Inaugural Council Meeting - November 2, 2026

City Hall front exterior

Inaugural Ceremonies

Opening Prayer from Tḱemlúps te Secwépemc

Tḱemlúps te Secwépemc Elder and Knowledge Keeper Hank Gott provided a welcoming address to the incoming Council, encouraging open hearts and open minds as the City moves forward.

Oaths of Office

The Honourable Judge Christopher Balison received the Declaration of Oath of Office from each member of Council.

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Left to right, back row: Councillor Ritcey, Councillor Sunderman, Mayor O'Reilly, Councillor Mitra, Councillor Bertrand; front row: Councillor Neustaeter, Councillor Bucher, Councillor Middleton, and Councillor Hall

 

Mayor's Inaugural Address

Mayor O'Reilly gave an inaugural address beginning with words of thanks to the distinguished guests in attendance, Kamloops residents, and the families of all those who ran in this year's election. Mayor O'Reilly acknowledged outgoing Council members Mayor Hamer-Jackson and Councillors Bepple, Sarai, Karpuk, and Bass.

Mayor O'Reilly addressed how he hopes Council will listen, collaborate, engage in healthy debate, disagree respectfully, and make the best decisions for all people in Kamloops. Looking ahead, Mayor O'Reilly wants Council to be ambitious about the future, responsible with the City's resources, and united in its commitment to making Kamloops a better place.

Designation of Deputy Mayors

Council authorized the following Deputy Mayor appointments:

  • Councillor Middleton, November 2026–February 2027
  • Councillor Neustaeter, March–June 2027
  • Councillor Hall, July–October 2027