An unexpected number of people turned out for the Ladysmith mayoral candidates forum on Feb. 11 at the Eagles Hall, making for an informative, engaging and, at times, entertaining evening.
Organized by the Ladysmith Residents Association, the event filled the hall to capacity with more than 100 attendees. The lounge downstairs was quickly filled as well, and organizers set up a live feed to accommodate overflow. Still, they had to turn away many disappointed residents.
Moderator John Craig opened the forum by giving each candidate two minutes to introduce themselves.
Russ Barling said he is running to bring fresh leadership and restore civility to local politics. He believes Ladysmith has untapped potential and promises to advocate for homeowners, ensure transparency and keep commitments where past councils have failed.
Deena Beeston emphasized responsible growth that prioritizes residents’ needs without increasing the tax burden. She supports financial responsibility, innovative service solutions and ensuring development benefits the town.
Raymon Travis Farmere focused on increasing community engagement, improving infrastructure and promoting environmental sustainability.
Joe Friesenhan highlighted his municipal experience, stressing the need for transparency, infrastructure maintenance and consolidating town services to improve efficiency.
Terje Hanssen expressed concern that Ladysmith is losing its sense of community. He believes the town needs fresh perspectives and should challenge the status quo.
Transparency and public engagement
Craig’s first question asked candidates how they would improve transparency and public engagement.
Barling criticized excessive in-camera meetings, arguing that unelected officials control too much of the process.
“The folks we elect should have the courage to make those decisions so they are accountable to us when they do,” he said.
Beeston proposed reintroducing open-door mayoral sessions and promised to be a respectful, open mayor who listens to what people have to say.
Farmere advocated for monthly town halls and stronger business engagement, while Friesenhan emphasized that only staffing, legal and land issues should be handled in-camera.
Hanssen pledged to hold weekly informal coffee meetings where residents could share ideas and collaborate.
Economic development and growth
Candidates then addressed their approach to economic development and managing growth.
Beeston stressed responsible development, ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with expansion.
“I want to see growth happen in a way that connects our community, enhances our lives and is planned,” she said.
Farmere proposed redefining home businesses to encourage entrepreneurship and suggested a first-year tax break for startups.
Friesenhan supported densification as a way to expand the tax base without increasing infrastructure costs.
“If you build more density, you’ve got the same roads to maintain, but your tax base goes up,” he said.
Hanssen was skeptical about rapid development, saying services are already lacking and warning that Ladysmith should slow the pace of growth.
Barling pushed for attracting business clusters rather than big chains, arguing that homeowners should not bear the full financial burden of development.
“We simply cannot continue to expect homeowners to shoulder the full burden of our growth ambitions and escalating costs,” Barling said.
Ladysmith Maritime Society
Candidates were asked whether they would support the Ladysmith Maritime Society (LMS) remaining in the car shop — a space where volunteers restore and maintain heritage vessels — returning to the blue heritage building after renovations, and securing a new space for recreational boating.
All candidates responded “yes.”
Barling criticized the town’s handling of LMS, arguing that its contract should have been allowed to run until 2029 and pledging to reopen discussions. Other candidates focused on the organization’s contributions, with Beeston and Friesenhan highlighting LMS’s role in Ladysmith’s heritage and the importance of supporting its volunteers.
Civility in public discourse
When asked if they would commit to civility in public discourse, all candidates agreed on the need for respect in municipal politics.
Barling called for public condemnation of personal attacks, while Beeston promised to set a positive tone on council.
“I may not be the tallest in the room, but I will not stand for a member of my community being disrespected,” she said.
Friesenhan also proposed reinstating an open-door policy for the mayor.
Collaboration with Stz’uminus First Nation
Candidates were asked how they would work with Stz’uminus First Nation as their economic and waterfront involvement grows.
Beeston criticized how the waterfront land transfer was handled, saying it should have been a shared community effort.
Friesenhan supported continuing collaboration but called for greater transparency.
“One of the issues is that it’s done behind closed doors,” he said. “We don’t hear about it until after decisions are made.”
Farmere emphasized the importance of fostering meaningful partnerships with Stz’uminus, ensuring both communities benefit from future projects.
Hanssen called for direct engagement and stronger First Nations representation in municipal affairs.
“First Nations should be included in council,” he said.
In their closing remarks, candidates thanked the audience and encouraged voter participation.
Beeston emphasized open communication and listening to the community.
Farmere encouraged collaboration to improve Ladysmith.
Friesenhan stressed transparency and making informed decisions.
Hanssen urged residents to participate in the election and show respect for the electoral process.
Barling echoed the need for higher voter turnout and questioned whether Ladysmith’s taxation relationship with the regional district was benefiting residents.
The forum showcased the candidates' distinct approaches to governance, economic development and civic engagement. With election day approaching, candidates urged residents to take part in shaping Ladysmith’s future.
