The Penticton & Wine Country Chamber of Commerce is hosting an All Candidates Town Hall Forum on Thursday, May 27, for the upcoming local government by-election.

So far, six people have officially declared their candidacy; Steve Brown, Karen Brownlee, Isaac Gilbert, Kate Hansen, James Miller and Katie O’Kell have sent in their nomination papers so far.

The city of Penticton is holding a by-election to fill one vacancy for the position of councillor after long-time local politician and former mayor Jake Kimberely resigned after having a stroke.

The total number of candidates won’t be known until election nominations close Friday, May 14. The Chief Election Officer will make a declaration of candidates after 4 p.m. on Friday.

The Chamber candidates forum will start at 6 p.m. via Zoom and Facebook Live.

The evening will start with all the candidates providing opening remarks.

If you would like to submit a business-related question for the candidates, email admin@penticton.org. The submission deadline is Tuesday, May 25 at 4 p.m. Only pre-registered guests will be able to submit questions.

Advance voting will take place June 9, 12 and 16. General voting day is Saturday, June 19, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Penticton Trade & Convention Centre or the Seniors’ Drop-In Centre.

Along with voting a new city councillor in, there will also be a question on the ballot regarding the Skaha Marina’s operations.

The public will be able to vote to either support the city in entering into a long-term agreement, which would be up to 25 years following a competitive bidding process, or to stay with shorter-term agreements.

READ MORE: Skaha Marina on by-election ballot

Penticton Western News