West Kelowna council sworn in for 2026-2030 term

West Kelowna’s newly elected council has officially taken office, following an inaugural ceremony Tuesday marking the start of the city’s 2026-2030 term.

Mayor Stephen Johnston and six councillors were sworn in during the Nov. 3 ceremony, attended by family members, friends, West Kelowna RCMP representatives and members of West Kelowna Fire Rescue.

The oath of office was administered to Johnston and councillors Tom Groat, Garrett Millsap, Rick de Jong, Tasha Da Silva, Justin Chapman and Chris Moyer. The ceremony was followed by an inaugural address from the mayor.

Council also made its appointments to the Regional District of Central Okanagan board. Johnston and Groat were named municipal directors for a four-year term, with Johnston assigned four weighted votes and Groat three.

Millsap was appointed first alternate, while de Jong will serve as second alternate.

The city also released its compiled results from the Oct. 17 general local election. The report, detailing ballot accounts for each candidate, is available through the city’s website.

Council approved its signing authorities for the new term. Those authorized include all members of council, along with the chief administrative officer, chief financial officer, general manager of corporate services and director of legislative and legal services.