Kelowna Municipal Election Voter Guide

Intro / Voter Dates: (All voter information copied directly from https://www.kelowna.ca/city-hall/city-government/elections/vote-election)

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Voting in municipal elections is harder than it seems. There are so many candidates, most of them don’t align with federal or provincial parties, and there seems to be no one centralized place to get information on every candidate. You could read everyone’s platform, but with the number of candidates and elections held during midterm season, most likely you just don’t have the time. Political Science students Mya Zanatta and Cade Desjarlais have recognized this problem and, as a solution, created this article. Here you can find two different interviews and candidate responses, as well as written bios based on information from the candidates’ platforms for those who did not respond. Alongside this, you can find all of the crucial voter information you need to cast your ballot. So get out there and vote! 

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POLL DATES AND LOCATIONS: 

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Wednesday October 12

• Parkinson Recreation Centre, 1800 Parkinson Way
• Black Box Theatre, 1375 Water Street*
• Okanagan College Centre for Learning Atrium, 1000 KLO Road, 8 am to 6 pm
• UBC Okanagan Nechako Residence, 1255 International Mews, 8 am to 6 pm

Thursday October 13

• Parkinson Recreation Centre, 1800 Parkinson Way

Friday October 14

• Parkinson Recreation Centre, 1800 Parkinson Way

Vote on Saturday October 15 at one of 13 locations across the City. All voting locations are open 8 am to 8 pm. 

• Black Box Theatre, 1375 Water Street*
• Capital News Centre, 4105 Gordon Drive
• Dr. Knox Middle School, 121 Drysdale Boulevard
• East Kelowna Community Hall, 2704 East Kelowna Road
• Evangel Church, 3261 Gordon Drive
• Hollywood Road Education Centre, 1040 Hollywood Road South
• Kelowna Senior Citizens' Society, 1353 Richter Street*
• Mission Creek Alliance Church, 2091 Springfield Road*
• Okanagan Mission Community Hall, 4409 Lakeshore Road
• Parkinson Recreation Centre, 1800 Parkinson Way
• Rutland Elementary School, 620 Webster Road*
• Springvalley Middle School, 350 Ziprick Road
• Watson Road Elementary School, 475 Yates Ro

To vote in the election, you must be:

• a Canadian citizen;
• 18 years of age or older as of October 15, 2022;
• a resident of BC for at least 6 months before the day you register to vote;
• a resident of the City of Kelowna (no minimum amount of time) or a qualified non-resident property elector (must have owned the property for at least 30 days before the day you register to vote); and
• not disqualified from voting*

*You are disqualified from voting if you have been convicted of an indictable offence and are currently in custody or if you have been found guilty of an election offence. 

Eligible voters must produce two pieces of identification to prove both residency and identity. At least one piece of identification must have a signature on it. Your identification does not need to include a photo. Acceptable forms of identification include:

• BC Driver's Licence*
• ICBC Vehicle Insurance
• BC Identification Card 
• BC Services Card*
• Citizenship Card
• City of Kelowna property tax notice
• Social Insurance Number card
• Credit card
• Utility bill for Kelowna residence (electricity, natural gas, water, phone or cable service) *NOTE: A combination BC Driver's Licence and Services Card counts as only ONE piece of identification

Questionnaire #1 - Mya Zanatta:

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1) How would you describe your political views, what labels would you use? Why do you feel this label applies to you, or alternatively, why don’t they apply? (Eg. Liberal, Conservative, Libertarian, Independent, Leftist, Right-Wing, Left-Wing, Neoliberal etc.)

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Luke Stack (Incumbent City Council Candidate):

I am a centrist. I share both Liberal and Conservative values.

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Loyal Wooldridge (Incumbent City Council Candidate):

My favourite part of local government is the ability to be truly non-partisan. It requires local leaders to debate, collaborate and work together to best serve the community. By doing this, we create a cohesive advocacy strategy that represents people-driven decisions and not simply towing a party line or personal philosophy. I strongly believe that we must serve the community as a whole by making pragmatic, data-driven decisions, regardless of personal political beliefs.

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Tom Dyas (Mayoral Candidate):

I am not a member of any political party at any level. I believe the best results come from bringing different perspectives to the table and discussing the merits and drawbacks of any proposal. I’ve owned and operated a small business in the financial and insurance industry for over 30 years, and what I’ve learned from that is everyone has to work together to achieve the best results. As Kelowna’s next Mayor I will bring together diverse opinions and thoughts and help pull this best from our team to deliver real action and results for the residents of Kelowna. 

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David Habib (Mayoral Candidate):

I know this is helpful in selecting candidates, but I am against labels. I find them divisive, and it does not build unity, which is what I strive for in all things I do. Additionally, the middle is somewhat up in the air right now. What was once middle left, is now considered middle. However, I don’t like to be anything less than transparent, so for the purposes of this article I am a Libertarian.

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Gordon Lovegrove (City Council Candidate): 

I neither belong to nor support any political party.  At each election, I vote for the party -Conservative, Liberal, Green, or NDP- that puts forward the platform most closely aligned with my values and priorities (see my platform at Lovegrovekelowna.ca for 14 page downloadable PDF), as well as looking at their past performance, local candidate’s reputation, and the party’s leader.  I describe myself as a passionate advocate for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.  I have researched, taught, mentored, and aspired to live by example on all 17 of them – and their various earlier editions – over my 40-year career, including the last 20 helping to start and grow UBCO’s School of Engineering.

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Amarjit Singh-Lalli (City Council Candidate):

I have voted Conservatives and Liberal. To me voting on the issues is important. I always try to align myself with the truth.

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James Kay (City Council Candidate):

I describe my political views as informed, educated, balanced and equitable. I believe people should be able to live their lives as they wish, with minimal regulation and oversight, yet rely on a municipal government to provide needed services for all. I focus on financial responsibility, with accountability and transparency, so that we pay for what we use, and live within our means

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Indy Dhail (City Council Candidate):

I feel I am right in the middle, we must be fiscally responsible and but be socially motivated to help those around us.

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Tom Macauley (City Council Candidate): 

I'm not big on labels. I'm not a member of any political party, but I would say that I identify most with the NDP. I became a supporter of the NDP when Jack Layton was the leader. He was a guy who cut right through the rhetoric and fought for working class Canadians and for vulnerable people. He believed that we have so much more in common than we think. At the end of the day, I identify most with policies that will make a difference to families who are just trying to put food on the table and keep a roof over their head. I'm a progressive for the most part I guess, but the NDP don't have the trademark on good ideas. I've seen good come from all parties at one time or another.

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Amrit Brar (City Council Candidate):

Note: Ms. Brar chose to do a zoom interview with the questions, therefore these answers are not verbatim, but general notes

Identifies as non-partisan but progressive, and has previously been involved with the federal liberal party. 

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2) What do you see as the most significant issue Kelowna is facing today, why this issue? What are possible solutions?

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Luke Stack (Incumbent City Council Candidate):

The issue I hear most about is public safety. People are more and more concerned about the increase in petty crime and public disorder.

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Loyal Wooldridge (Incumbent City Council Candidate):

Safety & security resulting in social challenges and a declining sense of safety for all residents is one of the most significant issues facing Kelowna. It is important to note that these issues intersect many others including housing, transportation and climate change. These challenges are felt throughout the province and can be directly linked to decades of underfunding in health care, social support services and appropriate housing. Safety & security is directly linked to socioeconomic factors that to date, have been managed through enforcement. In terms of actions I would recommend:

• Invest into youth & senior recreation places like parks and facilities with community programming to increase connection (specifically around school times and holidays).
• Utilize a ‘situation table’ with support organizations and the school district to identify vulnerable youth, early, and connect them to safety net services.
• Ensure dialogue with the Ministry of Children & Families for appropriate transition for youth aging out of foster care into appropriate housing.
• Create a peer-led response to mental health crisis calls and re-task the RCMP away from this response.
• Advocate for the NextGen 911 system to integrate a ‘mental health crisis’ response connecting to a consistent agency.
• Call on the federal government to amend criminal code bail requirements for prolific offenders for accountability.
• Increase the availability of substance use treatment options for better on demand service for those seeking help.
• Complex care housing and low secure care housing options for people that are a danger to themselves and community members.

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Tom Dyas (Mayoral Candidate):

Kelowna is facing a number of issues from our increased homeless population, an affordability crisis, traffic congestion and more. However, after speaking with residents over the last four years, crime and safety remains the number one concern. Kelowna has Canada’s highest crime rate, and 1 in 4 residents have reported being the victims of crime. Four years ago, we had the sixth highest crime rate in Canada. We continue to trend in the wrong direction. 

I have a number of positions that I believe will help move the dial. Specifically to UBCO, I would establish an RCMP presence on campus through a community policing office. This would be similar to the RCMP officers that many of you may have had partner up with your high schools, and this is something that has been called for by the UBCO Students’ Union. Other policy initiatives that I believe will make a difference include partnering more nurses with RCMP officers, hiring and empowering our bylaw officers, creating an organized and violent crime task force, and prioritizing crime prevention through environmental design. 

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David Habib (Mayoral Candidate): 

When there are media reports stating we have the highest crime rate per capita, that is impossible to ignore. Our basic need is to feel safe in our own community. When the RCMP are saying we “can’t solve this with more police officers,” that to me means we have a systemic issue that needs massive resources dedicated to its resolution immediately. I keep hearing this lack of safety is an issue that is squarely on the shoulders of the tourists. We will always have tourists, so we need to create a process to deal with this infusion of people because they are not staying away, nor do we want them to. What are possible solutions? Urgency. I admit I don’t have the most refinement when it comes to social graces. However, I get results. Period. There were issues downtown outside the nightclubs and bars. With a united front we were able to install a system where we can identify a problem before it occurs. As a result, incidents have dropped significantly for the last 4 years. We need tireless resolve to build a safer community. Not feeling safe in your own community is unacceptable. If anything happened to my kids or grandkids on my watch that would be devastating. I will do everything within my power to bring stakeholders to the table and ask the hard questions to get the results we need.

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Gordon Lovegrove (City Council Candidate): 

Unsustainable Growth Patterns, driven by a lack of leadership to address our climate crisis: Kelowna is naturally gorgeous with a Quality of Life and Liveability that folks are flocking to; we are growing and we need to make SMARTer Growth decisions on how and where we accommodate new businesses, industry, and residents.  I have knocked on thousands of doors and spoken to thousands or residents and businesses across our City – Rutland, Downtown, Glenmore, Clifton, North End, Mission, Kettle Valley, Dilworth, Capri – all of them.  A common theme is emerging – people are saying it is time for a change on Council because of recent growth management decisions.  Yes, we are a regional economic driver, technology hub, and eco-tourism destination – but folks are concerned that recent Council decisions have put all that at risk.  It is time for a change, to align our strategic direction more closely with federal and provincial commitments on UN Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).  Kelowna is at a crossroads, we can continue to follow a sprawling Business as Usual growth model (Scenario 2?), with an undressed climate crisis that is killing our seniors and other vulnerable populations, and with orphaned communities on hillsides we can't afford to service. Or, we can lead with experience, vision and sustainable, SMARTer Growth models that learn from successes, mistakes, and world-leading best-practises.  Its past time for the hard work to be done on Council, to move from GREAT plans to GREAT actions. 

I PROPOSE TO ADDRESS THESE ISSUES USING A SYSTEM-based APPROACH.  Lovegrovekelowna.ca has more on how I would push Council to move from vision to SMARTer Growth Actions - Sustained Liveability, Climate Action, Safety, Transport, Infrastructure, Housing & Homelessness, all through a more inclusive, accountable, and open governance framework. 

1) More Sustainable Growth Patterns - I’d push Council to make SMARTer Growth decisions, including:

• Tightly Integrated Official Community, Climate Action & Strategic Transportation Plans – I have provided numerous inputs to the various Stakeholder processes on both these plans, both individually, as a part of my time serving on your KSAN Board.  I have always pushed for Growth Scenario 3, whereby distributed density and low-rise buildings more than accommodate our future population growth, focused in our five activity centers and along high quality transit service corridors.  While the foundations are there, Council has not gone far enough, let alone followed, its OCP 2040 Plan, nor its Climate Action Plan, and approves 95% of all variance applications, including massive building height exclusions.  I have previously provided briefing papers on this to KSAN, to Kelowna Tree Protectors, and to the Kelowna Climate Coalition, which I also have been part of.  While the idea of density bonuses, social housing, and parks are noble attempts at justification, all these three elements can more than be done within the Scenario 3 and distributed growth model that I term ‘SMARTer Growth’ Neighborhood Planning and Design.  I have researched, published peer reviewed journal articles, and written / co-authored several books on SMARTer Growth principles.
• Of course, much of what I will push for on my SMARTer Growth platform also relates to and reinforces what I will push for to address our climate crisis, so I will not repeat here.  All this to say that we must take a system-based approach on our land use, transportation, and governance decisions to sustain Kelowna’s attractive quality of life.
• I have co-authored two letters to Council, asking them to declare a climate emergency.  I have provided briefing papers on the City’s recent Climate Action Report. I have advised federal Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) staff as a member of their Science Advisory Group on Climate Science 2050.  Climate Action is an area I have been involved in for years.  The City’s report is accurate but muted on how dire its gaps are between what is needed and what Council has done; however, their report fails to include enough effective budget nor policies to remedy its gaps!  The scientific evidence is overwhelming, with numerous UN reports from world experts calling for drastic action.  We must act on it; I would push for a myriad of responses in all areas of City Hall, inside and out – plant more trees; tree protection bylaws; climate lens for development approvals; higher quality and more transit and bike/walk paths to shift away from driving private vehicles; Community U-Pass (like UBCO students have, but for neighborhoods, called ComPASS, or NECO Pass in Boulder, CO, USA), building energy retrofits, new building step code 5, along with standing Council committees/task forces on Climate Action to monitor and expedite effective actions.
• Enhance local food security, tree canopies & parks – no development on ALR; find a permanent Farmers Market home; seasonal farmworker recruitment/housing – we need food security!  Modify RU-7 and other zones to maintain and build up our green rooves and tree canopies on private property, following Provincial tree replacement guidelines to ensure net positive gains!  Parks are by definition our spaces for social/recreational/spiritual connection and restoration, not to mention our eco-system/climate ‘sinks and cleansers’ – we need to adopt the EU/Dutch ratio of green space/resident, such that EVERY home is within a 1 minute walk of a park/green space!
• Air Quality – install publicly visible monitors along Hwy 97 and in our downtowns so folks know / can take precautions / and are engaged and informed on how poor our AQ really is
• Land Use – SMARTer Growth as noted above, distributed density, greener, more walkable/bikeable neighborhoods that reduce driving and promote quieter, cleaner, restorative, social environments for our families, old and young, to thrive in!
• Net Zero / Step Code Housing – Our buildings – residential, commercial and industrial amount for up to 40% of our Okanagan Valley GHG emissions and energy consumption over their life; we can reduce these impacts by over half if we simply introduce proactive building bylaws and incentive program partnerships for energy retrofits.  I designed and built in my own back yard the OK Valley’s 1st NRCan certified Net Zero Carriage House (Step Code 4/5).  I want Kelowna to immediately adopt Step Code 5 for all new homes, and partner with senior governments on accelerated audits/approvals/rebates for retrofitting existing homes toward Net Zero. There are now $5,000 grants coupled with $40,000 interest free loans to retrofit existing homes. 
• Traffic and Transportation – Transportation emissions account for up to half of all GHG emissions in our Okanagan Valley, not to mention carcinogenic particulates that have more than quadrupled the incidence of asthma in our children and premature respiratory deaths in our aged.  In addition to our noise and air pollution problems caused by driving in ‘Canada’s Car Capital’, the cost of congestion in Kelowna due to lost productivity and other delays amounts to over $4 Billion/year; therefore, reducing congestion will help reduce the cost of goods and services, thus improving affordability.  I would push several initiatives to address traffic congestion, traffic safety, noise and air pollution, including:
• Community U-Pass (ComPASS) – similar to the UBCO student U-Pass, I conducted a 3 month U-Pass trial for Glenmore residents in 2012, and found 75% of residents would participate.  ComPASS would increase net transit revenue for the City, while improving transit for all.  It has been in Boulder, CO, USA for decades.
• Roundabouts – all traffic delays and most crashes occur at intersections, which in Kelowna are largely traffic signal controlled that are inefficient, especially along Highway 97 where through-traffic provincial flows conflict with crossing Kelowna traffic flows.  Roundabouts reduce over 75% of delays and 80% of serious crashes, which translate directly to lower overall costs and GHG emissions.  Hence, I would push for a roundabouts first policy, and review if/where existing traffic signals can be retrofitted into roundabouts to reduce GHG emissions, delays, and serious crashes, as they are doing across the US and EU.
• OVER PR (EV Valley Tram-train) My vision for the Okanagan is to reconnect our communities via a zero-emission Okanagan Valley Electric Regional Passenger tram-train (OVER PR), at half the cost of building more roads, preclude the need for a 2nd crossing, and take over 30% of cars off our roads. Together with system-based land use initiatives, OVER PR would work together to reduce costs and improve productivity for your city.  It would improve our travel choices and connect our seniors, students, and low-income tourism/service/agricultural workers to more affordable housing in neighboring communities up and down our Valley (to hear/read more on my vision for OVER PR, please check my YouTube video out entitled “The Future of Sustainable Transportation”; and/or visit my UBC research website at sustainablecommunities.ok.ubc.ca).  Similar tram-trains have been running since the 1980’s in low density, rural German valleys just like our Okanagan Valley – why not here? In concert with the OVER PR valley tram-train we would integrate more and improved quality transit services, (including more community shuttle buses up Clifton and Kettle Valley), and complete city-wide bike path networks connecting to each station – all this for less than the cost of building more roads and bridges.
• Economy – I would push to see Bernard become a year-round pedestrian/bicycle Mall, and to cover it with a space frame for year-round access to keep our Downtown vibrant. This is similar to what Boulder, CO does, as well as Simon Fraser University, and would work well in concert with the influx of students and staff from UBCO’s new downtown campus.  Again, we might start with a Winter Festival like Illumi in Montreal? I would push to start discussions to do the same in Rutland, given the success we have seen with Bernard summer closers.

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Amarjit Singh-Lalli (City Council Candidate):

We are facing many issues and some of them are intertwined. Crime is front and center. To break it down are the crimes being committed being done to fulfill a need or is there a criminal intent. We have factors such as substance abuse, mental health and affordability that are contributing to the rise in crime. We need to end the catch and release system of justice. Resources are there but the system is to complicated to navigate. Better communication is need amongst users, providers and the community.

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James Kay (City Council Candidate):

Kelowna is quickly becoming an unattainable and unaffordable city for many. There are many jobs, good paying jobs, but the reality of owning or renting a home to suit lifestyle is falling behind. Increasing housing supply by re-visiting our land use planning priorities, incenting rentals and providing benefits to non-market housing built by the development community will drastically increase supply, bringing prices back down.

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Indy Dhail (City Council Candidate):

Ensuring our city is safe and accessible to those that visit and live here. Homelessness, Affordability and Crime are all factors we must focus on as a council. Finding roofs and support for those who want it, stiffer penalties for repeat offenders and creating affordable housing by focusing on supply and demand and working closely with planning and our developers to find ways to create homes that are affordable to all.

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Amrit Brar (City Council Candidate):

Note: Ms. Brar chose to do a zoom interview with the questions, therefore these answers are not verbatim, but general notes

Crime and safety: advocates for the community safety plan put in place, following recommendations from experts in the field. Housing: we need to make housing more affordable, to do this repurpose land for temporary modular housing 

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3) Kelowna is currently the fastest-growing city in B.C., with a 13.5% increase in population since 2016. How should we accommodate this growth with public infrastructure? Why would your method(s) of accommodation be most effective? 

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Luke Stack (Incumbent City Council Candidate):

It is very difficult to accommodate this level of growth. The City has developed a 10 year capital plan that identifies $1.23 billion dollars of priorities it will proceed with. I supported a new “infrastructure levy” in 2019 to help cover the costs in the 10 Year plan. I also supported a new Parks Development DCC charge to fund more parks. Even with these new charges, there remains $576 million in unfunded projects.

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Loyal Wooldridge (Incumbent City Council Candidate):

Managing growth is both a challenge and opportunity. To grow in a sustainable way, we need to focus on infrastructure that relates to housing that directly relates to transportation. We know renewal, refreshment, and infrastructure upgrades like roads and sidewalks are largely paid for by development cost charges (DCCs) – which are generated by development. Similarly, increasing density adds to cash reserves which fund affordable housing land acquisition and public realm enhancements. If development stopped tomorrow, there would be a far greater property tax demand to deliver the infrastructure and public assets that people love - like parks, roads, active transportation. There are many public benefits that come with new growth. Therefore, I believe we should continue with thoughtful develop that makes decisions for Kelowna today and into the future.

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Tom Dyas (Mayoral Candidate):

Kelowna is growing and will continue to grow, however we must manage that growth responsibility. Our community has seen a proliferation of high rise towers that were sold to us with a promise of affordability that never occurred. We need to be more thoughtful of our development, while encouraging housing types for residents, not just investors. I believe the City must incentivize and encourage more townhomes, carriage homes, and basement suites. These units are typically referred to as the missing the middle. They will allow us to accommodate significant amounts of growth, while limiting the impact on our infrastructure needs. Kelowna has also seen our property taxes increase by 30% over the last eight years, development charges increase and our tax base increase – yet we have not seen any substantial increases to public services or infrastructure. This is why it is critical to re-examine City spending through a value-for-money audit. 

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David Habib Mayoral Candidate:

As a city we must work ahead of the influx. If you are trying to catch-up, you almost never do. We had data 20 years ago to deal with this massive uptick in residents. Aging infrastructure is a very real problem. But no one wants to pay for it. My solution is ensuring we don’t mortgage the future. Immediately assess vulnerabilities and then shore up any shortfalls with a hybrid system of taxation/user base and provincial/federal grants. If anyone says they can pay for it with imaginary money that won’t affect developers, then I don’t think they are being entirely forthright.

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Gordon Lovegrove (City Council Candidate):

I posted above most of this answer.  Essentially, we need to focus growth in current serviced areas to minimize infrastructure costs.  Kelowna’s Official Community Plan 2040 has identified a growth boundary and housing areas to accommodate future growth of 50,000 new residents.  I just think we can accommodate it with tram-trains rather than more roads, in a cheaper, safer, greener way.

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Amarjit Singh-Lalli (City Council Candidate):

We need to know where the growth is coming from. Our plan has to be fluid and targeted so we can adapt. We need to take inventory and figure out what we need.

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James Kay (City Council Candidate):

Kelowna needs to benchmark its infrastructure relative to its population, in order to ensure we are funding the required improvements. We are aggressively funding transit and alternative modes of transportation such as cycling, but not keeping up with roads, water and wastewater. As a Civil Engineer, having worked at City Hall for five years, I know we must keep up. We cannot build our way out of congestion, but we must keep up. To have undrinkable water in several areas is completely unacceptable. We must invest responsibly and equitably.

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Indy Dhail (City Council Candidate):

The 1^st thing that comes up is the bridge which isn’t technically within our municipal jurisdiction, but we can work with our Mayor to ensure we are lobbying for our project to move up the Provincial To Do List. Promoting green choices that take vehicles off the Rd such as improving our transit system and focusing on bottleneck areas will be an important path for our city to invest in.

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Amrit Brar (City Council Candidate):

Note: Ms. Brar chose to do a zoom interview with the questions, therefore these answers are not verbatim, but general notes

Improve current infrastructure and fortify before we reach the point where we “have to” 

• Bikeable/Walkable - advocate for safer and better bike lanes 

• Active transit tax credit, for buying things like roller blades, bikes, etc.

• Public Transportation 

• Should be city owned, transit workers should be fairly paid, have pensions, time off, no forced overtime

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4) Kelowna’s population is predominantly between the ages of 30-65+. While also being home to a fairly large university and college, how do you suggest we could better accommodate both groups' needs simultaneously? 

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Luke Stack (Incumbent City Council Candidate):

I believe Kelowna does accommodate all age groups. We build and manage services and programs for young children, families, teens and seniors.

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Loyal Wooldridge (Incumbent City Council Candidate):

How we grow needs to be done responsibly and consider people’s social needs, economic success and safety. I would embrace a diverse demographic spread by:

• Prioritizing housing that addresses affordability through all housing forms especially below market social housing and rental tenure only.
• Prioritizing equitable public access in places like parks, sidewalks, recreation spaces with senior and youth programs.
• Ensuring there are alternate transportation options (i.e. rapid transit, active transportation connections etc.)
• Creating further partnerships with post secondary institutions to inform emerging city issues and priorities (i.e. Research groups etc.)
• Creating a Climate Change Task force to include a mix of professionals, youth and seniors that are well versed in climate change initiatives.
• Build a new, inclusive recreation facility to expand services options and promote wellness.
• Look to expedite the building of a new performing arts centre to foster culture and connection.

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Tom Dyas (Mayoral Candidate):

I believe that Kelowna’s university and older demographics are facing the exact same issues. People can’t afford rent, they don’t believe they’ll ever be able to own home here, they’re fearful for the safety of themselves and their property, and they’re stuck in traffic. Improvements to these critical issues will help all residents, regardless of their age. For example, I’m promising to expand transit services to UBCO, OC and industrial hubs, while also making investments to improve transit shelters. This will help students, low-income workers, and older residents who rely on public transit. 

David Habib (Mayoral Candidate):

You can’t possibly please everyone all the time. If you do, then you aren’t doing anything, or you don’t have a calculator because there is no way to pay for it all. I will say this: The people pursuing education are our future. These bright minds will be doctors, engineers and tradespeople who will help shape our community. The taxpayers are the ones who pay for the foundation -right now. So as a result, the priority sequence is most important. City Hall has limited resources to help everyone all the time. What I have seen is innovation by the secondary institutions to garner attention from provincial and federal levels of government to help create infrastructure for their respective campuses. I like helping those who help themselves. When we have a need for our future we will be there. But you must first not add extra burden on Kelowna taxpayers who are already asked to shoulder a great weight for too many initiatives.

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Gordon Lovegrove (City Council Candidate): 

Our strength will always be in our inclusive diversity, that is, all ages, races, genders, religions welcome.  Diversity promotes understanding and peace, and sense of community, which is the critical success factor to promote a sustainable quality of life.  Younger folks and families tend to have lower incomes and need more support from our social systems, and I wholeheartedly support this.  Older folks tend to be wealthier, have a few more life lessons to offer, but also be more frail so also starting to need more support from our health systems, which I also support.  We all must do our part to use our gifts to bless others, this is how we grow our sense of community, and community resilience.  I want to push for more affordable rental housing for all ages, as well as more affordable and equitable transport systems for all ages and all abilities, so we are a less auto-dependent community.

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Amarjit Singh-Lalli (City Council Candidate):

It starts with understanding the needs of the community. Communication is non existent. We need to look at issues that are common for both groups such as transit and make it more effective.

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James Kay (City Council Candidate):

Our University and College are hugely important to our city. It starts by supporting the housing demand so that the schools may invest in their institutions instead: increasing land use supply and preventing short-term rentals. We must provide better transportation options to and from the facilities, subsidized: transit and alternative modes. Increased parking, leveraging local unused facilities. We must engage with co-op and career offices to create research and employment opportunities to keep these bright minds in our community.

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Indy Dhail (City Council Candidate):

In my experience, we all share in similar experiences in Kelowna whether we are spending time on the water, at the beach, a local rec center or out for dinner at many of our establishments. Were I do see the challenge is things for people to do as families. Water Parks are in Vernon, most major events and shows end up in Penticton, sports tounrments in Kamloops, we need to bring more of these activities to our city.  

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Amrit Brar (City Council Candidate):

Note: Ms. Brar chose to do a zoom interview with the questions, therefore these answers are not verbatim, but general notes

• Affordable housing 
• Put a feedback system in place and have representatives from the University and the college - open line of communication 

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5) Recently Kelowna B.C. Transit workers have begun to take organised labour action because of low wages (“[...]$5-$10 less than comparable transit systems in the province[...]”), and unsustainable requests for overtime labour (“[...]between 18 and 26 per cent of average daily bus service in Kelowna runs on “unsustainable overtime labour.” Workers forced to cancel days off and vacations on a “regular basis” to fill staffing gaps[...]”). What measures will you advocate for to resolve the current problems with public transportation in Kelowna?

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Luke Stack (Incumbent City Council Candidate):

Kelowna Regional Transit operates via a partnership between BC Transit, the City of Kelowna and other regional local governments in the Central Okanagan. Public transit service is provided by FirstGroup, a transit operating company contracted by BC Transit via a competitive selection process. Although the City helps fund transit along with the Province of BC (BC Transit)  it is not an employer of Transit workers. I cannot comment on negotiations other than to encourage the two groups to find a quick resolution to the job action.

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Loyal Wooldridge (Incumbent City Council Candidate):

The contract for unionized drivers on BC Transit buses is contracted to First Transit and negotiations between the three parties don’t include a city representative at the table. This creates a challenge locally as local government, currently, does not have direct influence over negotiations. That said, the contract with First Transit expires next year and I do not support a ‘roll over’ agreement to allow them to continue service. I would fully advocate for BC Transit to review the service delivery model, include local government at the table and determine whether service should be offered directly through BC Transit or if an alternate request for proposal should be issued.

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Tom Dyas (Mayoral Candidate):

I’ve dedicated a significant amount of my platform to improving public transit in Kelowna. For a City our size, our transit ridership levels are low. For starters, I believe the City of Kelowna must advocate to take over the operating and management contract for our public transit from the current operator when it comes up for renewal next year. This would provide us with more control over staffing, compensation and averting problems te risk strikes. I’m also committed to increasing public transit service to UBCO, OC and industrial hubs, improving our transit shelters, and hiring an external firm to do a complete review of our current transit system lines and frequency with the goal of increasing ridership. 

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David Habib (Mayoral Candidate):

Public transportation is an essential service. if you can’t get to work - you can’t work. A student can’t get to their class which puts their education in jeopardy. If you are a caregiver and you don’t arrive in time, then someone’s life is in peril. I hear a lot of rhetoric regarding this strike. I don’t think anyone has properly framed how critical this issue is for Kelowna. I have resolved many conflicts that were framed as “Impossible.” The more complicated and convoluted the issue the more collaboration is needed and now.

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Gordon Lovegrove (City Council Candidate): 

Again, much of this is in my platform, downloadable from lovegrovekelowna.ca and summarized above.  We need a more local transit contractor that is invested in the success of our community and respectful of our culture and needs.  I fully support liveable wages for our transit workers, competitive with comparable transit systems.  I want to see resident U-Pass like UBC students have – ComPASS – which my research showed in 2012 to have HUGE potential to increase ridership, decrease congestion, and improve transit for all, and increase transit revenues.  I want to see a U-Pass for OC/UBCO staff and faculty.

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Amarjit Singh-Lalli (City Council Candidate):

I would advocate that BC Transit take over control of the transit system locally. Transit should be integrated with the bike share program to make transit more accessible and convenient. 

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James Kay (City Council Candidate):

This problem is not limited to local transit systems, it is systemic across many industries. The employers need to negotiate in good faith with the unions. However, there are limits to the funds available. Hiring more staff to reduce overtime is good business. Improving safety and working conditions is good business. Spreading the load so that people may enjoy their vacations and days off is essential. However, the job action is having real impacts and needs to be resolved immediately.

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Indy Dhail (City Council Candidate):

The collective bargaining process is underway and we need to work with both parties to help ratify a situation that needs to come to an end soon. We are making it even harder for people to choose public transit in a time where we it needs to be at it’s best.

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Amrit Brar (City Council Candidate):

Note: Ms. Brar chose to do a zoom interview with the questions, therefore these answers are not verbatim, but general notes

Supporter of the B.C. transit workers

• Transit should be city-owned and operated, the city should control their benefits and provide pensions 

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6) A StatsCanada report published recently declared that Kelowna’s crime rate per 100,000 residents is the highest in the country. In 2021, 30.49% of Kelowna’s municipal taxes were spent on “Community Safety,” (more than double any other sector) how would you advocate for this money to be spent to best resolve safety issues in our community? 

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Luke Stack (Incumbent City Council Candidate):

Currently funding is spent between RCMP, City Bylaws and Fire Protection. There always is pressure to increase funding in all three areas. The City must balance its need for public safety with the amount of taxes citizens are willing to pay. Each year we prioritize the area of greatest need.  

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Loyal Wooldridge (Incumbent City Council Candidate):

Safety & security are one of the top issues facing Kelowna. The increase in crime is directly linked to decades of inadequate funding for health, social and housing support. Social issues contributing to crime are complex. The solutions are not quick, cheap or easy and require continual advocacy and collaboration with other orders of government and agencies to tackle.

Key initiatives that I support include:

• Changes to the Criminal Code of Canada that hold prolific offenders to higher levels of accountability.
• Organized crime needs to be held to a higher degree of consequence.
• People with complex mental health and substance mis-use disorder need safe housing and enhanced treatment options to prevent cycles of mischief, theft, etc.
• Most importantly, to prevent at risk youth from falling through the cracks, they need to be identified early and supported with afterschool and housing options.
• Re-task the RCMP workload by deferring social issues to the appropriate social services agencies, allowing police to focus on serious crime, repeat property offenders, and violent offenders.
• Focus on housing and programs for young people aging out of foster care.
• Post-incarceration housing with services to break the cycle of criminality.
• Mental health crisis response within the 911 system.
• Peer led response to crisis.

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Tom Dyas (Mayoral Candidate):

As I mentioned in my earlier response, I believe this is the number one issue facing our City. The evidence is clear that simply hiring more RCMP officers is not solving our challenges. Four years ago, we had the sixth highest crime rate in Canada. We continue to trend in the wrong direction. I have a number of positions that I believe will help move the dial. Specifically to UBCO, I would establish an RCMP presence on campus through a community policing office. This would be similar to the RCMP officers that many of you may have had partner up with your high schools, and this is something that has been called for by the UBCO Students’ Union. Other policy initiatives that I believe will make a difference include partnering more nurses with RCMP officers, hiring and empowering our bylaw officers, creating an organized and violent crime task force, and prioritizing crime prevention through environment design. I’ll expand a bit on crime prevention through environmental design. This can take on a lot of forms, but some of it includes ensuring there are eyes on the street to prevent crime. For example, in many new developments the bicycle parking is on the side of the building away from the entrance and foot traffic. With less eyes on the bicycle parking, it becomes an easier target for criminals. I believe we need to utilize our environmental design to prevent crime as best as possible. 

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David Habib (Mayoral Candidate):

What’s clear to me is what we are currently doing is not working. Inefficiencies will be reviewed and acted upon. I don’t think anyone will disagree that Kelowna is at a pivotal point in its history. We could be a shining example of safety and innovative solutions. I have worked hand in hand with law enforcement and it is imperative they are given the tools to do their job effectively. Legally there is more advocacy work that needs to be pushed forward, but fundamentally we have the same uptick in crime and there is a palatable apathy coming from City Hall. This disappoints me, and with my record of creating a safer environment downtown, I think I am inherently qualified to tackle this issue head-on.

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Gordon Lovegrove (City Council Candidate): 

Budget and implement the Community Safety Plan immediately.  Kelowna's first ever CSP has five priority areas (crime prevention, domestic violence, housing, mental health/addictions, racism).  I applaud it, especially the evidence-based links to mental health/ addiction, and housing/homelessness.  Given my housing/safety/ CPTED expertise, I hope to sit on its Stewardship Team, partnering with our community experts – police, justice, residents, shelters, CMHA.

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Amarjit Singh-Lalli (City Council Candidate):

There has to be a community approach. We need minimum to month sentences. During this time the individual would be required to take life counseling and live in a structured environment. There is no one solution that will solve everything. our actions have to be targeted.

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James Kay (City Council Candidate):

The city needs to listen to the experts and follow established best practices with regards to crime and community safety. We can lobby the province for stricter court action on repeat offenders; work with the RCMP to ensure they have the supports they need, advocate for supportive housing, mental health and addiction supports, etc. However, within our city, within our control, we need to give Bylaws Officers the mandate to be a force for good, organize and support neighbourhood watch associations to engage the public in this cause, crack down on resellers and purveyors of stolen goods, increase bait bike and property identification programs. We need to give citizens a path to get involved and be partof the solution.

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Indy Dhail (City Council Candidate):

I think we need to review what is in place and see what is working and what isn’t. the goal would be to continue to fund what is working and review what isn’t and start making decisions on were the remaining money could be refocused too. Additionally, we need to find ways to stop some of these issues at the root by introducing programs that provide alternate paths from the one these individuals are already on.

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Amrit Brar (City Council Candidate):

Note: Ms. Brar chose to do a zoom interview with the questions, therefore these answers are not verbatim, but general notes

• Implementation of the Community Safety Plan 
• More healthcare workers and R.C.M.P. 
• Federal and provincial funding, and experience-based solutions 

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7) What is your favourite part about Kelowna and why? What will you do to strengthen this aspect of our city?

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Luke Stack (Incumbent City Council Candidate):

My focus in the next 4 years is to advance recreation facilities in Kelowna. The City is in great need of sports fields, baseball diamonds, ice rinks, pickleball courts and the replacement of the Parkinson Recreation Centre and pool. These are major undertakings and will use up a lot of Capital spending. 

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Loyal Wooldridge (Incumbent City Council Candidate):

Kelowna is a natural beautiful place to live with an unprecedented evolution over the past 8 years. There is immense opportunity in welcoming the shifts that realize investment into people, diversity in culture, new public spaces, and business opportunities. Many of these investments come with a reduced demand for taxes from local residents while offering new services and infrastructure for people yet to be born. The Okanagan is in a state of discovery and while change can be hard, the city is likely to grow and by collaborating and working together we can shape Kelowna in a way that future generations will be proud to enjoy. I continually seek to strengthen these opportunities by remaining dedicated to learning, keeping an open mind to new innovations and adapting my perspectives based on new information that I learn

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Tom Dyas (Mayoral Candidate):

The best part of Kelowna is the community. I was lucky enough to raise my family here and create a successful business. This community has been incredibly generous to me and that’s why I want to give back. I don’t need this job, but I want it because I can see the positive changes we can make for our community to improve so much of what’s been missed in the last eight years. For too long too many of our community voices have been ignored. People can’t meetings with the Mayor, experts aren’t given fair opportunities to have their voices heard, residents who speak out against developments have been belittled at public hearings, and as a result our sense of community is fading. As Kelowna’s next Mayor I will strive to create an inclusive community where I am there to listen. I know I’m not an expert in everything, and that’s why my door will always be open. 

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David Habib (Mayoral Candidate):

Kelowna has some of the most generous and kind people you will ever meet. They are its most precious resource. They deserve a safe community full of opportunity where our most vulnerable are cared for. Sometimes we think we are alone with the issues that Kelowna faces. But they can be tackled. What is needed is a tenacious resolve that I possess. Courageous leadership solves a lot of problems.

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Gordon Lovegrove (City Council Candidate): 

Its beautiful environment: Parks, farms, creeks, Lake, and treed streets and properties.  We MUST increase Kelowna’s tree canopy and green space.  It is our shade to reduce our heat island.  It is our carbon sink and oxygen generator.  It is our food supply.  It is our safe drinking water.  It is our tourism economy.  It is why we love to live here!  I will push for climate action, an immediate climate crisis declaration that involves major tree planting investments, improved transit/less car driving, more parks city-wide, ALR protection/permanent farmers’ market home, and more pedestrian scale tourism events in our downtown areas!

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Amarjit Singh-Lalli (City Council Candidate):

Our citizens make this community great. We need to make sure that we are always inclusive. I have been doing educational tours for school district 23 students for the past 16 years. I am passionate about building the next generation of leaders.

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James Kay (City Council Candidate):

I love exploring different quadrants of our city, to watch people living, working and playing here in our great City. We have so much natural beauty, so many recreational opportunities, educational facilities, health supports, employment and career possibilities. We allow people to thrive and succeed; survive and improve. We need to address the key obstacles around cost of living, crime, and efficient City Hall, living within our means, so that we pay for what we need, and do not pass along debt to the next generation.

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Indy Dhail (City Council Candidate):

I love the outdoors and being able to play sports year around. There are waitlists and accessibility issues that I’ve found challenging for my family and I’d like to promote more active living choices for all ages.

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Amrit Brar (City Council Candidate):

Note: Ms. Brar chose to do a zoom interview with the questions, therefore these answers are not verbatim, but general notes

• Ethnic diversity and small business 
• Seasonal Recreation and Activities, Natural Beauty 
• Put more money into recreation and community events 

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Questionnaire #2 - Cade Desjarlais, SUO - VP External 

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1) What qualifies you to be an effective city councillor/mayor? (200-word max.)

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Maxine Dehart (Incumbent City Council Candidate): 

I have been a Kelowna City Councillor since 2011. I have been a Director of the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and a Director on the Central Okanagan Regional District. I have worked at a senior level in Kelowna’s tourism industry for 35 years. I feel I have a very strong knowledge of our city and its residents. I listen to the public and take the time to understand what their needs are. I make decisions for the city as a whole and always try to be accessible and responsive to taxpayers.  I also have a very social conscious and invented the Maxine DeHart – United Way, Ramada Hotel Drive-Thru Breakfast that is now its 21^st year, raising close to $1,000,000 for the United Way and our community. This year the event is Thursday, October 6^th, 2022. 

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Charlie Hodge (Incumbent City Council Candidate):

I have 14 years City council experience and 13 years on regional district as well as three with Southern Interior Municipal Association. I am a good listener and communicator and believe I represent the average person.

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Greg Dahms (City Council Candidate): 

As a parent and long time resident in the Okanagan, I have witnessed many of the problems we are facing like higher cost of living, homelessness and urban sprawl. Having run a local business with two locations in Kelowna I created new jobs, protected our environment through recycling and upcycling as well as worked closely with our local SPCA shelter to raise funds and awareness for the safety of animals.

I understand how difficult it is today for young adults and students to live in Kelowna from the high cost of rent, food inflation, tuition etc. Over the past few years, I have had the pleasure of speaking with many of our local residents and asking about their concerns and possible solutions to the problems facing Kelowna today.  I believe my willingness to listen, learn and take action, as well as my business and community background, make me a strong choice for city council.

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Zach Sawatzky (City Council Candidate): 

I have the passion needed for a serving role such as city councillor. I have 17+ years of professional experience which taught me how to generate net new revenue and negotiate in such a way that drives bottom line growth for the city. I have a strong understanding of our worlds geo political and global macro issues which absolutely affect each and every one of us who live in Kelowna. If we don’t have individuals such as me on council who understand and can foresee the negative global headwinds coming our way, we will undoubtably end up in a reactionary state versus proactive state. It’s time we start building on initiatives that build up our community versus political initiatives that have a positive outcome for only a small number of people directly connected to such events, such as mandating that builders use three pane windows versus two panes. The cost savings on energy using a three pane versus a 2 pane wouldn’t even pay for the additional manufacturing costs to producing a three-pane window even if you used it for more than 70 years. Simply, mandating this type of political initiative is a net negative cost to the consumer. I’m easily accessible and want to hear from anyone with any ideas and or initiatives you think would benefit Kelowna’s longevity.

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Davis Kyle (City Council Candidate): 

I have the platform, ideas, and energy needed to make Kelowna a more affordable, livable, and safe community. I have attended council meetings since November 2021, studied the issues and solutions for planning, housing affordability, and public safety, and am ready to hit the ground running.

I am passionate about student issues like transportation, rental housing, and jobs, because I've been there. I'm the youngest candidate in the race. I lived with 15 roommates in 4 cities during university, switching homes 6 times, while desperately trying to find illegal suites or sublets for the next semester. I've been renovicted;  I've lived in basements with safety issues. I want to be a voice who brings the lived experience of dealing with the housing crisis.

I work in financial management for PSPC - everything I do is focused on effective results for taxpayers. Kelowna has been home since 2003, I received a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Victoria, and moved back after working for a family-run company in Victoria.

 I volunteer every Saturday with the Central Okanagan Food Bank, I'm a Director with the Kelowna Area Cycling Coalition, I sing with the Okanagan Festival Singers, and play soccer at the CNC. 

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2) Do you support the UBCO expansion downtown? Why or why not? (100-word max.)

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Maxine Dehart (Incumbent City Council Candidate): 

Yes, I supported the UBCO expansion downtown when it came to council. Years ago, UBCO representatives from Vancouver came to interview several citizens in our community.  I was lucky enough to be one of those business people that was interview.  Way back then, I felt we needed to have a downtown campus and am proud that I voted for it and that it is going to be a reality.

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Charlie Hodge (Incumbent City Council Candidate):

Yes I think it is fabulous. An active campus downtown benefits both the university and the City. It is important to have youth and vitality in the heart of the community and the university benefits from being part of the business community and downtown cores.  I am opposed to the extreme height, however.

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Greg Dahms (City Council Candidate) : 

Yes I will always support education and having a downtown campus is a great addition to our post secondary education options.  We certainly need more student housing out by UBCO as well as a need for student housing at the new downtown campus, but I do not support a 43 story building in our downtown core.  I believe it will be adding to our traffic issues, parking issues etc.  We have existing problems facing our students from affordability to transit and a 43 story profit based building downtown does not solve these issues.

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Zach Sawatzky (City Council Candidate): 

It is great to see the UBCO campus robust and growing. 

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Davis Kyle (City Council Candidate): 

Yes, I was the only non-incumbent to organize in favor of the UBCO Tower at the public hearing. Student housing is so crucial and personal to me that I have no choice but to always support it, even when that causes pushback from my friends and allies who disagree based on climate or firefighting issues. I was publicly critical of councilor Hodge when he voted against the project on the basis that it would cause harm to other landlords, and am glad to see that city council recognized the tremendous benefit this brings to our students, workers, and city

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3) What are your plans to address the lack of affordable housing in Kelowna? (200-word max.)

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Maxine Dehart (Incumbent City Council Candidate): 

The City of Kelowna has little control over the housing market and the demand for housing in this area. We can only provide help to build more diverse types of housing for rental or purchase., including condominiums, townhomes, single-family dwellings, carriage homes and suites. The more housing on the market will allow the market to adjust in the right direction. We also need to constantly be reassessing our permitting and development processes and how they affect the cost of housing.  I have supported every good rental housing development application that has come forward to city council and intend to continue to do so.

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Charlie Hodge (Incumbent City Council Candidate):

We have been working hard with rental housing options and zoning to provide for it and shall continue to do so. We often call for rental only or a rental percentage in projects coming forward for approval. I’d be willing to look at further incentives or bonuses to builders and developers as well.  Council could also find a form of benefits to homeowners who agree to rent to folks on low income – perhaps with tax breaks or subsidies. Currently some homeowners are afraid to rent as once a tenant has moved in they can not be forced to leave (if they do not pay rent or cause problems). That needs to be resolved if we want more secondary suites or rooms to be made available on the market.

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Greg Dahms (City Council Candidate): 

Just recently the provincial government announced new programs directed to deal directly with the problem of affordable housing.  This is a great start and interesting that this announcement comes during the campaign period for the upcoming municipal elections.  Holding our provincial government accountable to the proposed changes and programs will be the first step.  Working with developers, BC Housing and other community groups to help create an action plan to create and built more affordable housing in Kelowna will be the next step.  We need to make the process easier and less expensive in order to increase the number of affordable units in a shorter time.

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Zach Sawatzky (City Council Candidate): 

I am suggesting the council revisit the OCP and consider adjusting and or removing the permanent growth boundary the city has currently set in place limiting our city’s options and negatively affecting our community’s cost of real estate. I will make this clear so there is no confusion, the city council has a very small influence on the overall price of real estate in Kelowna. The zoning is our largest tool available to affect housing affordability but the rates at which the central banks set interest rates are out of any municipality’s hands and impact housing affordability far more than the city will ever be able to do. Remember the city is incentivised to maintain a healthy real estate price as most of their taxes and fees come directly from Kelowna real estate and development. This is the main reason I push hard for the city to find new ways to generate income apart from raising taxes and fees. Should the housing market ever correct itself that would be a substantial drop in fees and taxes collected and reduced operating revenue for the city.  

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Davis Kyle (City Council Candidate): 

Two issues: Housing Affordability  and a lack of Affordable Housing:

1)

• End Exclusionary Zoning:  Legalize missing-middle multifamily housing options so that seniors can choose to age in place and middle-class families can afford to raise their kids in starter homes. Boosts supply for market-rate rentals.
• Toxic Demand: Tighten and enforce short-term rental restrictions to only allow basement suites only during the summer while lobbying for increased powers to deal with empty homes and investment units
• Transit-Oriented Development:  Legalize mid-rises around frequent transit corridors to reduce traffic.
• Bylaw Reform: Lower rental costs by repealing unfunded mandates like Section 8 of the zoning bylaw & equalizing DCCs per development type to end the luxury home bias
• Mixed-Use Development:  Legalize the redevelopment of strip malls into mixed-use retail  / apartment buildings.

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2)

• Fund Land Acquisition:  Increase the affordable housing land acquisition for BC Housing & Community projects Cross-Subsidized Housing:
• Remove barriers & costs for non-profit homebuilders who make income-geared affordable housing for seniors and low-income earners.
• Renter Protection: Lobby through UBCM for renoviction protection for current tenants with policies similar to those in Vancouver under the Broadway plan
• Lobby for the power to switch from Property Taxes to LVT on a revenue-neutral basis

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4) The student community makes up more than 10% of the population in Kelowna. How student- facing do you believe the council is, and is this population taken into consideration when decisions are made? How important are students to you? (200-word max)

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Maxine Dehart (Incumbent City Council Candidate): 

I think that by supporting the UBCO Campus downtown says that I definitely believe that students are important to our community. Over the years, many students from both UBCO and the college have reached out to me for many reasons and help, whether it be because of my diverse and long-time business and tourism background, social events, or my long -time media and board experience.  I have been happy to engage with all of them over the years.  Students are our future!  

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Charlie Hodge (Incumbent City Council Candidate):

Very important – students are literally our future. I’d like to see us form a youth council as some communities have, though that is a minor player. I would also consider having quarterly meetings with the student union to hear issues and concerns.

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Greg Dahms (City Council Candidate): 

I am not sure how student facing the council is as I have no statistics or information regarding requests or concerns by the student population.  However what the present council has stated during this campaign is that student housing and cost of living as well as tuition is a concern for most students.  These are all valid concerns and if I am elected to council I would be more than open to listen, learn and work with students, and our education institutions to find solutions to these challenges our youth are facing.

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Zach Sawatzky (City Council Candidate): 

Our youth are the future and of the utmost importance to every community. We need you. I want to be a councillor that our students can trust will listen to them and hear theiur ideas and encourage their input in creating the future that is best for everyone in Kelowna. I love learning history and history has countless examples that age is just a number. If you are free and willing to learn and grow in responsibility you, our youth, can contribute the largest impact for good in our communities.

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Davis Kyle (City Council Candidate): 

I don’t feel that student issues are taken seriously. I promise to always be available for AMAs on r/Kelowna, to be active on Twitter  to respond to questions, and to host town hall forums for students. 

I recognize the urgency of making life easier for all residents through regulatory changes or investments in services & infrastructure. When it comes to housing, we haven't seen the actions other cities have taken. 

Transit is a huge issue in Kelowna. The current transit is slow, unreliable, infrequent, and underfunded by this council. Worse yet, the profits made off of our taxpayers and riders go to a Swedish private investment firm that underpays our drivers. We need to re-home transit back to Kelowna while investing in Bus-Rapid-Transit principles like signal priority, double-door electronic boarding, and high frequency. We also must make transit-oriented development and zoning plans for future Light Rail corridors. 

Solutions:

• Ward voting system to empower student-rich areas to send good representatives to city council
• Expert advisory committees on Transportation, Housing, Climate, and Economic Growth to develop more ideas to help students
• Lived-experience council working groups for equity-seeking groups such as LGBTQ+, Visible minorities, students, and people with disabilities

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5) Property crime and theft is rising in the UBCO community. How can the City of Kelowna ensure adequate resources are dedicated to the safety of the UBCO area? (200-words max.)

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Maxine Dehart (Incumbent City Council Candidate): 

During my time on council, we have  given huge resources to the RCMP and Bylaw officers. Public safety affects how we live, work and play. I will also continue to lobby the provincial government to change the laws to keep repeat offenders off our streets. I will work with other governments regarding mental health, work with community and police to make all residents feel safe in their homes, on campus, in their businesses and ensure people of all ages and walks of life and abilities can enjoy our city lifestyle safely and affordably. 

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Charlie Hodge (Incumbent City Council Candidate):

Even though they eat 25% of our budget we have no control over where the RCMP patrol. However we have and can continue in the future to lobby them to boost patrols there. Sorry but that is the honest answer. Security is a UBCO issue on UBCO property however I believe a ‘campus police force’ or small RCMP police facility might be an option.

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Greg Dahms (City Council Candidate): 

These security issues are not just localized to UBCO, they are occuring all across the city.  The city of Kelowna is working hard to find ways to deal with this ever growing problem.  That said we still need to do more.  We need to take a more proactive approach.  One idea is that the city could work with the University and college to find ways to hire more security.  However security should also come from the university itself.  Students pay high tuitions and rents for accomodation, for this they deserve to feel safe when they live, study and go to and from class on campus.  The University should do more to help keep students safe.

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Zach Sawatzky (City Council Candidate): 

The first place I would look is addressing the staffing shortage Kelowna is currently facing within their law enforcement. Our officers are often forced to work overtime and operate below the minimum staffing threshold which adds additional strain. The city needs to adequately ensure resources are available to our law enforcement unit so they can address this staffing issue. Like housing affordability Kelowna itself is at the mercy of the federal and provincial homelessness and crime initiatives/funding. Kelowna has the resources to solve these types of problems, but we need the right individuals on council to ask the right questions and I believe I can help drive some bottom-line change for the good in this area.

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Davis Kyle (City Council Candidate): 

I support both hiring RCMP officers and PACT Teams to make sure that Kelowna has a well-rounded public safety strategy. Implementing the Community Safety Plan is part of the spectrum of changes Kelowna needs. If requested by the SUO and UBCO, I would support a PACT or RCMP satellite office in the campus area, similar to the SRO KSS had when I was attended

Obviously there have been a number of high-profile incidents at UBCO or the rail trail during the last council term. I simultaneously support the RCMP body-camera program while advocating for hiring additional officers; I also recognize that mental health nurses or professionals can be best-equipped for some calls. 

I'm a supporter of affordable housing and a housing first model, particularly with the wrap-around services, treatments and supports that people with mental health issues, addiction, and/or homelessness need. Housing is the fundamental baseline necessary for further support, and I'd look to the provincial government for leadership on complex issues such as involuntary care. I support the Complex Needs Care, Community Court, and affordable housing policies that this council has supported directly or indirectly through lobbying, but I recognize that theft and vandalism must be dealt with. 

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Candidate Bios -Mya Zanatta: 

*Note: All information and quotes are attributed to candidates' public platforms or social media which can be found in full here: https://www.kelowna.ca/city-hall/city-government/elections/election-candidates 

If a candidate did not have a public platform, it has been specified within the bio where the information can be found. 

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Incumbent Mayor Colin Basran: 

Colin Basran is the incumbent Mayor of Kelowna. Elected in 2014, Basran would be best described by his financial policy. This includes, but is not limited to, keeping tax increases to a minimum and encouraging fiscal responsibility by conducting yearly “Value for Money” audits on city services. If re-elected, Basran plans to build a new transit facility and improve recreation facilities to strengthen Kelowna's art and culture. 

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Incumbent Council Member Ryan Donn:

Ryan Donn, elected to City Council in 2014, is not running for re-election in 2022. Thank you for your service, Ryan. We wish you the best in your future endeavors!

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Incumbent Council Member Gail Given:

City Councilor Gail Given, first elected in 2011, is currently up for re-election for a fourth term. During Given’s time as councillor, she has worked on several foundational planning documents for Kelowna’s future such as the “2040 Transportation Master Plan,” “2040 Official Community Plan,” and the development of the current “Community Safety Plan.” Given’s platform focuses on creating strong business community, economy, and social safety nets. 

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Incumbent Council Member Brad Sieben:

Elected to City Council in 2014, Brad Sieben is not running for re-election in 2022. Thank you for your service, Brad. We wish you the best in your future endeavors!

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Incumbent Council Member Mohini Singh: 

Mohini Singh, former journalist and Incumbent City Councilor since 2011, is running for re-election for a fourth term. Singh lists her priorities as safety, affordable housing, environmental preservation, and public transportation. She has also mentioned the importance of public green spaces, inexpensive child care, and more public events. 

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Mayoral Candidate Glendon Charles Smedly:

Glendon Charles Smedly has no public platform, this bio is therefore written based on information found on his Twitter - @glendonsmedly. On his Twitter, Smedly shows an alliance with the Conservative Party of Canada and advocates for freedom of speech. He also has stated a sceptical opinion of COVID-19 measures such as masks, as well as his disbelief in climate change.

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Mayoral Candidate Silverado Socrates: 

Silverado Socrates identifies herself as a politically independent candidate. Socrates' platform centres mostly around her life story and interests, but progresses to a few main platform points. These include community building, job creation, and “get[ting] beyond the typical 2- 4 year election cycle.” 

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City Council Candidate Susan Ames: 

Susan Ames has collected over 30 years of experience in environmental consulting and has earned her PhD in Biology with a focus on climate change and reclamation of acid-generating mine wastes. Ames claims that, as councillor, she will focus on public safety, housing affordability, traffic congestion, and environmental sustainability. 

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City Council Candidate Chris Becenko: 

Chris Becenko has a simple, catchy, one-point platform summed up best by Becenko himself: “Make Kelowna Affordable Again.” Becenko lays out a five-point plan summarizing how he plans to advocate for this, including but not limited to, moving development away from the waterfront, imposing empty home taxes, and capping short-term rentals, such as Airbnbs. 

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City Council Candidate Chris Bocskei:

Long-time Rutland resident and small business owner Chris Bocskei is running for city council. Bocksei advocates for safety initiatives such as hiring more police and social workers, night patrolling, security patrolling, and mandatory registration of bikes stored on city property. He also advocates for a focus on infrastructure, like improving and maintaining bike lanes and sidewalks, and creating more space for public parking. His platform also mentions advocating for affordable housing. 

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City Council Candidate(s) Susan Collecutt and Chris Williams “Spirit Alliance”: 

The “Spirit Alliance” is comprised of two separate City Council candidates: Susan Collecutt and Chris Williams.Their combination in this instance is a reflection of their joint online platform. Williams and Cullecutt with backgrounds in the R.C.M.P. and counseling respectively, have a comprehensive platform covering most issues, from economics to mental health. Their website claims that “the classification of psychological disorders as mental illness is scientific distraction [...]” and refers to mental health classifications as “made up” conditions. Public safety is addressed as a concern within their platform as well. Their proposed solution is higher police recruitment. They also advocate for privatization of healthcare, a greater connection to nature, and “implement[ing] the effective strategies and solutions of countries that have virtually eliminated homelessness.” 

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City Council Candidate Daniel Joseph:

Daniel Joseph is a city council candidate focusing heavily on building a more connected Kelowna. Joseph has developed an infrastructure plan titled “Smartergrowth” which highlights a lot of new ideas in public infrastructure planning, such as increasing affordable housing by “creat[ing] [...]low and midrise housing complexes[,] located in walkable neighbourhoods.” “Smartergrowth” also recommends a Hydrail system as a new form of public transit: “compared to roads, Hydrail is 10% of the cost, safer, cleaner, quieter and supports community climate change action plans in the Okanagan Valley.” 

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City Council Candidate Elaine McMurray: 

Elaine McMurray, Kelowna’s citizen of the year in 2020, in recognition of her extensive volunteer work in her retirement, is now running for city council. McMurray has three significant points to her platform: community safety, housing, and environmental sustainability. Community safety-wise, McMurray advocates for improving street markings with glow paint, hospital discharge planning, and 24/7 police and crisis teams. Her ideas for sustainability include water bottle filling stations throughout the city, E.V. charging stations, and “improved planning for parks and open spaces[.]” 

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City council Candidate Daniel Ben Norman:

Candidate Daniel Ben Norman has no official platform, therefore this bio was written based on his answers to a questionnaire posted on Castanet.net. Norman believes that “food production and food security is [...] of paramount importance for all Kelowna citizens[.]” One of his plans to remedy this includes subsidies to encourage private land/homeowners to encourage the building and maintenance of garden boxes for sustainable food production. Norman also advocates for a “0.139% surcharge on all development proposals approved by city council[.]” 

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City Council Candidate Brian Rogers: 

Brian Rogers has no formal platform, therefore this bio was written based on his Kelowna Capital News interview for his 2021 election cycle. Rogers previously ran for the position of Member of Parliament for the People’s Party of Canada, and is now  running once again, this time for city council. Rogers's campaign was defined largely by his opposition to mask mandates and vaccine passports. When asked about his ideas about climate change, Rogers was quoted as saying he “[...] reject[s] the climate alarmists’ views on the subject.” Rogers's main focus seems to be governmental accountability. 

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City Council Candidate Dan Schlosser: 

Dan Schlosser, a former member of Central Okanagan Search and Rescue, is currently running for city council. Schlosser, in his platform, provides suggestions for better public transit, infrastructure, more policing, expanding emergency services, and providing “more affordable housing such as townhouses, condos/apartments, secondary suites, and carriage houses[.]” 

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City Council Candidate Anthony Shephard: 

Anthony Shephard, running for city council, uses his platform to outline key issues he sees in Kelowna. These include development, infrastructure, agriculture, crime, affordable housing, and transportation. Shephard would be best described as “tough on crime” saying “[i]f you steal, vandalize or commit a violent act, you must be caught, arrested, prosecuted and punished severely PERIOD.” He also advocates for officers on buses to ensure riders are paying their fare, as well as possibly testing free transit to increase ridership. He says “[i]f we aren't prepared to enforce the rules, then we should get rid of them.” 

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City Council Candidate Peter Truch:

Peter Truch, former Transportation and Mobility Manager, is running for city council. Truch’s ideas include sustainable development measures such as making new developments within a 15-minute walk from daily essentials, as well as developing housing in low-cost areas to address the affordable housing crisis. Truch also advocates for political engagement and governmental transparency, and measures to help reduce Kelowna’s carbon footprint. 

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City Council Candidate Rick Webber: 

Former news anchor Rick Webber is running for a position on city council. Webber has no formal platform, therefore this bio is written with the information provided to Castanet in response to their questionnaire. Webber advocates for traffic congestion measures, such as overpasses to eliminate traffic lights. Webber also recommends maintaining growth to achieve affordability within Kelowna. 

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City Council Candidate Noel Wentworth: 

Noel Wentworth, former Vice president of Education and Media at Wentworth Music in Kelowna, is running for city council. Wentworth’s platform focuses on three key issues: safety, security and infrastructure. Safety-wise, Wentworth advocates for hiring more R.C.M.P. “as well as other initiatives to help our community feel more protected and safe.” For security, Wentworth recommends the construction of a complex care facility to support the city’s most vulnerable. Finally, as for infrastructure, Wentworth states he is “[...] committed to supporting alleviating the bottlenecks and finding permanent ways to disperse traffic[,]” as well as “[...] supporting attainable first step housing[.]” 

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City Council Candidate Bal Grewal: 

Bal Grewal is running for city council. Grewal is a lawyer who has earned a Juris Doctorate from a Canadian law school. Grewal supports local agriculture, and subscribes to the “100-mile club” theory of sustainable production. Grewal is also a supporter of local art and culture, saying that “[...] a lively arts and culture scene is important and that it is an opportunity to grow an industry and create local jobs.” Green spaces also hold importance to Grewal as spaces for community and culture, as well as to help reduce Kelowna’s carbon footprint. 

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