I would not support the development of data centres in Kelowna at this time, based on the concerns around water availability and resource constraints, along with feedback I have received from residents.

First, I would focus on making Kelowna a business-friendly city. That means looking for ways to make permitting and approvals more efficient, reducing unnecessary delays and providing businesses with greater certainty. Time is money, particularly for small businesses.

Second, I would support and retain the businesses we already have. Small and locally owned businesses are an important part of our economy. Council needs to listen to them and understand the barriers they face — whether that is the cost of doing business, finding workers, transportation, housing or navigating City processes.

Third, we need to capitalize on the economic assets we already have — UBC Okanagan, Okanagan College, Kelowna International Airport, our technology and innovation sectors, tourism, agriculture, manufacturing and healthcare. Partnerships between education, industry and government can help develop the skilled workforce businesses need and create opportunities for young people to build careers here.

As a city councillor, I would support tourism by helping create the conditions for a strong, sustainable and well-managed visitor economy.

First, I would support the businesses and organizations that make tourism successful — including hotels, restaurants, wineries, breweries, attractions, event organizers, retailers, transportation providers and local tour operators. These businesses create employment and contribute significantly to the vitality of our downtown, neighbourhoods and surrounding areas.

Second, I would work to ensure that Kelowna remains a welcoming and accessible destination. That includes supporting reliable transportation, well-maintained roads, sidewalks, parks, beaches, trails and public spaces. Visitors should be able to move around the city safely and easily, while residents should also benefit from these investments.

Third, I would support tourism that reflects Kelowna’s unique strengths. Our lake, beaches, parks, agricultural lands, wineries, orchards, outdoor recreation, arts, culture and events all contribute to a distinctive visitor experience. We should continue working with Tourism Kelowna, local businesses, regional partners, Indigenous communities and other levels of government to promote these assets responsibly.

The Kelowna International Airport is also a major tourism and economic asset. Strong air connections help bring visitors to our region, support local businesses and make it easier for residents to travel. As a councillor, I would support responsible airport growth and the infrastructure needed to connect the Airport with the rest of the community.

Tourism must also be managed thoughtfully. We need to balance the benefits of visitors with the needs of residents. That means addressing traffic, parking, short-term rentals, environmental pressures, public safety and the impact of peak-season demand on local services. Tourism should enhance our community, not diminish the quality of life of the people who live here.

I would also support extending the tourism season. Kelowna has much to offer beyond the summer months, including wine and culinary experiences, arts and culture, sports, conferences, wellness, outdoor recreation and winter activities. A stronger year-round tourism economy can provide more stable employment and help businesses operate successfully throughout the year.

My background in 30 years of business-to-business sales, including 15 years as a Regional Sales Manager in the hotel industry, gives me a practical understanding of the tourism and hospitality sectors. I understand the importance of customer service, collaboration, marketing, workforce development and creating a positive experience for visitors.

For me, the goal is not simply to attract more visitors. It is to build a sustainable, year-round tourism economy that supports local businesses, creates good jobs, protects the environment and ensures residents continue to benefit from the community we are sharing with our guests.

I would not support the development of data centres in Kelowna at this time, based on the concerns around water availability and resource constraints, along with feedback I have received from residents.

As a city councillor, I would support tourism by helping create the conditions for a strong, sustainable and well-managed visitor economy.

First, I would support the businesses and organizations that make tourism successful — including hotels, restaurants, wineries, breweries, attractions, event organizers, retailers, transportation providers and local tour operators. These businesses create employment and contribute significantly to the vitality of our downtown, neighbourhoods and surrounding areas.

Second, I would work to ensure that Kelowna remains a welcoming and accessible destination. That includes supporting reliable transportation, well-maintained roads, sidewalks, parks, beaches, trails and public spaces. Visitors should be able to move around the city safely and easily, while residents should also benefit from these investments.

Third, I would support tourism that reflects Kelowna’s unique strengths. Our lake, beaches, parks, agricultural lands, wineries, orchards, outdoor recreation, arts, culture and events all contribute to a distinctive visitor experience. We should continue working with Tourism Kelowna, local businesses, regional partners, Indigenous communities and other levels of government to promote these assets responsibly.

The Kelowna International Airport is also a major tourism and economic asset. Strong air connections help bring visitors to our region, support local businesses and make it easier for residents to travel. As a councillor, I would support responsible airport growth and the infrastructure needed to connect the Airport with the rest of the community.

Tourism must also be managed thoughtfully. We need to balance the benefits of visitors with the needs of residents. That means addressing traffic, parking, short-term rentals, environmental pressures, public safety and the impact of peak-season demand on local services. Tourism should enhance our community, not diminish the quality of life of the people who live here.

I would also support extending the tourism season. Kelowna has much to offer beyond the summer months, including wine and culinary experiences, arts and culture, sports, conferences, wellness, outdoor recreation and winter activities. A stronger year-round tourism economy can provide more stable employment and help businesses operate successfully throughout the year.

My background in 30 years of business-to-business sales, including 15 years as a Regional Sales Manager in the hotel industry, gives me a practical understanding of the tourism and hospitality sectors. I understand the importance of customer service, collaboration, marketing, workforce development and creating a positive experience for visitors.

For me, the goal is not simply to attract more visitors. It is to build a sustainable, year-round tourism economy that supports local businesses, creates good jobs, protects the environment and ensures residents continue to benefit from the community we are sharing with our guests.

I would not support the development of data centres in Kelowna at this time, based on the concerns around water availability and resource constraints, along with feedback I have received from residents.