Russ Oakley is the new chair of the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD).
The representative from Electoral Area A defeated Electoral Area D representative John Turner last week. Turner, who resides in Furry Creek, had held the position for the past two years and was seeking an additional term.
Oakley represents the extreme northern part of the SLRD, specifically Gold Bridge, Bralorne and the surrounding area. Known for his candid views and common sense approach to issues, this will be the Gold Bridge resident’s first term as chair.
Elected at the SLRD’s last meeting of the year on Dec. 19, Oakley’s nomination speech consisted of a shopping list of his achievements as a director, focusing on issues germane to the more rural, and isolated rural, communities within the SLRD.
Turner declined director Mickey Macri’s nomination for the position of vice-chair. Squamish Councilor Raj Khalon and Pemberton Mayor Jordan Sturdy competed for that position, with Sturdy being elected vice-chair.
The next meeting of the SLRD is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 22, in Pemberton.
