Thoughtful Leadership. Sound Counsel. A Vision for Kamloops' Future
- Margot Middleton

- 4 hours ago
- 4 min read
Four years ago, I first put my name forward for Kamloops City Council because I believed our community deserved thoughtful, practical leadership focused on building a strong future for residents, businesses, and families. Today, after serving as an elected City Councillor, I remain as passionate as ever about helping Kamloops continue to grow and thrive.
Serving on Council has provided me with the opportunity to work alongside residents, community organizations, businesses, City staff, regional partners, and fellow elected officials on issues that matter to Kamloopsians. It has also reinforced an important lesson: strong communities are built through collaboration, respectful dialogue, sound decision-making, and a willingness to plan not only for today's needs but for future generations as well.
As I seek re-election, I want to share the values that continue to guide my work and the priorities I believe are important for Kamloops' future.
Responsible Growth and Strong Governance

Kamloops continues to experience growth, creating both opportunities and challenges. Growth must be managed responsibly, with decisions grounded in evidence, transparency, and long-term planning.
During my first term, I supported initiatives that help our community prepare for the future, including housing discussions, regional planning efforts, and investments that support sustainable growth. As our city evolves, it is important that Council remains focused on strengthening governance, maintaining public trust, and ensuring decisions are made with the best interests of the community in mind.
I believe residents deserve leadership that listens, asks thoughtful questions, and carefully considers the long-term impacts of every decision.
Investing in Community and Recreation Infrastructure
One of the highlights of my first term has been supporting significant recreation and community infrastructure investments through the Build Kamloops program.
For many years, I have believed that recreation facilities, sports programs, cultural opportunities, and community spaces are essential to quality of life. These investments support physical and mental well-being, strengthen community connections, and help make Kamloops an attractive place to live and raise a family.
As our population grows, we must continue planning for infrastructure that meets the needs of residents today while preparing for future generations. Whether it is recreation facilities, transportation infrastructure, parks, or community amenities, thoughtful investments today help build a stronger Kamloops tomorrow.
Preserving Kamloops' Livability
One of the reasons so many people choose to call Kamloops home is our exceptional quality of life.
However, residents continue to face pressures related to affordability, housing, community safety, and access to services. These challenges require practical solutions and collaboration among all levels of government.

Throughout my time on Council, I have worked to support initiatives that improve livability while advocating for responsible financial management. As a business owner, I understand the importance of balancing priorities, making informed decisions, and ensuring taxpayers receive value from their investments.
I remain committed to helping ensure Kamloops remains a vibrant, welcoming, and livable community for families, seniors, businesses, and future generations.
Regional Leadership and Advocacy
Many of the issues affecting Kamloops extend beyond our municipal boundaries.
My roles as a Director on both the Thompson-Nicola Regional District Board and the Thompson Regional Hospital District Board have provided opportunities to advocate for Kamloops while working collaboratively with neighbouring communities and regional partners.
Strong regional relationships are critical when addressing issues such as healthcare, transportation, emergency preparedness, economic development, and long-term infrastructure planning. Kamloops needs experienced representation at these tables to ensure our community's voice is heard and respected.

Community Safety and Quality of Life
Residents deserve to feel safe in their neighbourhoods, parks, public spaces, and business districts.
Community safety is a complex issue that requires cooperation among local government, first responders, social service agencies, healthcare providers, outreach organizations, and residents themselves.
I have supported ongoing discussions and initiatives focused on improving community safety and addressing quality-of-life concerns. While there are no simple solutions, I believe thoughtful leadership, respectful dialogue, and evidence-based decision-making can help move our community forward.
The Power of Participation
One value that has remained constant throughout my life is the importance of participation.
Strong communities are built by people who choose to get involved — whether by volunteering, coaching youth sports, serving on community committees, supporting local organizations, or simply helping their neighbours.
Kamloops benefits from countless individuals who contribute their time, expertise, and energy to making our city a better place. Their efforts often happen behind the scenes, but they are essential to our community's success.
I encourage residents to continue participating in civic life, sharing their perspectives, and helping shape the future of our city.
Looking Ahead
As I seek a second term on City Council, my vision remains clear.
I want Kamloops to continue growing responsibly, investing in the services and infrastructure residents need, and maintaining its reputation as one of the best places in Canada to live, work, raise a family, and build a future.

The decisions we make today will shape the city our children and grandchildren inherit tomorrow. That responsibility deserves thoughtful leadership, sound counsel, and a commitment to putting Kamloops first.
Those principles have guided my work over the past four years, and they will continue to guide me in the years ahead.

That's what I will continue to provide.



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