The municipal election is under a month away and Penticton’s incumbent mayor, John Vassilaki, has four challengers.

Those contenders include councillor Julius Bloomfield, semi-retired resident Owen Hayward, tattoo shop owner Corey Hounslow and small-business owner Jason Reynen.

Vassilaki has served as Penticton’s mayor since the 2018 election when he ran against former mayor Andrew Jakubeit. He announced he would be seeking re-election in early September.

Julius Bloomfield also announced his candidacy this month. He has served one term as a city councillor. During his announcement he said it was a”pivotal time” for the future of Penticton.

The remaining three candidates are all new to municipal politics.

Hounslow says he will be focusing on creating affordable housing solutions, food security, investigating toxic drug supply and working to “rebuild the once vibrant tourism industry” in the city.

Reynen announced his candidacy last week. Reynen is the man behind the “Clean Streets “Penticton” Facebook group which held a rally at Gyro Park in July.

Hayward has had careers in education, transportation and trades. He believes the residents who call Penticton home “deserve better local government.”

Residents of Penticton can attend an all candidates forum on Tuesday to learn more about the 16 councillor candidates, six school trustees and five mayor candidates.

Pre-registration is required for this event, however, it is free to attend.

People looking to vote on Oct. 15 will have the chance to hear directly from each candidate, as they answer questions, share perspectives and priorities in their campaigns.

The chamber of commerce will be hosting the event from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm at the Penticton Seniors Drop-in Centre at 2965 South Main Street.

To submit a business related question in advance, send an email to info@penticton.org.