Race for Smithers mayor begins as councillor declares candidacy

Race for Smithers mayor begins as councillor declares candidacy

The 2026 local government election is still several months away, but one person has already thrown his name into the race for Smithers mayor. Current councillor John Buikema, who has been in council for eight years and is also currently chairing the Finance Committee, has decided to let his name stand for the top job. With Mayor Gladys Atrill not running again, the door is wide open for someone new. Buikema said he thinks it is important for som…