Coastal Currents with Aaron Reid features relaxed, candid conversations with the people who shape Powell River and the qathet region. Hear the stories, experiences and perspectives behind our community - from local personalities and community leaders to sports, business, culture and the people doing interesting things close to home.
Episodes
Oct 7, 2026
Oct 7, 2026
32 min
Season 4 | Jim Palm: 2026 Mayoral Candidate Interview
Jim Palm is one of four candidates seeking to become the next Mayor of the City of Powell River.
Jim has called Powell River home since 1984. He spent forty years working with local students as a teacher, counsellor and career-education advocate and has served five terms on Powell River City Council.
In this one-on-one conversation, we discuss why Jim is running for Mayor, his approach to leadership and how he would work with independently elected councillors who may have sharply different priorities.
The interview also addresses affordability, property taxes, rebuilding the commercial tax base, economic development, infrastructure, housing, seniors’ needs, community safety, the City’s relationship with Tla’amin Nation, the unresolved question of the City’s name, opportunities for young people and families, and municipal bylaws concerning domestic animals.
Questions specific to Jim ask him to account for his record over five terms on Council, including an accomplishment and something he would handle differently, and explain what he believes would change if voters moved him from a councillor’s seat to the Mayor’s chair.
About this series
All four mayoral candidates were asked the same core questions, along with two questions specific to their experience, record or campaign. The candidates did not receive the questions in advance and were provided comparable interview time.
Interviews may be edited for sound quality, clarity and flow, but the substance of a candidate’s answers is not altered or rearranged to change its meaning.
Listeners are encouraged to hear all four conversations before deciding which candidate they support.
Voting information
Advance voting takes place October 7, 10 and 14. General Voting Day is Saturday, October 17, 2026.
For voting locations, eligibility requirements and mail-ballot information, visit the City of Powell River’s official election page.
Candidate information
This independently produced series is not an endorsement and is not authorized, sponsored or paid for by any candidate or campaign.
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