Councillor James Miller is looking to secure a seat on city council in the Oct. 15 election.

Miller was elected in the June 2021 by-election which was his first run at public office.

Miller believes that Penticton continues to face several issues such as the opioid crisis, crime reduction, lack of affordable housing and assistance for those experiencing homelessness.

He hopes to continue addressing these issues if he is re-elected.

Photo Credit: Contributed

In a statement, Miller says he will also emphasize support for not-for-profit festivals, reworking the RFP tendering process and restricting vacation rentals to primary residences only.

“I have consistently stuck up for local people and demonstrated that, when appropriate, I’m never afraid to ask the hard questions when something doesn’t seem like it should be,” Miller said.

“Next to the mayor, since COVID restrictions were lifted, I have attended more local events than any other member of council.”

Miller has been the managing editor of the Penticton Herald since 2008. He will be taking a leave of absence during the campaign.

If elected he will resume his duties at the news company with the same strict restrictions on city hall coverage.