Penticton’s recent all-candidates forum was an unexpected hit, leaving attendees buzzing with excitement. Before a crowd of about 100, seven candidates showcased their passion for the community during the only public forum ahead of the byelection on April 5, prompted by the departure of former council member Amelia Boultbee.
The event, organized by the Penticton and Wine Country Chamber of Commerce and led by executive director Michael Magnusson, tackled pressing local issues. Candidates discussed public safety, the high cost of living, housing affordability, local economic health, and climate change. Instead of heated debates, the atmosphere was surprisingly friendly, culminating in warm high-fives among participants and applause from the audience.
Candidate Juliana Buitenhuis noted that all seven candidates genuinely care about Penticton. “It’s exciting to realize how much we have in common,” she said, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement. She urged local residents to vote, stating, “If people don’t voice their opinions, we can’t represent them effectively.”
Candidates’ Insights
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Bradley Bartsch: Previously a Green Party candidate, Bartsch is keen on making Penticton more livable. He draws from his experience in managing significant budgets and community service projects, highlighting his commitment to ensuring everyone’s voice is heard in local governance.
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Aaron Baisarowicz: A lifelong resident, Baisarowicz understands the challenges that businesses face. He advocates for a council that prioritizes community needs over personal agendas, aiming to make bureaucratic processes easier for businesses.
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Riley Thompson: At just 24, Thompson brings youthful energy to the race. His love for Penticton, shaped by personal experiences, fuels his desire to see the community thrive. He emphasizes that local governance impacts daily lives more than provincial or federal decisions.
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Nick Stulberg: With a political science degree, Stulberg aims to infuse democratic values into city governance. He’s focused on making Penticton more inclusive and sustainable while safeguarding the environment.
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Ankid Sachdeva: As a newcomer to Penticton, Sachdeva is passionate about bridging gaps in the community. He focuses on safety and housing, proposing innovative solutions like a ferry service to connect local cities while advocating for social equity.
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Jason Reynen: A local business owner, Reynen believes in pragmatic leadership. He aims to align council decisions with community reality, emphasizing safety, affordability, and the need for responsible growth.
- Juliana Buitenhuis: Experienced in urban planning, Buitenhuis is driven by her love for Penticton. She aims to bring her strong background in community service to the council, championing inclusivity.
Community Engagement
Research shows that local elections can have a powerful impact on community engagement. According to a recent study by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, participation in local elections tends to be lower than in national elections. This calls for increased efforts to motivate residents to participate actively. Engaging with voters early can set the stage for a more participatory democratic process.
In a world where disillusionment with politics often runs high, Penticton’s forum demonstrated that local governance can be approachable and impactful. Candidates like Buitenhuis and Bartsch remind us that even small actions—like showing up to vote—can lead to significant change. As the byelection approaches, the atmosphere around Penticton suggests a community ready to voice its priorities and work towards a collective future.
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