Fernie city councillor Kyle Hamilton has announced his intention to run for mayor in the October municipal election, citing experience, infrastructure renewal, and affordability as key priorities.

In a statement shared publicly, Hamilton said he was disappointed to learn that Nic Milligan has chosen not to seek another term, while expressing appreciation for Milligan’s decades of service to the community, including the past four years as mayor.

Hamilton has served two terms on Fernie City Council, experience he says has provided the depth of understanding needed to work effectively with a future council. He pointed to the significant challenges Fernie has faced over the past eight years, including COVID-19, the closure of the Fernie Community Centre, housing availability and affordability pressures, limited daycare spaces, and rising cost-of-living impacts felt across British Columbia.

At the same time, Hamilton highlighted recent progress, noting that new daycare spaces continue to come online, affordable housing projects are advancing, a new fire hall is planned, and work is ongoing with the province to upgrade wastewater treatment infrastructure. He said these efforts reflect Fernie’s ability to respond constructively to difficult issues.

Infrastructure renewal and municipal finances are expected to be central themes of Hamilton’s campaign. He emphasized the need for a mayor who understands Fernie’s aging infrastructure and can advocate for improved funding models from senior governments to help ease pressure on local property taxpayers.

Hamilton said he looks forward to connecting with residents in the months ahead to discuss community priorities and concerns. He encouraged people to reach out for informal conversations, noting he is open to meeting over coffee or a beer to talk about Fernie’s future.

The municipal election is scheduled for October, with candidate nominations and official election details to be confirmed by the City of Fernie in the coming months.

Source: Facebook