Kamloops invites candidates, voters to learn about council roles and responsibilities

Jul 9, 2026 | 3:24 PM

KAMLOOPS — The City of Kamloops is getting ready to host an information session for city council candidates and voters to learn about the roles and responsibilities of council ahead of the 2026 municipal election.

The session will be held on Aug. 6 between 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. at the Kia Lounge inside Sandman Centre and facilitated by Christina Benty, former mayor of the Town of Golden.

City officials said the session will educate attendees about the roles and responsibilities of local government and elected officials, leadership practices, long-term sustainability, collaboration and how citizens can be active contributors to local politics.

“We hope prospective candidates love their city by learning the roles and responsibilities of city council before making the decision to put their name forward,” said Kristen Rodrigue, the city’s communications and strategic partnerships director, in a news release.

“Council plays an integral part in shaping the lives of a municipality’s residents and the position comes with a lot of responsibility and commitment. We want to provide those considering running in the fall’s municipal election with an opportunity to learn more about what exactly the role entails.”

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Benty has served in local government for 12 years and has over 25 years of experience on numerous policy governance boards spanning health care, government, information technology and community planning.

“Your mayor and city councillors are your neighbours, your friends and your fellow citizens. We want to elect people who care,” said Benty.

“However, caring in and of itself is not enough. Governance takes both understanding and practiced skills. The most effective elected officials are the ones who understand the system, not the ones who blame the system.”

The event will be limited to 50 attendees, with required pre-registration opening at 10:00 a.m. on July 15. A recording will be posted to the city’s YouTube channel after the event.

by Elora McCormack

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Kamloops invites candidates, voters to learn about council roles and responsibilities

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