Coldstream Mayor Ruth Hoyte will run for re-election in the fall municipal election. (Image Credit: RDNO)

By Liam Verster

Election 2026

Mayor of Coldstream looking to serve second term

Sep 4, 2026 | 3:14 PM

The Mayor of Coldstream will have her name back on the ballot.

Ruth Hoyte announced she would run to retain her seat in the fall municipal election.

Hoyte was elected as mayor in 2022, following one term serving as a Coldstream Councillor, but said her community-first service of record also stretches outside the council chambers in roles with other local agencies, including serving as President of the B.C. Elks Association, working with the B.C. Children’s Camp Society, and volunteering with the local Vernon Elks Lodge.

In a release, Hoyte said she leads in a way that makes her accessible and open to the public.

“[I have] a less formal approach to public engagement, including the idea of a relaxed ‘Coffee with the Mayor’ conversations where residents can share concerns, ideas and feedback,” Hoyte stated.

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“This reflects a belief that community leadership begins with listening and that residents should feel comfortable raising issues before they become larger problems.”

Additionally, Hoyte has put a focus on building strong relationships that have led to investments and projects involving housing affordability, growth, parks, trails and recreation.

Looking ahead, Hoyte said she wants to continue the critical work to serve the community at large.

“Water supply and management has come to be an urgent matter during the current drought,” Hoyte stated.

“The history of Coldstream is rooted in agriculture and continues to remain an important component of our community. Support for our farmers and food supply is of utmost importance.”

She also reflected that balancing the needs of residents, services and infrastructure with taxation has been a challenge, but one she wants to continue to face.

“My overall record reflects on cautious fiscal management while continuing to plan for growth and asset replacement,” Hoyte stated.

“My mayoral record can be characterized as steady, collaborative and focused on municipal fundamentals.”

Hoyte also stated she valued Coldstream’s rural character, parks, trails and environmental assets, and she wanted to be involved in the thoughtful and careful planning required to maintain those.

Ballots will be cast for the local general election Oct. 17.

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by Liam Verster

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