Conservative MLA-elect for Kamloops-North Thompson, Ward Stamer, gave his resignation, bidding farewell to his years of service as a councillor and as mayor from 2018 to present, during the District of Barriere (DOB) regular council meeting on Monday, Oct. 21.
“It is with mixed emotion that I inform council, and the residents of Barriere, that as of today’s date, I am officially tendering my resignation from council as mayor of the District of Barriere following my successful election in the provincial MLA candidacy for the Kamloops-North Thompson on Oct. 20, 2024,” stated Stamer in a letter to council.
Stamer had been on a formal leave from the district since Sept. 3 to pursue his candidacy for MLA.
During that time, district councillor Rob Kerslake stepped in as acting mayor while the provincial campaign was underway.
“This all-started way back in 1996 when I wanted to give back to not only my community but be involved in the process and to make a difference," Stamer told ronaldomanosa Monday evening. "From the Improvement District and fire department to incorporation, being able to be elected on Barrriere’s first council and subsequently all the way through, then being elected mayor in 2018 and acclaimed in 2022. Through it all it’s been a wonderful experience. I’m extremely proud of Barriere, its current council, its staff and of course the residents who call Barriere home.”
Stamer is off to Victoria on Tuesday for his orientation in the new role as MLA as a first-time member of the B.C. legislature and says he is “excited to embark on this new journey in representing the residents of Barriere and everyone living in the beautiful North Thompson Valley.”
“Now I get the opportunity to take the next step and support everyone here in our provincial government. I want to thank so many for having faith in me. I’ll continue to do my best and work extremely hard for Barriere and the entire Kamloops-North Thompson riding.”
Stamer has already hired Jasmine Devick, the former stakeholder engagement specialist for Trans Mountain Pipeline, as his executive assistant. She has roots in the North Thompson Valley and because of her experience he feels she will be “a valuable asset to the team moving forward”.
