Kermit Dahl is setting his sights on a second term as Campbell River’s mayor.
Dahl, who was elected mayor in 2022 after serving on city council, raised his children in the community and owns a local business.
Dahl said it was difficult to choose from all of the city’s accomplishments over the past four years but considers the establishment of HEARTH/Homewood Village the top achievement.
“Every time I go by there, I go away feeling really grateful that we were able to have a positive influence on the lives of 48 residents,” said Dahl. “Originally it was 40, but we added eight more units in December of 2025.”
He was also pleased with improvements to workplace culture at city hall, investments in infrastructure, partnerships with other municipalities and First Nations, improvements in the housing vacancy rate and reductions in rental costs.
Dahl said the main challenge faced by the city during the past term was responding to decisions made by other levels of government.
“It’s had a significant negative impact on Campbell River,” said Dahl. “Some examples would be the cancellation of funding for our long-term care beds and the decriminalization of controlled substances without any backstops behind it. And the regulatory changes affecting forestry. And we’re waiting for the federal government to make a decision on aquaculture.”
Dahl said he’s proud of how council has responded to those challenges.
If elected, Dahl hopes to continue some of the long-term planning city council began during his first term, while focusing on adding more housing options, continuing advocacy for long-term care beds and creating a more vibrant downtown.
He said his love for the community has inspired him to seek re-election.
Dahl is running against Andy Speck in Campbell River’s mayoral race.
The municipal election is Oct. 17. Keep visiting My Campbell River Now for information on other local candidates.
