Get the Top, Local stories delivered to your inbox! Click here to join the daily Vernon Matters newsletter.
Diana Wilson will run for a seat on Vernon City Council in the upcoming municipal election (Image Credit: Submitted photo)
Election 2026

Community and business leader seeks Vernon City Council seat

Jul 27, 2026 | 3:08 PM

A community leader and senior project manager is looking to earn a seat on Vernon City Council.

Diana Wilson, a fourth generation Vernon resident, announced she would seek a seat in the council chambers in the fall municipal election.

“I love Vernon, and I believe our community has tremendous opportunities ahead. At the same time, we face important challenges—from ensuring a sustainable water supply and supporting local agriculture to housing affordability, economic development, and maintaining the quality of life that makes Vernon such a wonderful place to live,” Wilson stated in a release.

“I don’t pretend to have all the answers, but I do know how to evaluate complex issues, weigh different perspectives, and make thoughtful decisions that will serve the best interests of our community.”

The council candidate touted the work already being done by the municipality, regional partners, community organizations and others to address opportunities and challenges.

She also recognized the role the Official Community Plan has in the city’s future, which was developed in consultation with the public.

“Our community has established a strong vision for the future, and there will continue to be important decisions about how we bring that vision to life,” Wilson said.

“Residents bring valuable knowledge, experience, and perspectives to those conversations, and I believe it’s important that people continue to have meaningful opportunities to contribute as we move forward together.”

Wilson’s campaign will focus on working to implement the community plan while also ensuring residents continue to have their say in shaping Vernon.

“I believe the best decisions are made when we create meaningful opportunities for people to participate, consider reliable information, and are transparent about how decisions are reached,” she said.

“During this campaign, I want to hear from as many residents as possible. Whether through community conversations, coffee meetings, social media, email, or my website, I hope people will share their ideas, perspectives, and priorities as we continue moving Vernon forward together.”

Wilson said she would bring three decades of leadership experience to the role through her past work leading complex projects and organizational changes across government, healthcare, retail, logistics and post-secondary education work.

Wilson also worked in a number of community groups including Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce, North Okanagan Cycling Society and Vernon Paddling Centre, all of which she served in leadership roles.

Through her volunteer and professional roles, the candidate said she built a reputation of bringing people together, solving complex problems, and turning ideas into practical results.

“I’ve always believed in giving back to the community that has given me so much,” Wilson stated.

“After many conversations with family, friends, and community leaders, I’ve decided this is the right time to step forward and serve.”

The 2026 Local General Election will go October 17.

View Comments