Given: It's too early

Photo: Wayne Moore - Castanet File Photo

Gail Given is in no hurry to declare her intentions to run for mayor of Kelowna.

It is widely believed the first time councillor will eventually decide to run, but said Tuesday the time was not right.

"I feel it's too early. I don't know if residents want a six and a half month election campaign so I'm not as anxious to declare so early," Given said, after council-mate Colin Basran became the first candidate to throw his hat into the ring.

"I don't recall this type of conversation happening until August or late July, typically."

Given said she is still weighing her options.

Basran's announcement came just weeks after Mayor Walter Gray said he would not seek re-election.

"I know Colin has been very interested and he's kind of made that clear right from the beginning.

It's a good opportunity for me to see if there is still community support when someone elses name is placed firmly on the ballot."

Given said Gray did have a conversation with both her and Basran.

She said that he told them to be patient and work through the process of assessing community support.

He also reminded them they still have to focus on the job of running the city regardless of what their decision is.

Former two-term mayor, Sharon Shepherd is also assessing her options as is former councillor, Carol Gran.