Weeks following a devastating wildfire that destroyed around 110 structures in the hills west of Summerland, B.C., two contenders find themselves in the ruins of their own properties seeking votes from displaced neighbors.
Jason Earl and John Rousseau are vying for the director position in Electoral Area F of the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS), encompassing semi-rural neighborhoods bordering Summerland.
Both Earl and Rousseau reside in Faulder, the community that suffered the most damage when the Bald Range fire swept through in August. Earl lost his family residence, while Rousseau’s woodworking business was reduced to ashes.
“It’s incredibly shocking to witness the devastation upon return,” Rousseau expressed. “Driving through our neighborhood now feels akin to the aftermath of an explosive event.”
Embarking on a political campaign shortly after losing their properties to the fire may seem extraordinary, but both men believe the disaster has eliminated any excuses for remaining passive as voters select their next director.
Rousseau, a Faulder native, revealed to CBC News that he has long harbored a desire to serve his community, but had initially felt too preoccupied with his business to step forward. However, the fire changed his perspective. “And then three days later, every tool that I have collected my whole life burned to the ground,” he explained. “I now have the time to fulfill this role effectively.”
For Earl, who relocated to the region almost ten years ago, the fire also accelerated his decision to run. With 16 years of experience in the insurance sector, Earl believes his background can assist his neighbors in the recovery process. “Many say it’s a challenging time to run due to overwhelming responsibilities, but there’s never an ideal moment for anything. Excuses can always be found,” Earl remarked.
The catastrophic events of August have made this election season unprecedented in the regional district’s history. The Bald Range fire inflicted damage on approximately 150 structures, with the majority of losses concentrated in the rural communities of Faulder and Meadow Valley in Area F.
As the election approaches, numerous residents are displaced, residing in temporary accommodations in nearby areas. This situation has made traditional door-to-door campaigning nearly impractical, prompting candidates to adjust their strategies.
“Utilizing the phone is paramount for connection,” Earl emphasized. “Driving around for conversations isn’t very productive due to the limited number of people available to engage with.”
Despite the turmoil, both candidates stress that the tragedy has redirected attention to the significance of local governance. Issues such as emergency readiness, fire prevention, and sustainable growth have swiftly become urgent focal points.
Access to dependable water systems is a pressing concern for many in Area F, extending to the Sage Mesa and Westbench neighborhoods, which were less impacted by the fire.
“The primary focus is advocating and informing residents about the options and associated costs, as we pay high taxes with minimal services,” Earl pointed out.
Rousseau also advocates for enhancing water infrastructure, highlighting the importance of expanding the local tax base. “This is essential for funding these initiatives,” he emphasized. “We have the right to develop our land sustainably to create employment opportunities, enhance the tax base, and upgrade our infrastructure.”
Amid the challenges of campaigning amidst the fire recovery, both candidates anticipate that the gravity of the situation will motivate residents to participate in the election.
“When a crisis of this magnitude occurs, it brings politics and civic engagement to the forefront, fostering increased participation,” Earl stated.
“I hope that in the wake of this tragedy, people will be driven to exercise their voting rights,” Rousseau added. “Municipal elections wield significant influence on people’s quality of life beyond what they realize.”