The following candidates filed nomination papers to run for the offices of Mayor, Council, or School Trustee. These are shared below by office in alphabetical order, with the candidate’s submitted photo and bio.
The nomination period ended at 4 p.m. on September 11, 2026.
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Candidates for Mayor
Lance Bright
604-388-4545 | LANCE@LANCEBRIGHT.COM | LANCE BRIGHT
Lance Bright’s nomination package (PDF)
Jack Crompton
It has been the honour of my life to serve as Mayor. I have worked hard to make the RMOW an organization that capably navigates big challenges and creatively seizes new opportunities.
I am eager to offer vision, experience, and innovation to Whistler. Vision to imagine what our community can become. Experience to make sound decisions in uncertain times. And the innovation to find new solutions to the challenges facing us.
One of the things that makes this town unique is our capacity to think big. I get a lot of joy hearing big ideas for Whistler from Whistlerites. I will continue to get into community, listen, and focus on solutions to strengthen our community for workers, families, and businesses.
I am proud of what we have accomplished together, and I would be honoured to earn your support for another term as Mayor. There is so much more to do.
604-388-9588 | jack@ridebooker.com | Instagram: @cromptonwhistler | X: @jacksoncrompton | Facebook: facebook.com/crompton
Jack Crompton’s nomination package (PDF)
Brandon Smith
I am not a career politician. I have never served public office.
What I do bring is a vast wealth of knowledge that spans across all sectors of industry, business and resort living.
I am an entrepreneur and a small business advocate who is ready to be the voice for all residents and champion the cause for small business.
I understand the issues that affect our community from the ground up – rooted in lived experience, rather than educational theory.
Fiscal responsibility is priority and I believe we can implement straightforward, feasible measures to end the ongoing cycle of unnecessary property tax increases.
I will address transportation issues and provide obtainable solutions today, rather than decades down the road.
I am proposing an aggressive and diversified wildfire protection strategy alongside improved waste management and real action to reduce our environmental impacts.
For the Love of Whistler: Vote Brandon for Mayor.
604-551-5971 | contact@Brandonforwhistler.com | BrandonForWhistler.com
Brandon Smith’s nomination package (PDF)
Marco Zunino
Whistler has always been a place of dreamers and visionaries. It’s time to dream big again and renew the
vision of what our town can be – a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable community for decades to come.
My vision for Whistler is about putting community first through:
- Rent that is fair and affordable for small business owners and tenants,
- Decision-making that reflects a community for all, and
- A sustainable strategy that puts locals first.
My candidacy for mayor is built upon a career that has included government, non-profit organisations, and business. As such, I understand how the public sector operates and the relationship between government bureaucracy and accountable decision-making. I am passionate about getting involved, especially in local government, as it’s the level of government that’s closest to the people that it affects. Change locally has the most meaningful impact. Find out more at marco4mayor.ca
604-388-4651 | MARCO.ZED@OUTLOOK.COM | marco4mayor.ca | Instagram: @emmzed_ | Facebook: facebook.com/marco.zed.999/
Marco Zunino’s nomination package (PDF)
Candidates for Councillor
Nicole Baudisch
Since arriving in 2002, I have lived, worked, volunteered, and raised my family in this community. My career has spanned housing, safety, tourism, and community service, giving me firsthand experience with the opportunities and challenges facing Whistler today.
Over the past two decades, I have worked to support residents, strengthen our community, and help address housing challenges. I understand the importance of balancing growth with the needs of the people who call Whistler home.
As a Councillor, I will listen, collaborate, and bring a thoughtful, practical approach to decision-making. I am committed to supporting housing solutions, responsible development, climate resilience, community safety, and a strong local economy while protecting the character and values that make Whistler so special.
I am ready to give back to the community that has given so much to me and help build a vibrant future for generations to come.
nbaudisch@outlook.com | vote-nicole.ca
Nicole Baudisch’s nomination package (PDF)
Raul Bautista
I’m Raul Bautista, 42 y.o., father of two and resident of Whistler since 2011.
I’m also a hospitality worker, one of those that has been ripped off with housing at times in this town, and a former tenant and board member of the WHA.
I feel passionate and I find true joy helping others to solve their problems or improve their lives. And I think the local council would be a great place to do so.
Life affordability of the working people, opportunities, community well being and of course housing are my main concerns.
Reach out if you want to talk.
604-907-5412 | SPANJOR@GMAIL.COM
Raul Bautista’s nomination package (PDF)
John Blok
It is a privilege to run for the position of councillor to represent Whistler. I am ready to invest my time, talents and insights to aid in helping Whistler to be sustainable, livable and vibrant. I have no personal agenda except for a love and concern for the future of Whistler.
Grace and I have lived in Whistler for 26 years. I have been on the board of WORCA, including 2 years as president, worked for Pique Newsmagazine and for the past 20 years, I have worked as a Personal Fitness Trainer for Whistler Core. I feel like an uncle to many of the temporary employees and enjoy greeting them each morning.
Future concerns are finding solutions for vehicle dwellers, tax increases, housing and keeping the environment happy.
We also own a one bedroom condo which is rented at below market value in our effort to make Whistler sustainable.
604-698-8340 | bloks@telus.net
John Blok’s nomination package (PDF)
Robin Brown
Community comes first, we need to get the community back on its feet. We need sustainability that encompasses economic, social and environmental actions for the community. Whistler’s success depends on a strong community.
The past levels of property tax increases to cover municipal spending are not sustainable. Municipal spending has to be brought down to or below the inflation rate to make it affordable to residents.
Housing is an important part of this community and we have capable people getting projects built. We need to simplify our municipal processes to make the job of building housing more efficient and reduce costs.
The last development in Whistler is the Northlands Project. The overwhelming response from the community on the Amenity Contribution is a replacement all weather racquet facility. This new facility needs to be built and delivered by the developer before the old facility is removed.
604-209-8201 | robin@robinbrown.ca
Robin Brown’s nomination package (PDF)
Michael Burnett
Community-centered governance: Decisions made by the community, for the community. We should stop wasting money studying impractical projects like a valley gondola and put residents first.
Approachable, transparent leadership: I will listen carefully, take you seriously, and follow through on commitments.
Meaningful engagement: Social media conversations with residents, town-hall style meetings, and neighborhood associations.
Community development: Solutions to affordability challenges developed with community members.
Advocacy: Championing housing, non-profits, workers, the environment, wildlife protection, small businesses, and regional transit..
Evidence-based decision-making: Voting in council based on research, diverse perspectives, and Whistler’s long-term well-being.
Clear communication: Demystifying council and administration so residents understand decisions and participate fully in Whistler’s political direction.
A shared vision: A Whistler where every voice is heard, everyone is treated with respect, and council reflects the people’s values.
Fiscal prudence: Responsible spending and reducing tax pressure on homeowners—not tax exemptions for private clubs like Tyrol lodge.
BURNETTFORWHISTLERCOUNCIL@PROTON.ME | Instagram: @BURNETTFORWHISTLERCOUNCIL | Facebook: VOTE BURNETT FOR WHISTLER COUNCIL
Michael Burnett’s nomination package (PDF)
Arthur De Jong
CANDIDATE PRIORITIES
1 Leadership
Continue to bring experience, stability, vision, and empathy to my work for the community.
2 Climate Safety
Whistler will experience a catastrophic fire.
Accelerate fire smarting and fire fuel reduction.
3 Climate Economics
Accelerate future proofing to stabilize the declining winter business model, including a multipurpose recreation facility which includes racquet sports.
4 Climate Responsibility
Drive Whistler’s Big Moves GHG reduction initiatives forward.
5 Growth
The community decides on limits to growth, not the province, including Cheakamus Crossing.
6 Affordability
Work with RMOW staff to find savings, efficiencies, and redundancies.
7 Housing
Foundational to everything.
8 Seniors Quality of Life
A community’s heart is measured by how it cares for its seniors. Housing, health and a senior’s hub are critical.
9 Emergency Services Support
Always support Whistler’s emergency services personnel who keep our community safe.
10 Education
Get the new Waldorf School to the finish line.
Arthur De Jong’s nomination package (PDF)
Jen Ford
Jen Ford is a longtime Whistler resident, and community advocate with more than a decade of experience serving on Whistler Council.
Since 2014, Jen has worked to help Whistler remain a vibrant, resilient and livable community. She has served as Chair of the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District and the Municipal Finance Authority of BC. She also served as President of the Union of BC Municipalities, advocating for communities across British Columbia.
Jen brings a practical, collaborative approach to local government, with experience in housing, emergency management, wildfire resilience, regional governance, tourism and economic development.
604-935-9560 | jen@jenford.ca | jenford.ca
Jen Ford’s nomination package (PDF)
Ralph Forsyth
I moved to Whistler from Quebec in 1991 to teach skiing, 35 years later, I’m still here, still skiing, and still pretending I know what I’m doing. I’m not the best skier on the mountain, but I’ve got amazing style, which, in skiing and local politics, can get you surprisingly far.
I was elected to RMOW Council in 2005 and 2008, then persuaded voters to give me another try in 2018 and 2022. Having never been accused of being the smartest person in the room, I try to sit near them and paraphrase convincingly.
When not in Council meetings, my happiest place is skiing and biking with my family, where I drop enough F-bombs to make the cast of a Guy Ritchie movie blush.
As proof that I’m a Whistler local, you should know I make my own granola and own enough merino wool to fill a warehouse.
604-905-8997 | ralph@ralphforsyth.com | ralphforsyth.com | Instagram: @ralphforsyth | X: @ralphforsyth | Facebook: Ralph Forsyth
Ralph Forsyth’s nomination package (PDF)
Tina James
Tina has spent decades working in service to the community in the field of injury, rehabilitation & mental health, long time Whistler business owner.
She believes in truth & reconciliation .
She currently volunteers as one of the founding board of directors of Bearkind and is active on the ground with the Whistler Bear Collective as an ambassador for educating the community and visitors alike on co-existence through conservation.
She volunteered on the Whistler ski patrol for 10 years and is seeing the effects of climate change first hand and committed to change.
As our community continues to grow, the decisions we make today will shape the future of Whistler. Tina is a bold change maker and knows there are many calls to action to foster a community where families can thrive where outdoor adventure and deep respect for nature co-exist that is fiscally responsible, and safe.
604-902-0125 | tinaLokayoga@Gmail.com | TinaLokayoga.com | Instagram: @tina_pashumati
Tina James’ nomination package (PDF)
Cathy Jewett
I came to Whistler in 1976 for a winter and stayed for a lifetime. My kids were raised here and aren’t far away – Squamish. Most of my working life was spent as a Professional Ski Patrol.
I’ve chaired the Myrtle Philip & S2S District Parent Advisory Councils and served on the BC PAC Board, Chaired Communities That Care Whistler and was a founding member of AWARE and WORCA. In 2016 I was awarded Whistler’s Citizen of the Year.
I’ve served on Council since 2017 over the last nine years was appointed to the Boards of: WCSS, Arts Whistler, One Whistler, Whistler Museum, Whistler Public Library, WORCA, FE&A, Zero Waste, Smart Tourism and Council Committees: Governance and HR. Current Boards are Whistler Valley Housing Society (Chair) and Audain Art Museum.
I will work with a continued focus on community engagement and social needs.
I love Whistler!
604-932-8810 | cojewett@gmail.com
Cathy Jewett’s nomination package (PDF)
Jessie Morden
As a born and raised local who is growing her family in our community, Jessie is committed to finding long-term solutions to the most pressing issues for families trying to make Whistler their home; housing, transportation, and affordability.
Jessie knows what sets this town apart and she will be a tireless advocate for its spirit. She believes in asking tough questions, challenging the status quo and making decisions that put the long term health of our community first.
During her first term on council, she served on the boards of Squamish Lillooet Regional District Board of Directors, Whistler Arts Council, Whistler Animals Galore, Whistler Community Services Society, Whistler Housing Authority, Whistler Public Library Board of Trustees. In addition to these boards, she has also served on Accessibility and Inclusion Committee and Housing and Strategy Committee.
Jessie is passionate about Whistler and the people who make it what it is.
604-905-8309 | jessieforcouncil.com | Instagram: @councillor_jessie
Jessie Morden’s nomination package (PDF)
Jeff Murl
After graduating with a finance degree from UBC, Jeff’s career path moved through the investment industry to launching and operating his own restaurants. Once he obtained his chartered professional accountant (CPA) designation, Jeff opened his own accounting and consulting practice, providing financial management to local small businesses. Jeff has taught skiers of all ages and ability levels as a Ski instructor for over 25 years. Lately, he has applied his teaching experience to accounting at BCIT.
Prior to joining council, Jeff brought his financial acumen and a problem-solving approach to volunteer roles on boards throughout the Whistler community. As a councillor, Jeff leads robust, solution-oriented discussions on the following committees: Chair of Housing and Strategy, Audit and Finance, S2S Transit and Advisory Design Panel. He also serves on the boards of the Whistler Development Corp., LMLGA and the Whistler Museum. Jeff and his wife and two boys call Whistler home.
604-671-6367 | JEFFMURL@HOTMAIL.COM
Jeff Murl’s nomination package (PDF)
Ivan Otto
Six years ago, I arrived in Whistler with two suitcases and a work permit, never imagining how much this community would change my life.
Whistler became more than a place to work. It became my home and where I want to build my future.
Through my work in social services, I have met people across Whistler and seen our community’s strengths and challenges. I learned that listening, collaboration, and practical action matter.
I am running for Council to help keep working people living here, improve transportation, create more opportunities for an active community, support people who want to age in Whistler, strengthen local benefits and services, and ensure responsible spending. As our community grows, wildfire preparedness must remain part of our planning.
I don’t have every answer, but I will listen, ask questions, and work hard to find solutions together.
Ivan is here. To listen. To work for Whistler.
236-512-1525 | IVAN.OTTO@ICLOUD.COM | IVANOTTO.CA
Ivan Otto’s nomination package (PDF)
Mandy Rousseau
Whistler is an engaged community that has shaped me into the community connector, mentor and advocate that I am. I believe good leadership starts with listening, asking questions and bringing people together.
My career spans across Whistler’s non-profit, cultural, tourism and business sectors, complemented by hands-on governance and volunteer experience. As an experienced non-profit manager, I understand the importance of setting clear direction, being fiscally responsible, measuring results and remaining accountable to the people you serve.
I’m running because I believe Whistler benefits from fresh perspective, thoughtful planning and leadership willing to roll up its sleeves. I’m not an expert on everything—and I don’t pretend to be. I listen, seek out expertise, and am willing to change my mind when new information helps us make better decisions.
I care about Whistler, and I’d be honoured to put my experience and energy to work for the community I call home.
604-938-3760 | mandyforoffice@gmail.com | amsurousseau.wixsite.com/mandyforoffice |
Mandy Rousseau’s nomination package (PDF)
Claire Ruddy
Claire Ruddy is best known for leading AWARE’s transformation from a volunteer-run charity into a staffed operation, securing over $2M in funding, building social enterprises, creating 100+ job opportunities, and delivering conservation and climate action through community programs, education, and advocacy. Now in consulting, Claire works on projects for federal, provincial, and regional governments.
Claire has served on more than ten RMOW and regional advisory committees, as well as the boards of Whistler Chamber of Commerce and Arts Whistler. Claire helped develop key RMOW strategies and has worked to turn policy into action with Whistler businesses, non-profits, residents and guests.
Claire has a Master’s in Environment & Business, Certificates in Economics of Public Policy and Public Policy Analysis and Innovation, and multiple courses in leadership, community engagement and project management – all of which she has used on the ground implementing programs that contribute to shared community goals.
claireruddyforwhistler@gmail.com | c_ruddy@yahoo.com | claireruddy.ca
Claire Ruddy’s nomination package (PDF)
Dawn Titus
Dawn, a 43 year Whistler’ite. Queen’s U. Sciences/BEd. Educator in S2S School District 1984 to 2015. Team player in collaboration for successful student and staff outcomes Represented Triathlon Canada at Worlds Australia, Portugal and Ironman Hawaii.
Ten years of engagement in Municipal discussions and attending Council meetings has developed a strong understanding of Municipal government. Informed and thoughtful, Dawn was appointed to a term with RMOW Recreation and Leisure Committee.
AWARE and Whistler MAC member. Whistler Museum guide, preserving important Resort history. VAIL Adaptive ski instructor; Yoga Instructor at Four Seasons Hotel, providing quality Guest Experiences.
- Represent the interests of residents and local businesses 2. Property taxation concerns must be addressed. 3. Support Seniors, create a Seniors’ Center. 4. Finalize agreement on Northlands development with retention of a valued Community facility. 5. Address WHA housing (rents, ownership), maintaining a critical eye on OCP parameters.
604-967-1437 | madeiradawn2004@yahoo.ca | Instagram: @dawntitus | Facebook: dawn titus
Dawn Titus’ nomination package (PDF)
Eduardo Vazquez-Vela
Sixteen years ago, my family put down roots in Whistler, raised our kids, and built our life here.
Born in Toronto and raised in Mexico, I studied law there before pursuing postgraduate studies in political science and public administration in France. I then worked in government administration, experience that taught me how public institutions work.
For many years, I’ve also been an entrepreneur, building businesses and creating jobs, and I know firsthand how hard it is to run a business. Today I operate a travel company and destination management company that brings hundreds of visitors to Whistler every year, and I sit on the boards of companies in tourism, energy, and education.
My focus is on the people who make this community work. I want to bring that mindset to Council to push for better housing, transportation, and the priorities that matter most to the people who actually live here.
604-935-7725 | eduardo@eduardo4whistler.com | eduardo4whistler.com
Eduardo Vazquez-Vela’s nomination package (PDF)
Candidates for School Trustee (to be elected by acclamation)
Susan Hamersley
After more than 35 years as an educator in the Sea to Sky School District, and as a parent who raised two children in Whistler schools, I bring a lifelong passion for public education and a deep understanding of our district. Having worked throughout SD48, I have seen firsthand the unique strengths and needs of our diverse communities.
I bring extensive experience problem-solving within the complexities of public education to best meet students’ needs.
I believe every student deserves an equal opportunity to succeed and to feel supported, respected, safe and valued at school. I am committed to fiscal responsibility, transparent and accountable decision-making, and ensuring student well-being and educational outcomes remain at the centre of every decision.
I will listen, ask thoughtful questions and work collaboratively to ensure Whistler’s students, families and schools have a strong voice at the Board, while supporting the needs of learners across SD48.
Susan Hamersley’s nomination package (PDF)