A dairy farmer by trade, Tom Boeve has a keen interest in maintaining the long-term viability of North Okanagan agriculture.
And with what he terms just 10 per cent of the township’s population employed in agriculture, Boeve wants to bring the farmer perspective to Spallumcheen council.
Boeve is one of five candidates challenging three incumbents for the six available seats.
“All of us who live here have chosen not to live in the city, and as such the maintenance of a rural landscape needs the input of those who make their living off the land,” said Boeve, who added that water issues and development also pique his interest.
“I believe I’m a listener, work well with others, and am able to find solutions and provide vision.”
Carolyn Farris is running for what would be a fourth term on council. She has served two full terms, gave up her seat, won a byelection then lost her seat in the last election.
“I looked at some of the issues that are really important to me, which is preserving farmland,” said Farris of her decision to throw her hat back into the political ring.
Farris said she was encouraged by a lot of people to run again.
“I think I bring some experience and bring a passion for the municipality and preserving its way of life while still trying to balance that with the need for development and growth for the future,” said Farris, a teacher.
Born in Armstrong just over 30 years ago and raised in Spallumcheen, Rachael Ganson wants to give a little of her generation’s perspective on issues as she seeks a first term on council.
“That’s probably the biggest factor for me,” said Ganson, who operates a construction company with her husband.
“I’m basically a Spallumcheen girl. I bring a fresh perspective, mainly because of my age and background, living in Spall and seeing the change over the years.”
She and her husband own a small acreage and Ganson wants to ensure other couples have that opportunity in the township.
“My concerns are just that there’s land available for people my age that want to come to the community,” said Ganson. “I want to make sure we at least have a voice in that matter.”
Ed Hanoski, who has lived in the township since 1973, is running for a spot on council for the people.
“My ideas are many and may sound philosophical but if they elect me, I will be a servant for the men and women of Spallumcheen,” said Hanoski, who works in construction and as a commercial mortgage broker. “Council was set up to serve the people. Somehow it gets turned around and people come, hat in hand looking for a yes vote by a majority but are treated as if underserving.”
Calling himself honest and trustworthy, Hanoski is a man of his word.
“I do the best I can not only for people who work for me and with me but on council.”
Joe Van Tienhoven said his introduction to politics came when he tried, as a citizen, to call on council to make safety changes at the McLeod Road intersection.
After encouragement from friends, Van Tienhoven decided to seek a seat on council.
“I think I bring an unbiased opinion, maybe a different perspective and I care about this community,” said Van Tienhoven, a financial representative and field trainer who has spent 20 years with both the Armstrong Spallumcheen Fire Department and Armstrong Kinsmen Clubs. “I want it to be something my kids can stay here and not have to move away to make a living.”
Van Tienhoven says other than continuing to try and improve the McLeod Road intersection, there are no other issues on his plate at this time. However, he would like to change what people think about council.
“As things come up, I’d take a look at it, but I don’t have any land to develop, no set agendas,” said Van Tienhoven.
“I think people want to just know council is listening to them, that council should be there for them. I think a lot of people’s perception is council does what they want.”
Spallumcheen residents will select a mayor and six councillors during Nov. 19’s municipal election.
