The general election is under a month away and there are 16 candidates vying for one of the six councillor seats in Penticton.

Local winemaker Katie O’Kell is hoping for one of those spots during next month’s election.

Over the past 11 year, she has helped her mother run Serendipity Winery in Naramata.

She has also worked for H&R Block, doing people’s taxes, for the past five years. 

O’Kell has volunteered on the boards of the Naramata Bench Wineries’ Association, the South Okanagan Women in Need Society and the South Okanagan Seniors’ Wellness Society.

Photo Credit: Katie O'Kell

Her campaign priorities include “leading Penticton into the future by putting economic development, affordability and community safety at the forefront.”

She says would like to see more accessible and affordable housing options in Penticton, support for the RCMP and promotion of small businesses. 

Additionally, she would like the city to work to attract new industries, small businesses and doctors and medical professionals to Penticton.

She also believes it is important to advocate for transparency and accountability at city hall.

“As our community grows, we need new voices at the council table to coordinate and drive investments in the infrastructure, services and amenities that Penticton needs to be sustainable and successful,” states O’Kell.

“I’m here and eager to serve. I want to be part of a city council that confronts our challenges head-on instead of pushing them into the future.”

This will be O’Kell’s first time running for city council.