Kamloops, British Columbia’s outgoing mayor has been admitted to the hospital following a heart attack, as confirmed by Reid Hamer-Jackson. Hamer-Jackson revealed that he spent a significant portion of the past week in the hospital leading up to the municipal election in the city. Despite being briefly discharged to attend the election results on Saturday night, he had to return to the hospital.
Describing the situation, Hamer-Jackson mentioned that he will likely require heart-related medical procedures due to what appears to have been a heart attack incident that occurred the previous Tuesday. In the mayoral contest, he finished fourth, trailing over 3,500 votes behind the victor, two-term Kamloops councillor Mike O’Reilly.
Since assuming the mayoral position in 2022, Kamloops’ municipal politics have been characterized by ongoing conflicts, particularly between the mayor and fellow councillors. Hamer-Jackson initiated legal action against Coun. Katie Neustaeter for defamation, a case in which a judge recently ruled in favor of Neustaeter, ordering Hamer-Jackson to cover legal costs and damages.
Reflecting on the election outcome, Hamer-Jackson acknowledged the voters’ choice and expressed hope that the newly elected council members would bring positive change. He attributed his electoral defeat to the previous council and negative media portrayal, suggesting that stress from these factors may have contributed to his health issues.
Awaiting a surgery date, Hamer-Jackson indicated his intention to prioritize his health and family post-mayoral term departure. The incoming mayor, Mike O’Reilly, along with the new city council, is scheduled to be sworn in on Monday, November 2.