The Penticton mayoral election has become a race, as councillor Julius Bloomfield throws his hat in as the second competitor.
Bloomfield, currently finishing his first term as councillor, previously ran for mayor in 2011, when he came in second with 2,978 votes behind Dan Ashton’s 3,124.
The announcement for his run took place at the Japanese Gardens at Okanagan Lake on Tuesday, where Bloomfield spoke to some of his key issues for the coming election.
Bloomfield is currently the only candidate running against incumbent mayor John Vassilaki.
“Coming out of the pandemic, Penticton is in sort of a pivotal moment in time with several pressures on the city. Those pressures include crime and community safety, pressure for development within the city, on the economy and the environment,” said Bloomfield.
“I think it’s important that these issues are dealt with in a calm, thoughtful, and moderate manner. I can bring those qualities to the table to help lead Penticton through these next four years.”
Bloomfield said he can make a positive impact as the city’s next mayor in how he handles situations and manages time.
“I collect data on every issue. I ponder it, consider it,” he said. “I make decisions based on the data and thoughtful consideration. That’s one way that I can help and steer the community through the next four years.”
A passion for the environment led Bloomfield to build a solar-powered strawbale home on his ranch in Naramata.
READ MORE: Penticton mayor announces re-election bid
The nomination period for the coming election closes on Sept. 9, at 4 p.m. Voting day will be held on Oct. 15, 2022.
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