Jeremy Levy

2026 Election Candidate

Environmental

Coldstream's Official Community Plan focuses on directing growth to designated “growth areas” while limiting development in “rural protection areas.”

a) Under what conditions do you think Council should make exceptions to this growth strategy?

b) Please give local examples of 'good' and 'not good' building development in Coldstream, and state why.

The community created the OPC, so the Council should usually follow the plan. If an area is under “rural protection,” it also has a high chance of being in the ALR, and its rules trump those of the municipal government. Regional partners also identify and approve growth and rural protection areas through the regional growth committee, so service providers know where to build future joint infrastructure.

Coldstream has experienced significant climate impacts for the last few years. How do you propose to address these crises, both in preparing ahead for disasters like drought, wildfires, heat domes and floods, as well as reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that lead to climate change?

I support our Fire Smart initiatives and our partnerships with the RDNO to protect our drinking water, such as the Aberdeen Plateau Wildfire and Watershed Initiative. Coldstream has been expanding its active transportation paths, giving more residents the opportunity to travel by bike and reducing GHG emissions by using fewer cars.

Do you support the use of public funds to contribute to acquiring natural lands for environmental conservation purposes? Under what conditions would the perceived need for more housing, businesses, roads and other infrastructure prompt you to trade away natural lands with high ecological value for urban expansion?

Yes. I support fiscally responsible investment in protecting natural lands with significant ecological and community value. Growth should first be directed to appropriate areas, with development of high-value natural lands considered only when there is a demonstrated need and after carefully weighing environmental impacts, community benefits, and long-term costs.

Drought, contamination, increasing demand are just some of the water issues. What actions would you prioritise to protect our creeks, lakes, aquifers, and groundwater for home and agricultural water sources, habitat for fish and wildlife, and human recreation?

I would prioritize protecting watersheds and groundwater, improving water conservation, reducing contamination risks, and investing in infrastructure that strengthens our water supply. We also need to work closely with agricultural producers, neighbouring communities and other levels of government to balance the needs of residents, agriculture, recreation and healthy fish and wildlife habitat.

Social

In smaller communities, we need to be creative in how we help one another; how do you see the role of local government in this?

Local government should help create the conditions for people, businesses, and community organizations to work together and find local solutions. In smaller communities, strong partnerships, creative thinking, and making the most of limited resources can often accomplish more than government working alone.

How do we tackle misinformation and growing distrust in local government as well as uncivil behaviour on social media and in person?

Trust starts with transparency, respectful communication, and making accurate information easy to access. Local government should listen to concerns, correct misinformation with facts, encourage constructive dialogue, and lead by example.

Cultural

Describe what arts and culture are in the Coldstream area from your perspective, and how do you think local government should support these features of our community?

Arts gatherings and exhibitions are held at the Mackie Lake House and the Community Hall. The Greater Vernon Cultural Center is also being built in Vernon's core, and Coldstream is a partner. Coldstream has also supported community arts and culture events in public park spaces, such as Lilly Fest at the skatepark. Coldstream should support and encourage arts and culture groups to do events in our public spaces, creating a more vibrant community.

Is the current structure of funding for arts & culture and recreation, which is currently through the RDNO, working for Coldstream? Why or why not?

Overall, the regional model provides Coldstream residents with access to arts, culture, and recreation opportunities that would be difficult and costly to provide independently. I support continuing regional partnerships while regularly reviewing funding agreements to ensure Coldstream residents receive fair value, equitable access, and a reasonable return for what our taxpayers contribute.

Economic

What is your understanding of how small local governments can support our economic development, including the success of our small local businesses?

Small local governments can support economic development by creating a business-friendly environment, keeping processes efficient, investing in infrastructure, and supporting partnerships that strengthen the local economy. We should listen to our small businesses, reduce unnecessary barriers, and help create the conditions for local businesses to start, grow, and succeed.

What is one action the municipality should take to strengthen our local food system and improve access to healthy, affordable food? Why that action?

I would prioritize protecting and supporting our agricultural land and local producers. Keeping agriculture viable through good land-use planning, access to water, and fewer unnecessary barriers helps keep food local, strengthens food security, and supports Coldstream’s agricultural economy. New farm-to-school programs are emerging; I would advocate for local schools to access affordable, fresh local produce for youth.

Health

As Mayor / Councilor, how would you work to attract and retain medical professionals in Coldstream?

Coldstream offers an exceptional quality of life for medical professionals, and we should leverage that advantage while advocating for improved healthcare access for our residents. We are in close proximity to medical facilities such as Vernon Jubilee Hospital and the Vernon Health Services building.

How will you ensure that our planning of our built environment, our programs and our policies support the diverse physical and mental health needs of our population?

I would support planning that creates a safe, accessible, and connected community for people of all ages and abilities. This means considering walkability, parks and recreation, accessibility, housing options, social connection, and access to services when making decisions about our built environment and municipal policies.