Kamloops Mayor Race: 6 Candidates Emerge as List Finalized

KAMLOOPS – The mayor's race is officially set. As of April 10, 2025, six candidates have filed nomination papers for the Kamloops mayoral election on October 19, making this one of the most crowded contests in recent memory. The incumbent, Ken Christian, announced last month he will not seek re-election, leaving the field wide open.

Six Hopefuls Enter the Fray

The confirmed candidates include three with previous council experience, two political newcomers with business backgrounds, and a long-time community activist. While the full list was only finalized late Tuesday, several candidates had already been campaigning for weeks.

• Nancy Bepple (former city councillor): Known for her focus on affordable housing and transit. She returns to politics after a four-year hiatus.
• Kelly Hall (local restaurant owner): Campaigning on a platform of cutting red tape for small businesses and reviving downtown nightlife.
• John O'Flynn (retired RCMP officer): Promises tougher enforcement on encampments and a crackdown on property crime.
• Sadie Campbell (non-profit director): Pushing for climate action and a community land trust for housing.
• Mike O'Reilly (real estate developer): Advocates for streamlined development approvals and tax freezes.
• Dave Ruttle (transportation engineer): A newcomer focusing on road safety and improved cycling infrastructure.

What's at Stake

This election comes at a pivotal time for Kamloops. The city is grappling with a housing affordability crisis, downtown recovery post-pandemic, and rising crime rates. The new mayor will also have to manage major infrastructure projects, including the North Shore revitalization and the replacement of the Red Bridge.

New Momentum: First Debate Announced

In a fresh development not seen in previous elections, all six candidates have confirmed their attendance at the first official debate hosted by the Kamloops Chamber of Commerce on April 15 at the Coast Kamloops Hotel. The event is expected to cover taxation, downtown safety, and housing strategies. Organizers say it will be streamed live and questions will be taken from the audience.

“This is the most competitive field we've seen in a decade,” said local political analyst Mark Berube. “With no incumbent, each candidate has a real shot, but turnout will be key. Early polls suggest Nancy Bepple has a slight edge, but 40% of voters are still undecided.”

Infrastructure and Budget Challenges

Whoever wins will inherit a city budget under pressure. The 2025-2029 financial plan proposes a 4.2% property tax increase, and there is growing dissent among residents. Several candidates have pledged to freeze or reduce taxes, though economists warn that may force cuts to services.

Looking Ahead

Campaign signs are already sprouting across the city, and social media warfare has begun. The next few weeks will likely see fierce debates on housing, homelessness, and economic development. Voters will have multiple opportunities to hear from candidates, with at least three more forums planned by local community groups.

As things stand, the race is wide open. Kamloops residents can expect a busy summer of door-knocking and policy pitches before heading to the polls this fall.

This article was updated on April 10, 2025, with the final list of candidates.