Candidates for the 2026 Municipal Election

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Candidate Name: 
Wes Routley

Contact Information:
Email

Candidate Statement:
I grew up in Golden, and I've always loved volunteering: from fundraising for winter bird feed to helping start the Youth Centre and Interact Club. After university, I came home and worked in the public and private sectors. Today, I run the admin side of Stolen Bell Distillery.

I started going to Council meetings well before first getting elected in 2022, for no reason other than curiosity. Local government has the most intimate impact on people's lives, with most decisions going unnoticed until things break down. Water, sewer, roads, cemeteries, and all the fun stuff on top.

Four years later, I've kept putting my hand up for work beyond the council table: learning about regional governance, an elected seat on the AKBLG board, and a provincial working group updating the Local Government Act.

This term's work has been foundational: a rewrite of our Official Community Plan, just adopted, a new approach to development financing, honest long-term budgeting, and a strategic plan that went beyond the election cycle. There's still so much to be done.

So I'm running for mayor. It isn't a bigger vote; it's a service job: ensuring the community is heard at regional and other tables, keeping Council's meetings on course, and setting the example. We can do better to ensure everyone has a chance to be heard, is encouraged to share concerns, and can see the impact their contribution makes. In between the ongoing council work, I’d love the chance to chat. Feel free to reach out.

Candidate Information:
Nomination Package

Candidate Statement:
My name is Stuart Angus, I have called Golden home for the past 19 years. My family moved here in 2007, and over the years our roots in this community have grown strong. Today, three generations of my family live in Golden, giving me a deep appreciation for the people, businesses, and opportunities that make this town a special place to live.

As the owner/operator of The Golden Cinema, I have had the privilege of meeting and working with residents, visitors, local organizations, and businesses from all parts of our community. Running a local business has given me valuable experience in problem-solving, customer service, budgeting, and understanding the challenges and opportunities that come with living and working in a small town.

Golden has given my family a wonderful place to live, work, and build lasting connections. I am seeking a position on Town Council to give back to the community that has given us so much. I care deeply about Golden’s future and want to contribute in a thoughtful, practical, and collaborative way.

I believe strong communities are built through listening, collaboration and respectful discussion. I want to work together to find solutions that benefit residents, businesses, families, and future generations. I look forward to the opportunity to serve the people of Golden and help ensure our community grows steadily, in an affordable manner.

Candidate Information:
Nomination Package

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Candidate Name:
Calvin Beauchesne

Contact Information:
Email      Website

Candidate Statement:
I have lived in Golden for a large part of the last 8 years. Like many others what attracts me to the community is its outdoor recreation opportunities, arts and cultural scene and strong sense of community. I grew up in Ontario where I went to university; I hold a MA in Sustainability Studies and BA in Environmental Studies. I have been involved with Wildsight Golden serving on the Board of Directors from 2022-2024; as well as working as the Invasive Plant Program Coordinator, Air Quality Coordinator and Electric Vehicle Car Share Coordinator. In 2021 I moved the Town of Golden to pass a motion to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2050. In 2023, I successfully applied for a grant from Columbia Basin Trust to finish installing solar panels on Golden Secondary School. I was a volunteer with Kicking Horse Culture during this year’s Emberfest events, and I have a podcast on Golden Co-Op Radio. This past winter I was a volunteer nordic ski coach at Dawn Mountain Nordic Center. I have also worked as a ski instructor, volunteer ski patrol and sea kayak guide. I am running for Council because I want to use my knowledge and expertise to improve the community for all residents. 

Candidate Information:
Nomination Package

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Candidate Name:
James Bjarnason

Contact information:
Email
Phone: 250-344-1316

Candidate Statement: 
I think it's time for a change on council. The sewage issue that was missed was a concern and I am worried about what else might have been missed. Let's start fresh with a new council and work towards a better Golden!!

Candidate Information:
Nomination Package

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Candidate Name:
Rick Pullen

Contact Information:
Email
Phone: 250-290-0084

Candidate Statement:
I wish to be of service to my community.

History:
I retired from Calgary to Golden in 2017. Previously, I worked in many industries as an Information Technology person, carpenter, teacher, project manager, driver in transportation, and hospitality management.

Experience in Service:
I have served in many volunteer positions including one currently as a Wheels of Hope driver for cancer patients needing transportation. I volunteered as a ski patroller, volunteered as a leader on 2 condominium boards. I volunteer at the Golden Seniors Centre. I am a volunteer Alternate Director, Area A, Columbia Shuswap Regional District, and am a volunteer member of Local Advisory Committee, Area A, Columbia Shuswap Regional District.

Goals as Councillor:
My goal in serving Golden is to help deliver to the local community, the needs and wishes of the community. I am always willing to listen and to discuss viewpoints in a respectful manner with careful thought and decision making. I have the time and energy to be a significant contributor to the benefit of Town of Golden and its residents.

Candidate Information:
Nomination Package

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Candidate Name:
David Ratzlaff

Contact Information:
Email
Phone: 250-272-1500