Incumbent mayor Colin Basran's reaction: "And, he's going to do all that and spend less money."

Dyas proposed relocating City Hall and, with it, construct a new firehall to replace the Water Street hall, along with a social housing project On the current city hall lands, he proposed a new conference centre, performing arts centre and "other amenities where we can celebrate the benefits of this gift land together."

He didn't say where the new City Hall would be constructed.

"Also, I have a community partner who has come forward, and are willing to fund a ranch for the homeless where they could receive shelter, healing and hope," he said.

Dyas says the partner is the Loveth Family Trust. A specific location has not been singled out.

He also suggested the city investigate the cost of a municipal police force. While he has no issue with the RCMP, Dyas believes municipal officers would be lifelong community members and thus more invested.

Basran said he would be open to exploring the idea of a municipal force, but it's not a top priority.

He said the city has invested several million dollars to renovate City Hall, allowing more employees to work there, and extending the lifespan of the building.

"I don't think it would be fiscally responsible for us to just build a new City Hall somewhere.

But, he said he would "instruct staff to look into ways to accelerate the building of a new, iconic performing arts centre downtown, but on the same site."

Basran took exception to what he called a "say what you want to hear to get elected" style of politics.

"Making unrealistic promises and saying anything to garner votes, leaving it all to figure out later with no clear vision is not a way to run our city. This Trump-style of politicking threatens to undo all the good work we have done together," said Basran.

"It's going to require vision and experienced leadership if we're going to make meaningful change now, and for our future generations."

While Basran and Dyas took centre stage, businessman Bobby Kennedy and retired bylaw officer Bob Schewe also made their best pitch to the overflow crowd at the Coast Capri Hotel.

Kennedy hit hard on his desire to find new ways to generate revenue rather that asking the taxpayer for more.

He said a city cannabis tax could take advantage of the marijuana boom, with funds helping homelessness and safety initiatives. He also suggested the city collaborate with other valley communities for a light rail system from Penticton to Vernon.

Schewe told those in attendance he has "hands-on experience," and a knowledge of what does, and doesn't work when it comes to issues plaguing the city's downtown.

He said shelters need to be removed from downtown and away from residential and commercial areas.

He said there are two groups inhabiting downtown, the true homeless, who need to be helped, and the criminal element, who need to be told they are "not welcome."