Ruth Hoyte first to declare candidacy for Coldstream mayor

Photo: Contributed

A Coldstream councillor has announced she will seek the mayor's seat in next month's election.

With Mayor Jim Garlick opting to run for a council seat instead, Ruth Hoyte is the first declared candidate for the mayor's office in the Oct. 15 vote.

Hoyte is a longtime Coldstream resident who is currently completing her first term as a councillor.

"I have the upmost respect for Mayor Garlick and my fellow councillors, and believe that with the support of Coldstream residents, I can give a fresh perspective to the position of mayor," Hoyte said in a press release Thursday.

"Coldstream council has moved forward with some great community projects, such as two childcare centres and a new community hall. Coldstream Station is nearly complete, and I can see potential of a farmers/artisan market operating on that site. Current initiatives include a citizen’s survey and looking for public input on the Head of the Lake master plan. I look forward to reviewing and listening to the input provided by our residents," said Hoyte.

If elected, she says a priority is the availability of housing options.

"We must be mindful of development to ensure it meets our needs and provides homes for families and those who wish to downsize or move to our community," she said.

"Council has addressed this on several fronts, including zoning for multi-family units as well as carriage homes which can provide additional housing However, council needs to do more to attract young families so the community can grow."

Calling Coldstream a "shining jewel," Hoyte says the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the "need for local food sources and the importance of providing support to farmers."

Hoyte has served as a director to the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee and the Regional Growth Advisory Committee at the Regional District of North Okanagan, and sits as an alternative director at the RDNO.

She says she looks forward to working with Vernon and regional partners on water protection, recreation and other issues.

Hoyte’s background is in the insurance sector. She has extensive experience as a volunteer with Vernon Winter Carnival, the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce, and Elks Lodge.