LOCAL
Kamloops Councillor Mike O’Reilly Launches Mayoral Campaign for 2026
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.
COMMUNITY
Campbell River RCMP Arrest Two People and Seize $77K in Cash During Search
Campbell River RCMP seized $77,000 in cash, marijuana, and suspected cocaine after executing a search warrant on South Alder Street. Two people were arrested.
Local Search Warrant Yields Cash and Suspected Illicit Substances
A 62-year-old man and a 58-year-old woman were arrested in Campbell River after law enforcement officers executed a search warrant in the 500 block of South Alder Street on July 9, 2026. Following their arrest, both individuals were released and are scheduled to make their first court appearance on October 5, 2026.
During the operation, officers discovered and confiscated more than $77,000 in cash, along with 4.5 kilograms of marijuana, over 225 grams of suspected cocaine, and 10 grams of suspected crack cocaine.
Three-Month Police Operation Involves Multiple Units
The July search was the culmination of a three-month probe led by the Campbell River RCMP Street Crime unit. General duty officers, Major Crime personnel, and Police dog services assisted with the operation.
“This is another excellent example of how our investigators are working to remove illicit drugs from the street and hold traffickers accountable,” said RCMP spokesperson Cst. Maury Tyre.
Authorities encourage anyone holding details about active criminal enterprises or illegal drug trafficking to contact the Campbell River RCMP at 250-286-6221.
COMMUNITY
Why Rathrevor and Tofino Beaches Stand Out Among Canada’s Best Shorelines
Four Vancouver Island beaches, including Rathrevor and Chesterman, earned top 10 spots in a national ranking based on visitor ratings and review analysis.
Vancouver Island Shorelines Lead National Ranking
Vancouver Island holds four spots in the top 10 list of Canada’s best beaches, according to recent research released by Spin Casino. Parksville’s Rathrevor Beach secured third place overall for the second consecutive year, while Tofino’s Chesterman Beach earned the top national ranking for 2026.
Long Beach and Schooner Cove, both located in Tofino, placed fourth and tenth respectively. The top 10 list was predominantly featured by destinations in British Columbia and Ontario, with Prince Edward Island’s Cavendish Beach ranking fifth as the sole entry outside those two provinces. Ontario’s Sandbanks Provincial Park took second place.
High Visitor Marks for Tranquility and Natural Scenery
Rathrevor Beach Provincial Park gained high praise from travelers, with 94 per cent of reviewers giving it four or five stars. The park, known for a sandy shoreline that extends nearly 1.5 kilometres into the Strait of Georgia during low tide, recorded the highest number of mentions regarding peacefulness among all evaluated sites. Approximately 32 per cent of its reviews highlighted its unspoilt natural environment, where visitors can watch seals off the coast or see bald eagles overhead as the shoreline recedes by nearly a kilometre.
Top-ranked Chesterman Beach earned first place after receiving the highest volume of four- and five-star TripAdvisor ratings. It recorded romantic mentions most frequently, with 37 per cent of reviewers describing its Pacific Ocean setting and sands as beautiful.
Study Methodology and Coastal Appeal
The rankings were compiled by Spin Casino using an index score out of 500 derived from TripAdvisor data. The study evaluated 50 popular beaches across seven coastal provinces, excluding Yukon. Researchers measured ratings over four stars along with specific keyword mentions of clean, beautiful, peaceful, and romantic.
A spokesperson for Spin Casino noted that millions of people visit Canadian beaches annually, particularly in the summer when average temperatures ranging between 20 C and 25 C create favorable conditions with warm waters and light breezes.
LOCAL
Body Discovered Friday Morning in Nanaimo’s North End
Nanaimo RCMP investigated after a body was discovered Friday morning near the Costco on Applecross Road. Police believe the cause of death was a medical issue.
Investigation Underway Near Applecross Road
On the morning of Friday, July 31, 2026, a body was discovered in the Applecross Road area of Nanaimo’s north end, near a local Costco.
Nanaimo RCMP responded to the scene and blocked off roads in the immediate vicinity at approximately 6:00 a.m. to conduct an investigation.
Foul Play Not Suspected
According to R/Const. Gary O’Brien, police believe the cause of death was likely a medical issue, and foul play is not suspected at this time.
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