As summer rolls into the valley and the mosquitoes start measuring us for dinner jackets, I thought it was time to push back from the council table, put down the metaphorical pen and take a short seasonal pause from these Ramblings and Musings.
Before anyone panics, yes, I will be back in the fall. Hopefully tanned a little lighter, but still opinionated and full of new ideas to stir the pot.
Over the past months, we’ve wandered through quite a few topics together, haven’t we? From the ongoing saga of 52 Ridge (the address that might just earn its own Netflix docuseries one day) to the riveting world of municipal taxation, because nothing says “thriller” like an assessment notice.
We’ve talked tourism, town visioning, OCP updates, law enforcement, and why asking someone to follow the law in Clearwater is apparently controversial. I even dared to suggest that people running a business in town should, I don’t know, get a licence first. Bold, I know.
I’ve also spoken openly and unapologetically about standing with our BIPOC and LGBTQ2S+ neighbours; not just during Pride month, but always. Because inclusion, equity, and belonging shouldn’t be up for debate. Small towns like ours are made stronger when everyone feels seen, valued, and safe. That stand has sparked conversation, a little heat, and thankfully, a lot of support.
We’ve mused about leadership, public engagement, community input, and why sometimes it feels like being on council is less about governance and more about refereeing a family reunion at a local RV/Campground where everyone brought their own rules, tinfoil hats, and a megaphone.
Somewhere along the way, we took a stand or two. Some folks applauded. Others...replied in all caps. Gotta love Democracy!
But here’s the thing: I wouldn’t trade this job for anything. Okay, maybe for a job that actually pays a living wage, but otherwise? I’m all in.
So, as I step away for a bit this summer to let some new ideas grow, I want to thank you for reading, for responding, and for letting me bring some of the behind-the-scenes work of local government into the daylight. Sometimes with seriousness, sometimes with sarcasm, but always with the hope of building something better together.
I'll be back in the fall with more columns, more commentary, and probably another spirited debate about bylaws, bears, or boundary lines. And with any luck, I’ll return rested, recharged, and a few pounds lighter unless someone keeps leaving ice cream throughout the Great Bear Rainforest. That’s a hint people!!!
In the meantime, enjoy the sunshine, take a moment to FireSmart your property (seriously, it’s one of the most important things you can do this season), and keep an eye on what’s happening in your community. Because you never know what might pop up next.
Ken
