that has given me so much,” said Wilson. “After many conversations with family, friends, and community leaders, I’ve decided this is the right time to step forward and serve.”
Wilson has served Vernon in a variety of community leadership roles, including as President of the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce, Chair of the North Okanagan Cycling Society, and Chair of the Vernon Paddling Centre.
“I love Vernon, and I believe our community has tremendous opportunities ahead. At the same time, we face important challenges—from ensuring a sustainable water supply and supporting local agriculture to housing affordability, economic development, and maintaining the quality of life that makes Vernon such a wonderful place to live.”
“I don’t pretend to have all the answers, but I do know how to evaluate complex issues, weigh different perspectives, and make thoughtful decisions that serve the best interests of our community.”
Wilson acknowledged the work already being done by City Council, City staff, regional partners, community organizations, and volunteers to address the opportunities and challenges facing Vernon. Wilson also recognizes the Official Community Plan, adopted in 2025 following extensive community engagement, as an important foundation for Vernon’s future.
“Our community has established a strong vision for the future, and there will continue to be important decisions about how we bring that vision to life. Residents bring valuable knowledge, experience, and perspectives to those conversations, and I believe it’s important that people continue to have meaningful opportunities to contribute as we move forward together.”
Wilson says her campaign will focus on working collaboratively to help implement the community’s vision while ensuring residents continue to have opportunities to provide input on the decisions that shape Vernon’s future.
“I believe the best decisions are made when we create meaningful opportunities for people to participate, consider reliable information, and are transparent about how decisions are reached.”
“During this campaign, I want to hear from as many residents as possible. Whether through community conversations, coffee meetings, social media, email, or my website, I hope people will share their ideas, perspectives, and priorities as we continue moving Vernon forward together.”
Residents are invited to learn more about Diana’s campaign by visiting www.diana-wilson.ca.