Peachland mayoralty candidate lashes out at current leadership

While not citing Mayor Cindy Fortin by name, Peachland councillor Patrick Van Minsel took veiled shots at her leadership abilities while announcing that he is running for mayor today.

Van Minsel has served one four-year term on council.

“These years have convinced me of the need for consensus-minded leadership,” he said in his announcement today, June 28. “Many have highlighted their desire for a professional, team-orientated approach, with increased transparency and opportunity for community input.”

The existing council has often been split on issues and Fortin has been in conflict with some councillors, especially Pete Coolio who she censured last summer.

READ MORE: Censured Peachland councillor not able to get his message out at council meeting

“Taxation, housing (including the range of development), infrastructure, the protection of our watershed, fiscal responsibility, and the transparent stewardship of taxpayers’ money, are just a few (issues) that come to mind.” Van Minsel said in a transcript of the speech he made earlier today. “It will require leadership and hard work to meet and overcome these and other challenging issues.

“There will always be challenges, but through respectful dialogue, honest communication, and holding the best interest of our community at heart – we can and will – move forward together.”

Fortin has not said if she’s running for re-election.

Municipal voting day in B.C. is Oct. 15.

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