New mayor for Lake Country

It’s been 17 years since Lake Country has had a new mayor, but the new person didn’t even have to run in an election.

Blair Ireland, who has been a councillor for two terms, was acclaimed for the job after Barry Rhodes withdrew from the race.

James Baker is retiring after serving as mayor since 2005.

According to his bio on the District of Lake Country website, Ireland moved to the Okanagan in 1970. He and his wife bought their first home in Okanagan Centre in 1987 and they still reside in that area of Lake Country.

Ireland worked for Big White for 28 years as director of guest services.