In October 2024 Councillor Debra Toporowski announced that she was stepping down from her role as North Cowichan Councillor to run in the fall provincial election. She is now our Cowichan Valley MLA.
The by-election to fill the vacant North Cowichan Council seat is this coming April 12th. Find more information on voting places, advance voting opportunities, and other information for voters here
We asked the five candidates vying for the Council seat seven questions. Three candidates, Joanna Lord, David Bellis and Johanne Kemmler responded. Here are their answers.
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Candidate: JOANNA LORD - email: [email protected] - Website: joannalord.ca
Q 1: Please tell us a bit about yourself and what made you decide to run in this election?
Joanna Lord: My name is Joanna Lord. I have deep roots in the North Cowichan community and cherish its cultural diversity, natural beauty and quality of life. I am running for Council because we need strong and wise leadership to guide our future. We stand at a crossroads between two sharply contrasting visions: either we make smart decisions that protect our environment with affording housing and prosperity for all, or we allow reckless urban sprawl to sacrifice everyone’s quality of life so that just a few profit. I am running because I will work hard on behalf of all North Cowichan residents to make our quality of life better.
Q 2: The climate science is clear – we need to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 45% from 2005 levels by 2030 to address the devastating climate impacts (heat waves, fires, floods, droughts) we face. Council passed a level 4 Zero Carbon building bylaw in 2024. What other priority actions to reduce GHG emissions locally will you advocate to get local government on course to meet that 45% reduction by 2030, less than 5 years from now.
Joanna Lord: Yes, the climate science is clear. Some priority actions to reduce GHG emissions I will advocate for are supporting the MNC 'Climate Action and Energy Plan' which is not only about reducing fossil fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions. It’s also about improving energy efficiency, which saves us all money as taxpayers. I will advocate for more local food production, minimizing how far our food is trucked in from to reduce shipping emissions. I will also advocate for providing people with more lower-emission transportation options, like mixed use paths, improved cycling infrastructure, and better public transit.
Q 3: Transportation, mostly in private cars and trucks, is reported to be responsible for 72% of GHG emissions in the Cowichan Valley. What three strategies to reduce emissions from transportation while also supporting local people getting where they need to go will you work to implement?
Joanna Lord: We need infrastructure investment that supports alternative forms of transportation, as outlined in North Cowichan’s recently adopted Master Transportation Plan – including sidewalks, multi-use paths, bike lanes, traffic calming measures and new bus stops to address traffic congestion and encouraging healthier lifestyles. This needs to be done fiscally responsibly, ideally as part of re-developing existing roads or by leveraging provincial and federal grants. Also important is adhering to the Official Community Plan and Climate Action and Energy Plan to connect transportation planning with land use and growth management in order to maintain and build our communities serving the needs of all residents fairly and wisely.
Q 4: We’re not only in a climate crisis, we’re in multiple overlapping crises, including affordable housing, homelessness, and the opioid overdose crises. If elected to local government, what solutions will you advocate to address these social and environmental crises in the Cowichan Valley, and do you see those solutions as being connected?
Joanna Lord: Solutions I will advocate for include making municipal land available for affordable housing and partnering with non-profits and co-op housing providers. Recently the provincial government announced an avenue for local governments to waive development cost charges (DCCs) for non-market homes within market housing projects, which would encourage development of more affordable housing. Homelessness and substance use are often intertwined. I would lobby senior levels of government to do more, including building an addictions treatment facility here so people can overcome their addictions and recieve more mental health supports, and to fund more temporary housing solutions like “The Village” in Duncan.
Q 5: North Cowichan recently updated and approved its Official Community Plan (OCP) with stronger social and environmental directions than its previous OCP and has passed bylaws to implement it. Do you support North Cowichan’s current approved OCP and if so, how will you help move the OCP forward, including implementing additional bylaws needed?
Joanna Lord: I strongly support North Cowichan’s Official Community Plan (OCP). I will help move the OCP forward by using its vision, principles, goals and frameworks to guide all decisions that come to the Council table. In terms of housing access and affordability, for example, I’m in favour of a diverse mix of housing types, faster processing, and exploring incentives to encourage developers to set aside a meaningful number of affordable units. This can be woven into the approval process, particularly those involving zoning changes, by requiring developers to front certain costs or pay into affordable housing funds.
Q 6: What do you consider the three most pressing issues facing North Cowichan as a local government and the one most important thing local government should do on each one?
Joanna Lord: 1) Sustainability – develop resiliency and self-sufficiency within our current economic and environmental context by identifying municipal lands capable of producing and processing food and fiber, address barriers to development so those barriers can be removed and a sustainable plan implemented; 2) Climate Change – direct Municipal staff to continue consulting with climate experts to develop models predicting sea level rise, rainfall and streamflow changes, and plans to mitigate those impacts; 3) Infrastructure deficit – identify existing needs for upkeep, repair and replacement of the Municipality’s urban service infrastructure in the context of the OCP and develop a plan to fund and implement those infrastructure improvements.
Q 7: As a local government rep, how would you contribute to working with other governments within our region, including with Local First Nations, as well as with the provincial and federal governments?
Joanna Lord: Through my work in our community and activism in my union and the broader labour movement, I have established working relationships with other governments in our region, including local First Nations, as well as with those in the provincial and federal governments. With my experience and background as an instructor and community leader, I am ready to hit the road running to get to work for all the residents of North Cowichan. For more information visit my website: joannalord.ca. I would be honoured to serve on Council and to have you cast your vote for me, Joanna Lord, on April 12.
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Candidate: DAVID BELLIS - e-mail: email is [email protected] website: www.bellis4council.ca
Q 1: Please tell us a bit about yourself and what made you decide to run in this election?
David Bellis: I’ve lived in the Valley for over 60 years; in North Cowichan for 25, working many jobs, with most of my career as an educator/administrator for SD 79. Over 37 years I worked with students from Grade 5 to 85 years old, spending hundreds of hours coaching sports at all levels. My last 10 years were spent running the Cowichan Adult Learning Centre, graduating over 600 students that decade - a rewarding and satisfying end to my career. The Valley’s been good to me. I would like to give something back. I’m healthy, and have time, energy and commitment for this job.
Q 2: The climate science is clear – we need to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 45% from 2005 levels by 2030 to address the devastating climate impacts (heat waves, fires, floods, droughts) we face. Council passed a level 4 Zero Carbon building bylaw in 2024. What other priority actions to reduce GHG emissions locally will you advocate to get local government on course to meet that 45% reduction by 2030, less than 5 years from now.
David Bellis: North Cowichan must lead by example. When I was at Royal Roads (2002-04) doing my Masters in Leadership, all campus vehicles were electric, 20 years ago! We need to make the same transition with urgency. Backyard burning needs to end - end of discussion. Some homes depend on wood stoves as their sole source of heat. For those folks, upgrades or energy efficient replacements are needed, ideally with almost no emissions, along with incentives to improve or replace. We know seedlings chew up carbon at a greater rate than mature trees; we need to keep planting in our MF Reserve.
Q 3: Transportation, mostly in private cars and trucks, is reported to be responsible for 72% of GHG emissions in the Cowichan Valley. What three strategies to reduce emissions from transportation while also supporting local people getting where they need to go will you work to implement?
David Bellis: I've mentioned municipal vehicles above. As well, we need to pressure BC Transit to transition their gas and natural gas vehicles to electric.
We need to encourage ride sharing, carpooling, and walking where practical. We need to encourage a greater ridership for our buses; perhaps BC transit could sponsor a "Ride for Free" month, to entice new users? Encourage the burgeoning use of bikes, e-bikes and scooters, none of which require insurance at present. Explore what is happening in other areas of the world around carbon capture initiatives.
Q 4: We’re not only in a climate crisis, we’re in multiple overlapping crises, including affordable housing, homelessness, and the opioid overdose crises. If elected to local government, what solutions will you advocate to address these social and environmental crises in the Cowichan Valley, and do you see those solutions as being connected?
David Bellis: These issues and their solutions are connected, and affordable housing has its own unique aspects. I brush shoulders with the homeless every day I go to work at my part time job at Save On Foods. I’ve witnessed a young man resuscitated twice in one day. Some folks are addicted, some have mental health issues, some both, and some are dying. We cannot deal with these problems on the streets. Everything we’re doing is a band-aid. Recovery can’s start until people have secure 24-hour shelter. Progress starts with housing. Build from there. Non-market, affordable housing needs provincial and federal help.
Q 5: North Cowichan recently updated and approved its Official Community Plan (OCP) with stronger social and environmental directions than its previous OCP and has passed bylaws to implement it. Do you support North Cowichan’s current approved OCP and if so, how will you help move the OCP forward, including implementing additional bylaws needed?
David Bellis: I support the OCP; it is the product of a tremendous amount of time, energy, staff expertise, and community involvement. While it is a "living document", as one sitting councillor described it, no amendments should be considered unless they are extraordinary. The development north of Herd Road considered by Council, while a complex issue, will do considerable harm to our OCP; I would vote against it. If new bylaws are necessary to enhance or protect the plan, I would vote in favor. We need to follow the OCP to have controlled and thoughtful growth that can be supported by our infrastructure.
Q 6: What do you consider the three most pressing issues facing North Cowichan as a local government and the one most important thing local government should do on each one?
David Bellis: 1) Homeless- Doing the same thing over and over again expecting different results is the definition of insanity. It’s a provincial and national problem, and locally we can start by providing secure shelter; 2) Affordable Housing - we need help to provide a leg up for low/middle income earners. $2,000 a month rent isn’t affordable. $750 000 for a house (average NC cost) isn’t affordable. Young people are leaving the province. We cannot afford that drain;
3) Property Taxes - Currently residential taxes make up 68% of the base; we must attract more heavy and light industry to the Valley.
Q 7: As a local government rep, how would you contribute to working with other governments within our region, including with Local First Nations, as well as with the provincial and federal governments?
David Bellis: These issues are Valley problems. We must work more closely with Duncan Council to explore solutions. Combined council meetings needed with one vision in mind, not bickering about boundary signage placement. I’ve mentioned the need to work with the province and federal governments around housing. If elected, I would make that cooperation a priority. NC is working on a Memorandum of Understanding with First Nations around use of the Municipal Forest Reserve and its co-management. Talks since 2021 have been glacial; only 1 public update so far. Acceleration needed! Good to see First Nations involved in new high school design.
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Candidate: JOHANNE KEMMLER - website: elect-johanne-kemmler.com
Q 1: Please tell us a bit about yourself and what made you decide to run in this election?
Johanne Kemmler: I decided to run because I'm experienced, capable, and ready to jump in. Having lived in North Cowichan for over 50 years, with my family growing up here, I deeply understand and care about our community. My years of experience as a school trustee, union executive, and community advocate have shaped me into a leader who listens, works hard, and strives to create positive change. I have significant insight into navigating political tables and understanding the rules that govern them. I'm passionate about improving our community through practical solutions that make a real difference for all residents of North Cowichan.
Q 2:The climate science is clear – we need to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 45% from 2005 levels by 2030 to address the devastating climate impacts (heat waves, fires, floods, droughts) we face. Council passed a level 4 Zero Carbon building bylaw in 2024. What other priority actions to reduce GHG emissions locally will you advocate to get local government on course to meet that 45% reduction by 2030, less than 5 years from now.
Johanne Kemmler: I would start with two key steps to meet this target. First, expanding electric vehicle support and transitioning our municipal fleet. This would include ensuring easily accessible charging stations in sufficient numbers to make EVs practical. New builds should also be required to install adequate charging stations based on the number of units. Second, solar power is an underutilized resource. While our Level 4 Zero Carbon bylaw promotes solar on new buildings, we should also encourage existing structures in municipalities and homeowners to adopt solar energy. Residents can be encouraged to invest in EVs and solar through incentives and education.
Q 3: Transportation, mostly in private cars and trucks, is reported to be responsible for 72% of GHG emissions in the Cowichan Valley. What three strategies to reduce emissions from transportation while also supporting local people getting where they need to go will you work to implement?
Johanne Kemmler: Better Public Transit & Active Transportation – Our transit system needs to be more frequent, reliable, and convenient so people can actually use it. We can also invest in safer bike lanes, better sidewalks, and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure to make walking and cycling real options.
Support for Electric Vehicles – More public EV charging stations, requiring new developments to include EV infrastructure, and transitioning municipal vehicles to electric. Smart Growth – If people can live closer to work, schools, and services, we reduce the need for long commutes. Mixed-use development and supporting local businesses will help keep jobs and essential services within our Community.
Q 4: We’re not only in a climate crisis, we’re in multiple overlapping crises, including affordable housing, homelessness, and the opioid overdose crises. If elected to local government, what solutions will you advocate to address these social and environmental crises in the Cowichan Valley, and do you see those solutions as being connected?
Johanne Kemmler: North Cowichan's housing and drug challenges are complex and connected—Fixes aren't simple. Real change comes from working together. By joining forces with Duncan, Quw'utsun Nation, and senior governments, we can tackle these problems head-on, creating lasting solutions for our
community. Once we have enough affordable and supportive housing, we'll be better positioned to tackle the opioid crisis. The first step toward real change is stable housing—when people have a safe place to call home, they can begin to rebuild their lives, addressing mental health, addiction, and employment
challenges. Investing in affordable and supportive housing isnt just compassionate; its essential.
Q 5: North Cowichan recently updated and approved its Official Community Plan (OCP) with stronger social and environmental directions than its previous OCP and has passed bylaws to implement it. Do you support North Cowichan’s current approved OCP and if so, how will you help move the OCP forward, including implementing additional bylaws needed?
Johanne Kemmler: I support the OCP as an essential guide for North Cowichan's future. It provides a clear vision for sustainable growth, housing, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship. As a long-term policy, the OCP should be a living document—one that can adapt to emerging challenges and evolving community needs. I support thoughtful, evidence-based adjustments when necessary, and also respect the extensive community input that shaped the original plan. Decisions about the OCP must be guided by its principles and vision. If elected, I'll make informed, thoughtful decisions; listening, learning, and taking action to serve the best interests of North Cowichan and its residents.
Q 6: What do you consider the three most pressing issues facing North Cowichan as a local government and the one most important thing local government should do on each one?
Johanne Kemmler: 1) Housing, Homelessness and the Opioid Crises: Affordable housing is a basic right, and we must ensure that our community can afford to live here. Working with developers, promoting co-op models, and offering rental incentives, can make housing accessible to all. Stable housing is key to addressing the opioid crisis, as it provides the foundation for mental health, addiction recovery, and employment support.
2) Infrastructure: with more proposed housing units than supporting infrastructure we need strategic planning and government support.
3) Tax Relief: New revenue streams along with traditional approaches. Revenue streams from underutilized municipal resources are an untapped resource.
Q 7: As a local government rep, how would you contribute to working with other governments within our region, including with Local First Nations, as well as with the provincial and federal governments?
Johanne Kemmler: Collaborative relationships, Open communication, and aligning efforts. As a government representative, I would focus on strong, collaborative relationships with all levels of government, including local First Nations, City of Duncan, CVRD, and provincial and federal partners. I believe in collective impact—working together with shared resources, expertise, and perspectives to create change. Open communication and mutual respect are key to addressing any challenges such as housing, homelessness, and climate change. I'd prioritize working with non-profit organizations, which play a vital role in our community. By aligning efforts and developing shared strategies, we can maximize our impact.
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