Five people are running for a vacant seat on city council in Port Alberni.
Shinahkoh Couture, Brennan Wauters, Tom Verbrugge, Debra Hamilton and Richard Huneault are all vying for the spot left vacant following Coun. John Douglas's death in July. Scott Lemkay was initially declared as a candidate for the by-election, but chose to withdraw from the race.
General voting day is on Saturday, Dec. 14 and will take place at the Echo Centre (4255 Wallace Street) between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
Advance voting will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 4 and Wednesday, Dec. 11, also at the Echo Centre between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
The Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce has scheduled an all-candidates' meeting for Wednesday, Dec. 4 at RimRock Casino (4890 Cherry Creek Rd. in the Cathedral Grove Room). Doors open at 6 p.m. and the meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. Questions will only be taken via email to info@albernichamber.ca. Deadline to submit questions is noon on Tuesday, Dec. 3.
We asked each of the candidates to introduce themselves to the community of Port Alberni. Here are their responses:
Shinahkoh Couture
My name is Shinahkoh Couture. I am an Islander, born and raised. Having lived in many cities and towns on the Island, I moved to Port Alberni seven years ago with my wife.
If you happen to know me already, it is likely from my role as lead brewer at Twin City Brewing Company — however I've been connected to the Alberni Valley for well over 20 years. Not only through my wife and her family, who have lived here since 1882, but also though my father, a lifelong forester, and my uncle, a boilermaker at a few of the mills.
I have long been aware of the historic ups and downs of Port Alberni and hope I am able to contribute to the community and its current, successful growth. While I have had many conversations about the kind of programs, projects and initiatives Port Alberni would be suited for, I am exceptionally aware that in this by-election time is of the essence.
To that end I would say my platform is one of continuation, progress and completion. I believe that in order to properly judge and vote on what is best for the city, we have to finish existing projects. Seeing through to the end that which has already begun is the only way I see for fiscally responsible government to demonstrate their success. Or their failure.
I would say my campaign slogan accurately sums up my ideology: "Leave it better than you found it." A simple rule for campsites, as well as communities.
Thank you for your time. Please go and vote.
Brennan Wauters
Brennan is an experienced electrical contractor specializing in environmental and energy-focused services across British Columbia. With a strong background in energy efficiency and sustainable practices, Brennan seeks to bring this expertise to the municipal decision-making process in Port Alberni, aiming to contribute to the community’s long-term sustainability and economic health.
Brennan advocates decision-making through the lens of energy conservation, recognizing the growing need for sustainable practices amid climate challenges. By focusing on reducing environmental impact, Brennan hopes to guide Port Alberni toward more energy-efficient policies. At the same time, given the fiscal constraints currently tied to the B.C. Premier’s office, Brennan emphasizes the importance of balancing sustainability with fiscal responsibility. Effective governance, in this context, requires making the most of limited resources while prioritizing the community's long-term needs.
Central to Brennan’s vision is active community engagement. By involving Port Alberni residents in local decision-making, Brennan aims to ensure that policies reflect the diverse voices of the community. This democratic approach ensures that governance is responsive and accountable to the people it serves, helping to create policies that meet the community's needs.
Brennan is also committed to reconciliation and social justice. By adhering to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and the 94 Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, Brennan aims to ensure that municipal governance is inclusive and respectful of Indigenous communities. This commitment to equity will help foster stronger relationships and promote economic cohesion in the region.
Brennan’s goal is to create lasting value for Port Alberni by prioritizing energy conservation, fiscal responsibility and community involvement, while fostering reconciliation and inclusion for all residents.
Tom Verbrugge
As a proud, lifelong resident of Port Alberni, I am deeply committed to this Valley where I have raised my family.
With most of my career dedicated to the logging industry, I have consistently adapted to challenges. When logging faced a downturn in the early 1990s, my wife and I seized the opportunity to open a successful bed and breakfast. Following another decline in logging, I launched a Christmas tree farm on the northwest end of the local airport, which I continue to operate with great success.
Over the past three years I’ve also worked alongside my son and his girlfriend in the seafood processing industry, further enhancing our local economy.
My extensive experience in racing—both on pavement and dirt tracks—has equipped me with invaluable skills in teamwork and leadership. As an active member of the IORRA at Alberni Motorsports Park/ Woodward’s Pit, I race five weekends a year, volunteer for track maintenance and play a vital role in shaping our rules and policies for the benefit of all members.
I am dedicated to listening, learning and finding effective solutions that consider everyone’s viewpoints. Engaging with our community is my priority because I believe diverse opinions lead to informed and inclusive decisions for the Alberni Valley.
I invite members of the public to join me at my tree farm this December during our opening hours for a cup of hot chocolate. I look forward to hearing people’s thoughts and working together to create a brighter future for our community.
Debra Hamilton
Port Alberni is a city with a rich history and a bright future. As we move forward, we must respect the legacies of past councils and hear the voices of those who have shaped this Valley. Knowing where we’ve come from is essential to building a community that meets the needs of those who live here today and welcomes those who will call it home tomorrow.
I’m running for city council to strike that balance — honouring our past while driving progress for the future. My leadership style is frank, direct, and rooted in action. I don’t mince words when it comes to advocating for our community, and I believe in doing so with a collaborative spirit and a great sense of humour to keep things grounded. Laughter, after all, is often the best bridge to understanding and connection.
One of my proudest achievements was leading the work to bring 26 community partners together to secure Port Alberni’s Foundry. The state-of-the-art youth health centre will be the cornerstone of support for young people in our community. My superpower is bringing people together to take action.
My teens and early 20s saw me managing fast-food restaurants, running a 40-space daycare and overseeing a world-renowned tattoo shop — experiences that sharpened my problem-solving, teamwork and people skills. Add to that years of serving and chairing boards and committees like Alberni Low Energy Housing and the Port Alberni Situation Table, and I’ve developed a clear understanding of municipal governance and how to prioritize the needs of our residents while keeping the city running smoothly.
With a knack for direct communication and experience working with all levels of government, I’m ready to bring people together to build a Port Alberni that honours its past, thrives today and embraces the possibilities of tomorrow.
Richard Huneault
Hello, my name is Richard Huneault (pronounced "UNO"). Serving my community is both an honour and a civic duty, and I’m committed to improving the quality of life for all residents through accountable, transparent and inclusive governance.
My platform focuses on key priorities for Port Alberni, including advocating for affordable housing, supporting small businesses and streamlining bureaucracy to foster growth. I aim to attract new families and retain our youth by creating opportunities that make Port Alberni a desirable place to live, work, and thrive.
Transparency and public input are essential for good governance. I oppose the $10 fee for Freedom of Information requests and will work to remove barriers and reinforce trust by encouraging community engagement in decision-making.
As someone passionate about food security and resilient infrastructure, I support sustainable practices, reducing waste and preparing Port Alberni for natural disasters with stronger systems and resources.
I believe in collaborating with the Hupacasath and Tseshaht First Nations to uplift their traditions and rights to economic, social, environmental and cultural sovereignty.
I’m not affiliated with any political party. My focus is solely on the people of Port Alberni. Together, we can build a community where residents feel safe and proud and can flourish economically.
I invite you to share your questions, ideas or concerns. I’m here to listen and work with you to shape a better future.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I hope to earn your trust and serve as a dedicated member of Port Alberni City Council.
