With municipal election day coming up on Saturday, we asked the candidates for Terrace council seven of the most pressing issues this cycle.

You can find answers from all 12 candidates below:

James Cordeiro:

1) In your conversations around town, what would you say is the most important issue to voters in Terrace this election, and how would you tackle that issue?

The most vocal issue is the AI data centre which I’ll address in your next question. However, I think the general issues of taxation, development, and the social impacts of development which is mostly outside the city’s boundaries are being overshadowed.

To address those issues the city needs to continue to lobby the provincial government to make revenue sharing from large industrial projects outside the city’s taxable boundaries permanent. The city also needs to continue building an industrial tax base at the Skeena Industrial Development Park (SIDP) that generates industrial taxation, creates jobs, and has general community support. To address the social impacts from those developments we need to continue working with the province for the services we require such as the new detox, recovery, and social housing projects that are finally coming online after years of effort to secure those services. We have also successfully participated in the Province’s Repeat Violent Offending Intervention Initiative (ReVOII) and its Repeat Property Crime Offender program to address issues outside the healthcare system.

2) The idea of bringing an AI data centre to Terrace has become very polarizing lately. Where do you stand on that?

I do not support building an AI data centre in Terrace, including at the SIDP. A data centre is a poor industrial land use; it generates low non-industrial taxation, provides few jobs after construction, and uses land that would be better suited for uses that generate industrial taxation and provide jobs. See jamesforterrace.ca for further details and reasoning.

3) Industry investments are strongly needed to reduce the tax load on residents, but the Skeena Industrial Development Park remains empty. What kind of projects should we be looking to attract, and how do you make it more attractive to developers?

Despite having Global Dewatering and Axis Mountain Technical as tenants the SIDP still requires water infrastructure to be completed before it will be suitable for larger industrial uses. The city continues to work with both the Federal and Provincial governments to secure support for building that infrastructure. Once that infrastructure is in place my support for any project requires either adequate industrial taxation or significant long-term job creation. A project that does not deliver at least one of those will require overwhelming public support as a condition for my support.

4) What can be done to improve the availability and affordability of rental housing in the City? How can we make renting more attractive to property owners?

Several issues limit market housing growth in Terrace. We have seen a number of non-market and income geared projects either completed or currently under construction and we are hopeful the Métis Nation BC’s Phase 2 project at the Coop land will proceed with up to 120 new units. We have also seen 43 new seniors units built on Park Ave. Market housing prices, however, are increasing because construction costs which result in higher rent prices and fewer rental properties being constructed. The city can make more land available by lobbying the province to release surplus Crown land within the city which could offset construction costs with lower land acquisition costs. Should the province release those Crown lands to the city, the city could then require mixed-use (income geared, affordable, and market) rental housing as a condition of sale to developers.

5) How can the City better involve local First Nations in the City’s decision-making processes?

The city should continue outreach and relationship building with local First Nations as our Mayor has done with both Kitsumkalum and Kitselas. Both Nations’ priorities are laid out in their Treaty documents. While the city is not a party to that Treaty we should and continue to work with both Nations on relevant municipal issues such as servicing agreements and our joint venture with Kitselas. It is essential to maintain and build those relationships before issues arise so that dialogue can be built on a foundation of trust. It is also important to recognize that the city and the mayor are not on the same governmental level as First Nations. Chief Councillors Sam and Bennet’s governmental counterpart is the Prime Minister not the Mayor of Terrace.

The city must be a ready and willing participant in any issues affecting local First Nations, but it must also understand its role.

6) Do you think the current public transportation options are adequate?

No and this is generally the case in all of Northern BC. I have stated on numerous occasions that the inadequate public transportation provided by the Province is doubly unfair to residents, especially when we are subject to things like carbon pricing, gas taxes, and other climate regulations but aren’t provided the same level of alternative choices available in the Lower Mainland.

7) How would you describe yourself to voters?

James Cordeiro is an Aries. Those who know him might say that explains a few things.

He brings experience to the job, and he isn’t afraid to ask hard questions. If something doesn’t add up, he’ll say so. He wants to know what a decision will cost, whether it will work, and what it means for the people who live here.

James respects people enough to be honest with them, including when he knows his answer won’t be popular. You won’t always agree with him, but you’ll know where he stands and why.

And he’ll hear you out. Having a point of view doesn’t mean he has nothing left to learn.

Chris Apps:

1) In your conversations around town, what would you say is the most important issue to voters in Terrace this election, and how would you tackle that issue?

I think the concerns that have been raised with me the most relate to the effects our City is experiencing caused by industrial development in the region. Our community members understand that development brings great opportunity, and with that comes the impacts that change our town. Some of those changes are manifested in new issues the community has not experienced before as evidenced by growing concerns about air quality. In other instances, concerns or issues that were present before these major projects are intensified, such as housing costs and accessibility, and crime.

To tackle this, I will continue to support our work on renewing and strengthening the Northwest BC Regional Funding Agreement, also known as the Resource Benefits Alliance deal. Predictable, long-term funding will help the city fund critical programming that can serve to mitigate some of these impacts and by investing in the infrastructure and services we provide, our community members will be able to see and feel the benefits of these projects, rather than the impacts alone.

2) The idea of bringing an AI data centre to Terrace has become very polarizing lately. Where do you stand on that?

This is a super tough question. I have spent too many hours reading about the different classes and types of data centers out there, trying to focus on the Canadian context specifically so as to avoid parallels with the nightmarish stories we are hearing south of the boarder resulting from what appears to be a non-existent regulatory environment.

I think it would be folly to not have conversations with our community about these things. A regulatory component must be part of the approach. As in my previous response there are inherent trade offs that require discussion and I think that if we as a community in search of industrial tax revenue are signalling to industry, along with the provincial and federal governments that are supporting the development of data centers that we are outright against this industry, it could potentially impact our community in a negative way as well.

One thing that is difficult is regulating the types of data processing that may occur within these developments. AI data centers have specific limits to the amount of power they can access under provincial legislation. Data centers, by contrast, require less power. The tools in our toolbox can focus on these types thresholds and we can align them to the level of comfort the community voices.

Water service for SIDP is critical to attracting users for these lands. Our team, in collaboration with Kitselas, has worked incredibly hard over the last several years to raise this issue to the Provincial and Federal Governments. We are on the right track, and talks are progressing towards potential funding to support this expensive undertaking. Until this is resolved, it feels premature to focus on one particular type of development for these lands.

4) What can be done to improve the availability and affordability of rental housing in the City? How can we make renting more attractive to property owners?

Ultimately, housing and legislative tools to affect it fall under Provincial jurisdiction. Since 2022, more than 120 new non-market rental units have been constructed, with another 100+ units on the way.

In the realm of market rentals, attracting developers is necessary to build more units, which unfortunately seems to be inhibited by the sheer costs of building in the north. I would continue to lobby the provincial government to work with northern communities such as Terrace to develop programs and incentives that will attract housing developers to our city.

5) How can the City better involve local First Nations in the City’s decision-making processes?

The partnership between Kitselas First Nation and the City related to SIDP is an excellent example of the types of arrangements that bring our governments and communities closer together. While City-related decision making is ultimately the responsibility of Terrace’s Mayor and Council, this does not preclude Terrace, Kitselas, Kitsumkalum and other Nations from collaborating to ensure these decisions are informed by their knowledge and work for their communities. Most importantly, strong working relationships between our governments are essential to ensuring the members of each of our communities are represented and able to use and access the services they deserve.

6) Do you think the current public transportation options are adequate?

I have not personally received feedback on the current state of public transportation in the City, with the exception of Handi-Dart services. On this, Council has received feedback that the level of service provided by BC Transit requires careful attention. I was vocal during this discussion that users who rely on Handi-Dart services deserved greater scheduling flexibility when accessing this service, and was pleased to support the decision to provide an addition time slot for users.

7) How would you describe yourself to voters?

I would describe myself as a very practical person that cares deeply for the institutions and processes of governance. Beyond my term on Council, I have background in public policy and have devoted my education and career to public administration and local government decision-making, primarily in Indigenous communities. I place a great deal of importance in consistency and finding the rational solution to a problem through consideration of every aspect of it.

Billy Olak:

1) In your conversations around town, what would you say is the most important issue to voters in Terrace this election, and how would you tackle that issue?

There isn’t a main “issue” that we can pinpoint or highlight this round of elections. Housing, addiction, the unhoused, the at risk, jobs and gas/diesel prices are heavy topics. I don’t know how to answer all of that in a short form, but I will say that I look forward to handling any problem the City needs to be highlighting.

2) The idea of bringing an AI data centre to Terrace has become very polarizing lately. Where do you stand on that?

AI Data Centers are useless. They have no bearing on any thing other than to make money for said operator of said data center. It doesn’t generate jobs, only revenue. The question is that we need to educate on what data centers we need.

IDCs and forcing bigger providers to provide a new source of network to the north is what we need.

If we can install a good IDC. (Internet Data Center) is something that can force that conversation. It’s not just for a main person to make money, but as a redundant tool that can help us remain offline and force those conversations to the ones who provide us that critical infrastructure.

May and August are great examples of what happened.

I don’t have any comments as I think very differently on said topic. It’s a good investment when we are at peace. We are in a trade war with our biggest trading partner. What we do need to do is find something that is economical and sustainable through troubling times.

But again, that’s not my expertise.

4) What can be done to improve the availability and affordability of rental housing in the City? How can we make renting more attractive to property owners?

We dont have to if the cost of living goes higher and higher.

We are seeing more people choose to rent and the price of housing go up as well. It’s a bubble that will pop one day.

Then the cycle starts over again.

5) How can the City better involve local First Nations in the City’s decision-making processes?

By actually inviting them for serious conversations. Don’t pick and choose who to invite. It’s not about the status quo’s, it’s about a people’s heritage and tradition. It shouldn’t be used as a political or economic tool to satisfy people.

It should be used with honor and respect.

6) Do you think the current public transportation options are adequate?

No. And I can expand on that on the forum.

7) How would you describe yourself to voters?

I’m a gamer, a data analyst, a computer engineer, a husband and a nerd. I’m also a Prime. Everyone has the
right to freedom, no matter your opinion, political opinions, gender and sexual preference.

But I am also a God fearing man. Sola Scriptora and all that.

I will never shy away from announcing my Lord. But I also understand that you need to be respective of
all things, and even if I have a different faith than most, it’s the beauty of freedom.

I will die for people’s right to have an opinion.

Deb Willeman:

1) In your conversations around town, what would you say is the most important issue to voters in Terrace this election, and how would you tackle that issue?

Your first question actually answers this question for me as these concerns are in the forefront of their minds. I let them know that if I am elected I can at least be their voice.

2) The idea of bringing an AI data centre to Terrace has become very polarizing lately. Where do you stand on that?

I strongly disagree on having an AI data centre in Terrace or the Skeena district. We cannot jeopardize our environment.

We should try and work together to bring in industries that would utilize our communities Kitimat and Prince Rupert who have resources that can benefit us. With Rio Tinto and the port we could move things anywhere. Developers could see a potential with working with our neighbour’s, I’m not sure of what kind of project.

4) What can be done to improve the availability and affordability of rental housing in the City? How can we make renting more attractive to property owners?

It’s encouraging to see new rental housing being built. With the low income housing the income determines the rent. I’m not sure how to answer this question as owners of private homes set their own prices.

5) How can the City better involve local First Nations in the City’s decision-making processes?

This question is very crucial as far as I’m concerned. The city would benefit greatly by having input and suggestions on how we can work together to improve both of our communities. We can’t stand alone.

6) Do you think the current public transportation options are adequate?

We would benefit by more Handy Dart services. It would be advantageous to add more runs to there current schedule.

7) How would you describe yourself to voters?

The majority of people don’t know me but I consider myself a honest person and I consider others feelings and opinions. I take pride in my community and also desire a safe environment to live in.

Jesse Olynik:

1) In your conversations around town, what would you say is the most important issue to voters in Terrace this election, and how would you tackle that issue?

This was the hardest question to answer here because I received so many responses to the same question, and they were all intertwined together as either catalyst, product, or byproduct of each other. However, the main takeaway I got from people was that accessibility and accountability to the city’s leadership is a challenge. I spoke with many people who feel unheard, and that felt like their greatest frustration. We need to find ways to increase civic engagement in our town, and build a communal sense of belonging. This is our town, and involvement is crucial to feeling that sense of belonging. I can’t do that alone or through any single initiative, but I intend to be as accessible as possible to people as a resource – to show them where to look, who to ask, what information they may need to satisfy their queries.

2) The idea of bringing an AI data centre to Terrace has become very polarizing lately. Where do you stand on that?

Data centers: Yes, this is highly discussed publicly. We must remember that at this time, there is no actual proposal or project underway. As a community, we have an amazing opportunity to get ahead of this and ensure our residents’ wishes and concerns are heard before the day someone wants to build. Technology and innovation are moving at an incredible pace; the technology in these data centers is already advancing beyond the earliest models, making them outdated. I could never support a massive data center that occupies land, consumes significant water and electricity, generates little tax revenue, and provides minimal local jobs—that’s a hard no. However, we must be cautious about blanket-banning any industry or technology here, because doing so might cause us to miss future opportunities that evolve and align more closely with our community’s wishes. We also have very few spaces something like this could be built. If we consider the Skeena Industrial Park lands as everyone suggests, let’s not forget we need to talk to our neighbor and partner with whom we share that land—Kitselas – and hear what they have to say as well. These are not simple policies decided at Terrace’s table alone.

The greatest obstacle to developing the Skeena Industrial land is that adequate services are currently unavailable for anyone to open or start anything there. We cannot even begin to attract industry if we lack the space for them to set up shop. They need water, power, fuel, and energy. Working with our Kitselas partners to get this space serviced and ready must be a priority for the incoming council. The longer it sits empty, the more we miss opportunities for tax revenue, industry growth, local jobs, and local development. In terms of incentives or ways to attract industry, we have some amazing local talent and opportunities for expansion in local businesses and our own Chamber of Commerce. There are a number of massive projects happening in this area that we need to be ready to get our share of economic activity from, as well as be prepared to create some permanency for the businesses and people these projects will build here. To make this more enticing for developers, aside from incentivizing desired development, the city could perhaps re-examine our Development Cost Charges bylaw. This bylaw was based on projections from the 2018 Official Community Plan and may no longer properly reflect the reality of growth, or the struggles developers face in logistics and material costs, which the COVID era exacerbated. Not being an engineer or planner myself, this is of course just an idea and takes alot of review and professional input.

I believe Terrace also has even greater potential in destination tourism than we leverage. Scalable tourism, that we can increase without damaging the area’s natural beauty.

4) What can be done to improve the availability and affordability of rental housing in the City? How can we make renting more attractive to property owners?

Affordable housing is a challenge at all levels of government, but I believe some of the things we can do as a city are already underway through zoning and land use decisions, and having a modern community plan. In addition to these, programs like the Affordable BC Campaign through the BCGEU try to address housing through measures like vacancy control and inclusionary zoning. The city can support these initiatives and advocate for them to higher levels of government. We must be careful not to focus so entirely on one demographic or housing type that we neglect others, because those are not fit-all solutions.

5) How can the City better involve local First Nations in the City’s decision-making processes?

I would like to see a Council to Council type meeting or event, perhaps a few a year where First Nations and Municipal leaders can get together to discuss matters together. Continuing dialogue and understanding the strengths and challenges that your partners have is key to making lasting and mutually beneficial relations between any groups. The City of Terrace handles First Nations relations largely through city staff and leadership, and the initiatives it undertakes as part of Truth and Reconciliation. It may be interested in exploring a more fixed position for a liaison between the municipality and local First Nation governments.

6) Do you think the current public transportation options are adequate?

I have rarely used public transportation in Terrace, so this is hard for me to answer. The City of Terrace 2025 Annual Report indicates some 73% of people who drive have a commute of 15 minutes or less, so this tells me either public transit is inconvenient to them, or they have a preference to drive for one reason or another. I would be interested in exploring some alternate mobility options within the municipality, as well as closely examining how we maintain our sidewalks in the winter season to help reduce the number of short-trip cars on the road.

7) How would you describe yourself to voters?

Describing me – I have spent the last 5 years as a Public Servant in the Province, so I am no stranger to operating responsibly with public money, being held to account for my words and actions, and working within the existing guidelines to find real solutions for problems that were often unforeseen when those guidelines were established. My partner and I moved to Terrace 5 years ago for a 2 year posting and fell in love with the community and its people. This is the core of my drive behind wanting to be involved in Council, to maintain the forward momentum we have going as well as bring a fresh and energetic take to the future of this place that we have made our home.

Joe Lavoie:

1) In your conversations around town, what would you say is the most important issue to voters in Terrace this election, and how would you tackle that issue?

In my conversations with residents, the pressure on household budgets, and property taxes in particular, comes up again and again. People love living in Terrace, but they’re feeling the cost of it.

Right now, residential taxpayers carry too much of the load. A strong industrial tax base is one of the most effective ways to change that. Industry pays a much higher tax rate than homeowners do, so every dollar of industrial assessment we add is a dollar that doesn’t have to come from a family’s tax bill. It also means we can pay for the services residents care about, like recreation, public safety and infrastructure, without constantly turning to homeowners to fund them. Terrace carries many of the regional impacts of industrial growth, including the traffic, the demand on services and the pressure on housing, but we don’t receive the same industrial tax base as some neighbouring communities. I want to fix that imbalance. That means supporting the Mayor and City Manager in advocating to the provincial and federal governments for resources that offset the pressures growth creates, advocating for the Resource Benefits Alliance to become permanent, and supporting city staff in the responsible development of our industrial land. Growing the tax base is how we ease

2) The idea of bringing an AI data centre to Terrace has become very polarizing lately. Where do you stand on that?

I’ve heard the strong and sincere positions in both Terrace and the wider region, and I take them seriously. Whether people are in the minority or the majority, their voices matter on an issue this important and Council has a responsibility to listen carefully before making any decision. My own view is that an AI data centre is not the best use of our land base as an economic driver. Land is one of the most valuable assets Terrace has, and I want it used for development that creates lasting, meaningful employment and a more diversified economy. Data centres typically employ few people once they’re built, and I’d rather see us prioritize projects that put more local people to work and strengthen our economy more broadly.

It’s also important to be realistic about our role. Terrace is only one of the players in this region, and our position doesn’t prevent any other government in the region from allowing a project like this. That’s why I believe the right approach is to stay engaged, keep listening to residents, and make sure Terrace’s voice is heard on how regional decisions affect our community.

I favour development that creates jobs and supports a more sustainable, diversified economy. For the industrial park, that means the kinds of businesses that support the growth of the Northwest, such as supply chain, logistics, and service and support industries. I’ve spent my career working on infrastructure and supply chain projects across Northern BC, so I understand what those businesses look for when they decide where to invest.

This work is already underway. As President of the TDIA, and someone who has been involved for the last three years, I’ve seen firsthand how much groundwork goes into attracting investment. The TDIA received a REDIP grant from the provincial government to create an investment attraction plan, and that kind of strategic, evidence-based approach is exactly what we need to apply to the industrial park. A plan lets us identify the right industries, target our outreach and present Terrace as a place that’s ready for business.

To make the park more attractive to developers, I’d focus on serviced, shovel-ready land, clear and timely permitting, and a city that’s easy to work with. I’d also support the City in working with regional partners and senior governments to secure infrastructure funding, so that the park is a real opportunity and not just an empty lot.

4) What can be done to improve the availability and affordability of rental housing in the City? How can we make renting more attractive to property owners?

The most effective long-term solution to housing affordability is supply. When there are more homes and more rental options, rents and prices ease. The City can’t build all of that itself, but it can create the conditions that make it easier for others to build.

I favour housing density in planned areas. Directing growth to the places where it makes the most sense, close to services, transit and existing infrastructure, allows us to add homes efficiently without stretching city resources. I’d also support more senior housing. When seniors have good options to downsize, they free up larger homes for growing families, which opens up housing across the entire market.

I also want to incentivize secondary units on existing housing. Suites and carriage homes let homeowners add rental supply while helping with their own affordability, and they add homes without needing new land or major new infrastructure.

To make renting more attractive to property owners, the City should focus on predictability: streamlined approvals, clear rules, and fewer barriers to building or adding units. When it’s easier to build and rent, more people will do it, and that benefits everyone.

5) How can the City better involve local First Nations in the City’s decision-making processes?

First Nations make up a meaningful part of Terrace’s current population, so engagement has to come in all forms. That means strong government-to-government relationships with the neighbouring nations, but it also means hearing from First Nations residents, families, businesses and community organizations who live and work in Terrace every day.

I’d support engaging early, before decisions are made rather than after, and through a range of channels, including formal meetings, community conversations and ongoing relationship-building. Good decisions come from good relationships, and Terrace is stronger when everyone who calls it home has a real voice in how it grows.

6) Do you think the current public transportation options are adequate?

Reliable transit matters for seniors, youth, workers and anyone without a vehicle, and I don’t think we should assume the current service is where it needs to be. I’d want to hear directly from riders about where the gaps are, whether that’s hours, routes or frequency, and work with BC Transit on realistic improvements that fit our budget.

7) How would you describe yourself to voters?

I’m a husband and a father first. My wife and I are raising three young children here in Terrace, all under the age of eight, and everything I do, from my work to this campaign, comes back to leaving a community they’ll be proud to call home. That’s what “For Family and Future”; means to me. I involve my kids in what I do, from putting up signs to my businesses, because I want them to understand the value of hard work, service and giving back.

I’m also a business owner. I’m an owner of Copperside, a company founded right here in Terrace, where we deliberately employ more local staff than many other businesses because our people are what make us work. My career has been spent building businesses and supporting infrastructure and supply chain projects across Northern BC, which has taught me how to balance long-term planning, fiscal responsibility and community needs.

I bring governance experience as well. I’ve spent seven years on the Board of Directors of Northern Savings Credit Union, the last two as Board Chair. That’s a billion-dollar, member-owned regional organization, and it’s given me hands-on experience with large budgets, managing risk and setting long-term direction while trusting talented people to do the work. As President of the TDIA, I’ve been involved for the last three years in supporting the business community and working on investment attraction for Terrace.

My approach to problems goes back a long way. At twelve, I helped create Haida Gwaii’s recycling industry by starting a Return-It depot, which earned national recognition as one of Canada’s Top 20 Under 20. Years later, I helped build a $4.9 million fibre-to-the-home network on Haida Gwaii with federal and provincial support. The approach was the same each time: identify the problem, learn the industry, bring people together and deliver results. I’m confident in my convictions and I have strong opinions, but I listen first and make decisions once I understand all sides. I believe in practical, responsive local government that supports its staff, respects taxpayers and gets things done. I’d be honoured to earn your vote on October 17.

Josh Elgert:

1) In your conversations around town, what would you say is the most important issue to voters in Terrace this election, and how would you tackle that issue?

Housing and homelessness would be my first priority. I’d work with the people affected, local organizations and provincial partners on practical steps with clear responsibilities, costs and results residents can see. We should be able to explain what we’re doing and whether it’s working.

2) The idea of bringing an AI data centre to Terrace has become very polarizing lately. Where do you stand on that?

I’d need to understand the actual proposal before taking a position: lasting jobs and revenue, power and water requirements, infrastructure costs, impacts on residents and First Nations, and who carries the long-term responsibilities. Those tradeoffs need to be public and understandable.

I’d favour projects that create lasting local jobs, opportunities for local businesses and a genuine financial benefit for residents. We need to account for the full costs, including infrastructure and eventual cleanup. Clear requirements and communication can make the City easier to work with while protecting residents from costs that belong to the project.

4) What can be done to improve the availability and affordability of rental housing in the City? How can we make renting more attractive to property owners?

I’d start by listening to tenants, property owners and housing providers about the barriers they face. Clear municipal requirements and practical partnerships can help make additional housing more workable. We should judge proposals by their costs and whether they deliver more stable, affordable housing.

5) How can the City better involve local First Nations in the City’s decision-making processes?

When an issue touches First Nations, they should be consulted early, and their feedback reflected in council. I’ll be honest about the tradeoffs. That means involving them while there’s still room to shape a decision and explaining how their input affected the outcome.

6) Do you think the current public transportation options are adequate?

The test for me is whether people can reliably get to work, appointments and the services they need. I’d listen to riders about where current options fall short, then weigh the costs and practical benefits of improvements against those everyday needs.

7) How would you describe yourself to voters?

My background is in finance, helping local businesses solve problems, manage costs and plan. I’d bring that same care to council: listen, understand the numbers and be honest about the tradeoffs. I won’t pretend to have every answer. What I offer is quiet competence and a willingness to do the work.

Keenan Stella:

1) In your conversations around town, what would you say is the most important issue to voters in Terrace this election, and how would you tackle that issue?

In my conversations around the community the potential construction of an AI data centre has consistently come up as an important issue. From the people I’ve talked to while canvassing, opposition to an AI data centre is nearly unanimous, with most residents being strongly opposed. If elected I would seek to represent the views of the community in this regard and push for a municipal ban or moratorium on the construction of any data centres in city limits and pressure my fellow councillors to follow suit.

2) The idea of bringing an AI data centre to Terrace has become very polarizing lately. Where do you stand on that?

I am wholly opposed to bringing AI data centres to Terrace. AI data centres use vast quantities of water and electricity while creating significant amounts of noise and heat. This poses a direct threat to our community’s water supply, our environment, and the mental health of those living within earshot of it. It would have significant impacts on our power usage, putting strain on the grid and causing hydro bills to skyrocket. This does not constitute a worthwhile trade off for the short term construction jobs it would provide, and, to many I have spoken to, represents an existential threat to our community.

I think rather than focusing on resource extraction projects which have largely bypassed paying into the community’s tax base we should be trying to attract industries that provide stable, well paying jobs for people in the community, with an emphasis on sustainability and self-sufficiency.

4) What can be done to improve the availability and affordability of rental housing in the City? How can we make renting more attractive to property owners?

For years the prevailing logic has been that we need to build more housing in Terrace, and while this is still important, building more houses in and of itself has proven not to be enough. I think it would be valuable to look into creating a system of tax incentives to put the onus on property owners to meet the market where it is at in terms of rental costs rather than keeping prices high even if it means the space will go unrented.

5) How can the City better involve local First Nations in the City’s decision-making processes?

I think it would be incredibly beneficial for the City of Terrace to improve its relationship with local First Nations and include them in the decision making process, especially when it comes to things that have wide ranging implications for the region.

6) Do you think the current public transportation options are adequate?

No, our public transit is both inadequate and underused. Many in our community do not have a vehicle and rely on buses and cabs to go about their day, but bus service is limited and cabs are often unavailable. I would like to see the city do more to maximize the use and efficiency of public transit, as well as improving walkability and bike lanes in our community. These may seem trivial to some but increased use of public transit would likely save money in the long run as it would reduce the need for the continuous upkeep of our cities roads.

7) How would you describe yourself to voters?

I am a lifelong Terrace resident with a passion for music, culture, and the great outdoors. I have spent the last 3 years working as a support worker for Ksan Society and promoting music events within the community.

Lynne Wright:

1) In your conversations around town, what would you say is the most important issue to voters in Terrace this election, and how would you tackle that issue?

Honestly, housing comes up more than anything else when I’m out talking to people. Our rental stock has actually shrunk — we went from 595 units in 2016 to 410 now, and vacancy is under 1%. The City’s own Housing Needs Report says we need 793 new units by 2029, and over 900 of those need to be rentals.

— what my suggestion would be …

What I want to do is publish where we actually stand against that target every year, by type, so people can
see if we’re making real progress or just talking about it.

2) The idea of bringing an AI data centre to Terrace has become very polarizing lately. Where do you stand on that?

This needs to go to a public hearing — full stop. Residents deserve to weigh in directly on something this big, not have it decided behind closed doors.

*My biggest concern is power access: as more major projects come knock on the door, I want to make sure local residents and businesses actually get fair access to BC Hydro power, not have it all get eaten up by whoever.

I want projects that bring real local jobs, not just a big footprint and a handful of workers.

** We’ve got strengths in forestry, rail, and our spot on Highway 16 — let’s build on those instead of chasing whatever lands in our lap.

— And honestly, water servicing is the real barrier holding the park back right now. I’d push for a joint water funding request made together with Kitselas, since it’s their land too, and their partnership in the solution.

4) What can be done to improve the availability and affordability of rental housing in the City? How can we make renting more attractive to property owners?

Step one is just being honest about where we stand — I’d report our vacancy numbers and unit counts every year against the City’s own targets. To make renting more attractive to property owners, I think the City needs to get out of its own way on things like secondary suite and infill approvals. We’ve already got some movement — 43 seniors’ units at Park Seniors Housing/Foundry Terrace, 39 more coming on Kenney Street — and I want the City tracking and reporting on that kind of progress consistently, not just announcing it once and moving on.

5) How can the City better involve local First Nations in the City’s decision-making processes?

This can’t just be consultation after the decision’s already made. I want a regularly scheduled meeting between the City, Kitselas, and Kitsumkalum — not an occasional check-in when it’s convenient — with written agreements on shared land and projects, and the Nations at the table first. We’re neighbours and this is traditional territory- in order for us to look after our land, we need to acknowledge on paper, who stands where. To ensure our waters are looked after, our surrounding forests and lands are looked after.

Reconciliation needs real targets and dates, set jointly, not just a nice line in a plan.

6) Do you think the current public transportation options are adequate?

We’ve got ten BC Transit routes, which covers a decent amount of ground, including Kitsumkalum and Thornhill — that part’s good.

*It’s good to know that I sat in on the discussions when it was decided which routes and where <as Kitselas Council>. One thing I pushed was if anyone was alone or needing a ride on the highway that you would pull over and provide a safe ride. I also provided my input – and pushed for the low amount charged $2.00- to ensure it’s not a barrier for anyone to take the bus.

**But I think frequency and evening/weekend service need a real look, especially for folks working shift work or who don’t have a vehicle. Having a route on paper isn’t the same as it actually working for people’s lives.

7) How would you describe yourself to voters?

Born and raised in Terrace, raised my four kids here too – Charles, James, Euleina, and Ryland. Twenty years in housing, recovery, and community work across this region, plus two terms on Kitselas Council chairing Finance and Audit Committee.

I’m not new to this work — I’ve been doing it a long time, and I want a seat on Council so I can keep doing it with a bigger reach.

Miller Restan:

1) In your conversations around town, what would you say is the most important issue to voters in Terrace this election, and how would you tackle that issue?

We’ve had a lot of great door-to-door engagement around Terrace, with lots of folks sharing what’s top of mind for them, and the most consistent concern is community safety. People want to feel safe downtown, in their neighbourhoods and at their businesses. Homelessness is a human problem, so we need to be proactive instead of reactive, working with the people who deal with this every day, keeping our RCMP and bylaw officers visible and well trained, and pushing the Province and Northern Health for the detox, treatment and mental health supports our community needs.

2) The idea of bringing an AI data centre to Terrace has become very polarizing lately. Where do you stand on that?

Early on, I wanted more information before taking a position, and I support the City’s decision to regulate data centres separately from other industrial uses because it gives residents a real say. As I learned more about the water, power and tax impacts, I came to the view that large data centres aren’t the right fit for Terrace. They’re massive, power-hungry facilities that create very few long-term jobs, and their low tax classification means the City doesn’t see the benefit. After a summer of Stage 3 water restrictions, I’d rather see our power and water go to industries that hire local people and build our economy.

We should be attracting projects that create lasting local jobs, like manufacturing, processing and suppliers to LNG, mining and the transmission line. The biggest barrier is servicing, so I’d support bringing water to the park with costs shared by senior government and industry, in partnership with Kitselas. Combined with making Terrace the easiest place in the Northwest to get a permit approved, that growing industrial base takes pressure off homeowners and small businesses. The goal is long-term, stable employment, not the next boom-and-bust trend.

4) What can be done to improve the availability and affordability of rental housing in the City? How can we make renting more attractive to property owners?

In my eyes the best way to improve affordability is to build more, and that starts with seeing the new Official Community Plan through, since we’re still working from a 2018 plan. Once it’s in place, projects that fit the plan can be approved faster and at lower cost, including small apartments in more neighbourhoods. To encourage owners to rent, the City can make it simpler and cheaper to legalize secondary suites and carriage homes. More supply means more choice for renters and fairer prices for everyone.

5) How can the City better involve local First Nations in the City’s decision-making processes?

Kitselas and Kitsumkalum are our neighbours and partners, and they should be at the table from the start, not consulted after decisions are made. I’d support a formal council-to-council agreement and working government to government on the things we share, like housing, servicing and economic development. Through my work with Cheslatta Carrier Nation, I’ve seen how strong partnerships create jobs, investment and certainty for the whole region.

6) Do you think the current public transportation options are adequate?

For a growing city, I don’t think it’s quite where it needs to be yet, especially for shift workers, seniors and students who need evening and weekend options. As major projects bring more workers to the region, better local and regional connections will matter even more. I would look to work with BC Transit and industry partners to grow service in a way that’s sustainable for taxpayers.

7) How would you describe yourself to voters?

I moved from Colombia to Canada at 13, learned English, and built a career in major projects, from BC Hydro’s John Hart Dam to Rio Tinto’s Kemano T2 Project. The T2 Project first brought me to the Northwest and I stayed, because of the community and care that’s present here. My focus for Terrace is a safer community, a budget that holds up, and a town with room to grow.

Nikki Villeneuve:

1) In your conversations around town, what would you say is the most important issue to voters in Terrace this election, and how would you tackle that issue?

Community safety is a priority in the conversations I am having, and it is closely connected to housing, homelessness and access to support. People want to feel safe downtown, in their neighbourhoods and using public spaces.

I would work with local organizations, surroujding First Nations, emergency services and residents on practical steps we can take now: better lighting, well-maintained public spaces, outreach and clear ways to report concerns. I would also advocate for housing, mental health care and addiction services. We need to protect people while addressing the reasons they are struggling.

2) The idea of bringing an AI data centre to Terrace has become very polarizing lately. Where do you stand on that?

I do not support bringing an AI data centre to Terrace. I am concerned about its potential demands on electricity and water, its environmental impacts and whether the lasting benefits would justify those demands.

We all love where we live, and we are stewards of this land. I want economic development that creates meaningful local employment and protects the environment. Residents and local First Nations deserve clear information and a meaningful voice in these decisions.

I would like to attract a mix of businesses that provide steady employment, such as value-added wood manufacturing, equipment repair, light manufacturing and businesses supplying regional industries. A diverse economy would help us become less dependent on any single major project.

The park is already a partnership with Kitselas First Nation, and its future should be planned together. We need clear information about available land, servicing costs and development timelines, along with a predictable approval process. Any incentives should come with measurable public benefits, including local jobs and tax revenue that exceeds the costs of supporting the development.

4) What can be done to improve the availability and affordability of rental housing in the City? How can we make renting more attractive to property owners?

We need more rental choices for families, seniors, young people and people with lower incomes. I would support purpose-built rentals, secondary suites and smaller housing options, alongside partnerships with BC Housing, Indigenous housing providers and nonprofit organizations.

For property owners, the City can make the process of creating a legal rental unit easier to understand through clear guidance and timely permits. I would explore incentives tied to long-term rental commitments and affordability. We should also connect owners with organizations that offer supported tenancy arrangements. The goal is to give owners confidence while providing renters with safe, stable homes.

We can also strengthen our infrastructure to support small-scale, multi-unit housing on land that once allowed only single-family homes.

5) How can the City better involve local First Nations in the City’s decision-making processes?

First Nations should be involved early, while there is still a meaningful opportunity to shape a decision. I would support regular meetings with Kitselas and Kitsumkalum leadership, jointly developed priorities and opportunities to work together on housing, infrastructure, economic development and environmental protection.

As a Nisga’a and Gitxsan woman living on Tsimshian territory, I value respectful relationships. The City should respect each Nation’s governance and ask how they want to participate. Meaningful involvement also means showing how their input influenced the final decision.

We can build better relationships with all surrounding Nations that support our community. Those that travel to shop at our local businesses. The Nisga’a Nation alone, spend 70 million per year in Terrace.

6) Do you think the current public transportation options are adequate?

I believe there is room for improvement. Transit needs to work for people getting to jobs, school, medical appointments, shopping and community activities, including those whose schedules fall outside regular daytime hours.

I would work with BC Transit and regional partners to review service gaps, particularly evening and weekend service, connections and accessibility. Listening to riders and people who cannot currently use the service would help us identify the most useful improvements and pursue funding for them.

We can support safety with transit that operates later.

7) How would you describe yourself to voters?

I am a mother of three, a wife, an Indigenous business owner and a longtime Terrace resident who loves this community. Through Raven Prints and my volunteer work, I have learned to listen, build relationships and work through challenges. I have invested my time by volunteering the last few years because I care about our community.

I bring compassion, practical experience and a willingness to learn. I believe in transparency, inclusion and accountability. I want residents to feel heard and to know that I will ask questions, explain my decisions and work hard on their behalf.

Yvonne Nielson:

1) In your conversations around town, what would you say is the most important issue to voters in Terrace this election, and how would you tackle that issue?

Seniors Housing/RETIREMENT LIVING with accessibility issues dealt with in all areas of the city. Listen to live experience of residents and ACT ON THEM.

2) The idea of bringing an AI data centre to Terrace has become very polarizing lately. Where do you stand on that?

NO DATA CENTRE

I would need to look into this.

4) What can be done to improve the availability and affordability of rental housing in the City? How can we make renting more attractive to property owners?

Make sure the conditions are livable and people aren’t so greedy.

5) How can the City better involve local First Nations in the City’s decision-making processes?

I would need to look into this

6) Do you think the current public transportation options are adequate?

NO. Need a second HandyDart Bus running at the same time as the first HandyDart Bus with drivers. Hours of the HandyDart Bus needs to be extended. Act on to what local riders say, not totally on B C TRANSIT says they don’t live here and don’t know the real issues. A bench must be put back at the bus stop at Kalum and Lazelle.

7) How would you describe yourself to voters?

I was born and raised in Terrace. I listened to Terrace city council meetings since I was a teenager in the late 1970’s. I have attended many times over the last 39 years as a delegate to city council meetings. I have been a Volunteer on City committees of Measuring up the North, Seniors, Accessibility. I am a Volunteer Advocate in the Community for accessibility, disabilities, injury prevention, Acquired Traumatic Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury,. I have made a number of suggestions, which changes were made, they may be small, however it benefits all and makes a big difference.

I participated in Lakelse Lake Picnic Site research on Accessibility Upgrade and research on Accessibility at Terrace Airport. Helped to push to get lift at City Hall, elevator at Public Library, lift at Terrace VIA Train Station. I received National Brain Injury Awards from Brain Injury Canada recognizing exemplary leadership, outstanding efforts in promoting, advertising, communicating to advance the cause of Brain Injury
Canada.
The list goes on.

Election Day is on Saturday, October 17th, with polls open in the Terrace Sportsplex from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm.

Reminder not to confuse that with Provincial Elections, which will be the next Saturday (October 24th), in the Skeena Mall.

Terrace Council candidates weigh in on AI, housing, industry and more

James Cordeiro:

Chris Apps:

Billy Olak:

Deb Willeman:

Jesse Olynik:

Joe Lavoie:

Josh Elgert:

Keenan Stella:

Lynne Wright:

Miller Restan:

Nikki Villeneuve:

Yvonne Nielson: