LOCAL

Kamloops Councillor Mike O’Reilly Launches Mayoral Campaign for 2026

Published

1 year ago

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KAMLOOPS, B.C. — City Councillor Mike O’Reilly has officially declared his candidacy for mayor in the 2026 municipal election, promising to bring stability and focus back to Kamloops’ leadership.

In his announcement, O’Reilly emphasized that “the chaos must end,” referencing divisions at city hall and the city’s ongoing challenges with homelessness, housing affordability, and public safety as key motivators behind his campaign.

Focus on Leadership and Stability

O’Reilly, who has served on council since 2018, said his experience in both business and municipal governance positions him to lead with a steady hand. He outlined a vision for a city government grounded in collaboration, efficiency, and community trust.

Among his stated priorities are:

  • Strengthening long-term infrastructure planning
  • Improving transparency and communication in decision-making
  • Supporting economic development and investment opportunities
  • Partnering with senior governments to secure funding for key projects

Competitive Race Ahead

O’Reilly’s early entry into the race sets the stage for what is expected to be a highly competitive mayoral contest. Kamloops continues to face complex challenges — from housing pressures to fiscal management — that have tested city leadership in recent years.

Supporters say O’Reilly’s campaign could resonate with voters looking for decisive, stable leadership. However, he may also face scrutiny over how his platform will balance fiscal responsibility with urgent community needs.

Next Steps Toward 2026

As the election approaches, residents will be watching closely to see how O’Reilly’s policies evolve and how his proposals compare with other candidates expected to enter the race. The coming months are likely to shape the tone and priorities of Kamloops’ political future.

 


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LOCAL

Community Safety Highlighted After Gunshots Hit Fort St. John Home

Fort St. John RCMP are investigating after gunshots struck a home on Saturday. Police confirm no injuries were reported in the residential incident.

Published

2 days ago

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October 25, 2026

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RCMP Respond to Shooting in Residential Area

An investigation is underway in Fort St. John, B.C., after a local home was struck by gunfire on Saturday.

RCMP officers were dispatched to the neighborhood following multiple public reports of gunshots. Upon arrival, police confirmed that a residence had been hit several times.

Police Warn of Danger to Neighbourhood

No injuries were reported as a result of the gunfire. However, law enforcement officials emphasized the severe potential risks associated with the incident.

“Cpl. Brett Urano says it was fortunate no one was injured, but the potential for a tragic outcome can’t be understated,” police stated. Officials added that discharging firearms in a residential area puts innocent individuals and families at serious risk.

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LOCAL

Suspect Arrested in North Kelowna Hit-and-Run After Multi-Unit RCMP Search

Kelowna and Lake Country RCMP arrested a hit-and-run suspect after a two-vehicle crash on Highway 97 near Ellison Lake on Oct. 24. No injuries reported.

Published

2 days ago

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October 25, 2026

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Hit-and-Run Incident Causes Traffic Delay on Highway 97

A driver attempting to flee on foot following a two-vehicle crash on Highway 97 near Ellison Lake was taken into custody by police on Saturday, Oct. 24. The collision in North Kelowna resulted in traffic slowing to a crawl while emergency responders managed the scene.

Extensive Police Response Leads to Arrest

Witnesses contacted authorities after observing the driver of a black sedan abandon the vehicle and run into a nearby green space. Multiple law enforcement teams were dispatched to track down the fleeing suspect, including the Kelowna RCMP Road Safety Unit, the Kelowna RCMP Gang Enforcement Team, frontline officers, Lake Country RCMP, Police Dog Services, and RCMP Air Services.

According to Kelowna RCMP media relations officer Cpl. Steven Lang, officers located and arrested the suspected driver close to the crash site shortly after the search began.

Police Investigation Ongoing

Authorities reported that no injuries occurred as a result of the collision. “Investigators believe alcohol and speed were factors in the collision,” Lang stated.

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HEALTH

Coquihalla Highway Reopens Near Merritt Following Morning Crash That Injured Four

The Coquihalla Highway north of Merritt has reopened following a Saturday morning vehicle crash that resulted in four people being taken to the hospital.

Published

6 days ago

on

October 21, 2026

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Traffic Resumes Following Serious Morning Incident

Four people were hospitalized, including three in critical condition, after a motor vehicle incident occurred north of Merritt on Saturday morning, October 17.

DriveBC reported that the Coquihalla Highway was reopened in both directions from Exit 290 to Exit 315 at approximately 4:00 p.m., following the earlier closure.

Emergency Responders Deploy Air Ambulances

BC Emergency Health Services dispatched multiple resources after receiving a call at approximately 8:35 a.m. The response included two air ambulances, three primary care paramedic ambulances, one advanced care paramedic ambulance, and a paramedic supervisor.

According to BCEHS, crews provided emergency medical care at the scene. Two of the three critically injured patients were flown to the hospital via air ambulance, while a fourth patient was taken to the hospital in stable condition.

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