Osoyoos Municipal Election all-candidates Q&A – Part 2

Sue McKortoff – Mayor candidate (incumbent)

Sue McKortoff – Mayor candidate (incumbent)

Q3. Osoyoos has been part of the Community Climate Action Plan and CARIP- the  Revenue Incentive Program for the past 15 years. Besides upgrades to energy efficient windows, doors and lighting in town buildings, photovoltaic panels are used for sewage lagoon aeration. Council has recommended using solar panels when updating town projects, and in new and updated home construction, as noted in the OCP.

Q4. September 30, Orange Shirt day, is a national day to help educate people on Canada’s colonial history and encourage a dialogue between Indigenous and non-Indigenous neighbours. Osoyoos, Oliver and OIB councils work collaboratively on hospital issues, water, sewage, policing and the aquatic feasibility study. We enjoy a positive, respectful relationship as we continue to learn and understand.

Dustin Sikora – Mayor candidate

Dustin Sikora – Mayor candidate

Q3. I believe a study should be done to pinpoint the seasonal viability and ‘return on investment’ for solar panels in our region. If the opinion is that solar panels are more cost effective than traditional hydro generated electricity, then the town should make every effort to accommodate and encourage the expansion of solar panels through tax credits and bylaws.

 Q4. I would schedule routine meetings with the OIB and create a liaison portfolio for one of our councillors. Discussing shared interests and working together on projects that achieve prosperity will result in mutual understanding and long lasting relationships.

Myers Bennett – Councillor candidate (incumbent)

Myers Bennett – Councillor candidate (incumbent)

Q3. I would encourage the residents in Osoyoos to use solar power for their own individual use. Studies show that we do not have the space in the “pocket desert” to be able to house a viable solar power station for the Town of Osoyoos as they take up large parcels of land and our pocket desert land is abundant with fruit and vegetables.

 Q4. In regards to further reconciliation with our Indigenous neighbours I will continue to do the same as I do now by supporting their events and working together with them to complete the Trails of the Okanagans, the new proposed joint-funded aquatic centre, and sharing community services. I believe the majority of the Indigenous population do not want to be treated any different from non-Indigenous except to feel respected. I will continue to wear my orange shirt on Friday’s Indigenous day.

Johnny Cheong – Councillor candidate

Johnny Cheong – Councillor candidate

Q3. I believe the most effective way to instigate change in the community is to lead by example. I would like to see solar panels installed on every town owned building. I would like to see the new town hall to have a net-positive energy design with solar energy being a large contributor. With energy rates increasing in price, these initiatives are both fiscally and environmentally responsible.

 Q4. We need to rebuild our relationship with the Osoyoos Indian Band. We met with Chief Clarence Louie earlier in the pre-campaign period to discuss past, current and future collaborations between the OIB and the Town of Osoyoos and were astonished by the lack of town council presence. By strengthening our relationship with the OIB as partners, we can step into the future together with mutual respect.

Wesley Greve – Councillor candidate

Wesley Greve – Councillor candidate

Q3. Devastating wildfires will continue unless we lower climate-changing emissions. Solar power for heating town facilities, running street lights, and water/sewage treatment paired with sustainable building standards and rebate programs would be good first steps to improve our carbon footprint and create energy cost savings for taxpayers.

 Q4. We should develop a program of events to help navigate the uncomfortable parts of our history which were absent from the curriculum when many of us went to school. My initial idea is a week-long short film festival featuring stories by First Nations filmmakers. The broader festival program could feature First Nations art and cuisine. Obviously collaborating with the OIB would be key to success.

Jim King – Councillor candidate (incumbent)

Jim King – Councillor candidate (incumbent)

Q3. The town already uses many solar panels up at the lagoons, it also has solar panels for backup at the landfill. I support the use of solar power/panels. Review the town’s bylaws around the development of homes/buildings to support the weight of the panels. Produce materials and inform homeowners with pros and cons of solar panels. The lifespan of solar panels is approximately 25 years.

 Q4. Set up a meeting with the OIB council and town council. It is very important to have the meeting on OIB land. Out of respect, try to set up the meeting in person so that town council can listen and understand the issues from their point of view in collaboration. Keep the public informed on the results. This should lead to a better understanding moving forward. 

Sy Murseli – Councillor candidate

Sy Murseli – Councillor candidate

Q3. Town should consider solar energy for all buildings – facilities for long term planning.  Homeowners and businesses should be encouraged, but not forced.

Q4. As a positive initial step in the process of establishing reconciliation in the Osoyoos region, I suggest that council adopt the policy of starting each meeting with the recognition that this is being done on the unceded ancestral homeland of the Osoyoos Indian Band with Okanagan Nation.  I should note that the school board has required for all events in the region.  As well, Town of Oliver gave us trailblazing example of the recognition.  I commend them.

Zach Poturica – Councillor candidate

Zach Poturica – Councillor candidate

Q3. Osoyoos has a tremendous opportunity to promote solar power and that begins with implementing solar on current and future infrastructure and lighting where practical and encourage the same for future construction projects for residents and businesses.   

 Q4. We are fortunate to have the Osoyoos Indian Band as our friends. There is an opportunity to mend our relationship with Chief and Council and move forward together.  We have an opportunity to further promote and reflect on the significant history and culture the Syilx people have in this region.