Another bank takes Kamloops mayor to court as debts climb

The hole is deeper for the mayor of Kamloops as a second bank files in court over an unpaid debt.

The Bank of Nova Scotia is taking Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson to court over $103,111.92 in unpaid credit card debt, according to a notice of claim filed in BC Supreme Court.

Combined with an unpaid line of credit with Beem Credit Union, that makes for $551,051 in known debts weighing on the mayor before his mounting court costs.

In his own words, it’s “no secret” he’s in a difficult financial situation.

The mayor has faced several pay cuts over the course of his mayoral term, with more on the way, and he paused operations at his car dealership when he was elected in October 2022.

Along with the debts owed to both banks, he owes his previous lawyer, Daniel Coles, around $42,000 for unpaid legal fees and was taken to court by his other previous lawyer, Dave McMillan, over $35,000 in fees. The results of the latter case remain sealed by the court.

He’s also facing a potential court order to repay Coun. Katie Neustaeter her legal fees for his failed defamation case, while she’s also seeking $10,000 in damages. The extent of those legal costs aren’t known, but they’re due in court next month.

Including McMillan’s allegedly unpaid legal costs, Hamer-Jackson’s known debts are more than $620,000.

The mayor’s home, business property and boat are listed for sale and he said the proceeds, if sold, would go toward his debts.

Hamer-Jackson acknowledged the Bank of Nova Scotia debt when reached by iNFOnews.ca and said he has recently left messages with contacts at the bank to discuss the matter. He hasn’t responded in court.

He plans to run for mayor again in the October 2026 election.