Individuals who have declared their candidacy to pursue a seat on City of Powell River council or become mayor have seen who is running against them and are evaluating their chances of winning. Each has until Friday, September 21, to withdraw from the race, which culminates with the general election on Saturday, October 20.
Three candidates are looking to be elected mayor, including incumbent Dave Formosa, who won by acclamation in 2014, and challengers Glenn Holstine and Ron Woznow.
Four current city councillors are seeking reelection. Maggie Hathaway and Jim Palm, the longest serving members on the current council, are seeking a fourth term, while CaroleAnn Leishman and Rob Southcott are running for their second.
With three-term councillor Russell Brewer and one-term councillor Karen Skadsheim choosing not to run again, the race is between those sitting councillors and the following contenders who bring a broad range of experience to the campaign:
William Ashworth has made unsuccessful runs for council and mayor in past elections; he moved to Powell River when he was seven years old. He stands for neighbours and family, and to maintain integrity, respect, loyalty and trust.
George Doubt served on the Telecommunications Workers Union executive for 15 years, the last six of those as president. He has been a resident of Powell River since 2014.
Allan Drummond’s campaign is focused on resolving the Inn at Westview controversy, as well as affordable housing, finances and taxation, infrastructure and businesses development. He has lived in Powell River for 51 years.
Cindy Elliot has sat on Powell River Therapeutic Riding Association’s board of directors, holds a bachelor of arts in economics from University of Victoria, was a regional economic development officer for the province and manager of aboriginal relations for BC Ministry of Forests and Alberta Environment.
Kelli Gallagher is running as a mother, artist and learner who has experience in public service through support work for people with mental and physical barriers, and through volunteerism in areas of social and environmental justice. She has lived in Powell River for 10 years.
Terry Noreault is a former Powell River Public Library chief librarian and previously worked in developing software for technology companies where he served on numerous executive management teams. He also has project and financial management experience and has lived in Powell River since 2010.
Art Richards sits on Powell River Child, Youth and Family Services Society’s board of directors. He retired as a pneumatics expert 10 years ago and has lived in Powell River for five years. He was a Cub Scout leader for 10 years and a soccer coach for nine.
Roger Whittaker owns TV That’s Powell River, which broadcasts and livestreams city council and qathet Regional District meetings. His priorities include attracting young families to Powell River, growing the resource economy, development and civic safety.
Sharon Wright has lived in Powell River for 30 years and volunteered with a variety of community groups, including as Powell River Pro-Life Society president. Her priorities are ferry service, low-cost housing and bringing more higher paying jobs to the city.
