Vernon mayoral and council candidates hold public forum

Candidates for mayor and city council in Vernon participated in a public forum hosted by the Sustainable Environment Network Society (SENS) at the Vernon Performing Arts Centre. Most candidates attended, though Dauna Kennedy and Kari Statham were unable to be present.

Environmental issues, including a historic drought and wildfire risks, were central themes of the discussion. Candidate Wayne Carson emphasized the need for better structural protection to prevent homes and vehicles from burning during wildfires. Other candidates discussed the city’s Official Community Plan (OCP), with Dustin Griffin highlighting the importance of reducing travel distances between residential and service areas, and Amy Klassen advocating for improved walking, cycling, and transit networks.

Additional topics included provincial building code laws and the potential for solar panel mandates, as suggested by incumbent councillor Akbal Mund. Candidate Diana Wilson expressed a desire for better community education and visual methods to measure environmental progress.