Peachland council harassment must stop, mayor says – Peachland News

Photo: Peachland District

Peachland Mayor and Council

Enough.

That’s the sentiment of Mayor Peachland, who says the political discourse in the community is becoming increasingly toxic.

“There have been recent incidents of harassment, intimidation and vandalism to the personal property of our borough council members,” Mayor Patrick Van Minsel said in a news release Thursday.

“This kind of behavior is not only unacceptable, it goes against the very fabric of our community’s values.”

In an interview with Castanet News, Van Minsel says harassment and intimidation of councilors has been a pressing issue for “the last few months … even a year.”

Van Minsel says the social media talk this week about local politics has been “too much” and “terrifying” for him.

“I have no problem with people following their opinion, absolutely not. I urge them to do so, but with respect,” the mayor continued.

Van Minsel said he could not comment on the specifics of the vandalism of councillors’ personal property, but said the matter was “under review”.

Peachland councilors earn just over $18,000 a year, so while it’s not a volunteer position, it’s one that’s done for the benefit of the community.

“I think the board position should show some respect,” Van Minsel said.

“They have put in, and I can attest to that, countless hours of very hard work and sacrifices of personal time just to represent our community and their interests.”

While social media can be useful for local discussion and interaction, if used incorrectly, Van Minsel says, “it can fuel a lot of misunderstandings and undermine trust in the community.”

The mayor says any further harassment, intimidation or vandalism against council members will be referred to law enforcement.

Van Minsel says anyone with questions or disagreements with the board can contact him directly at (email protected).

“I am here to listen, understand and mediate to resolve any issues constructively and respectfully. Let’s continue to build a community where dialogue, respect and civility are our guiding principles,” he said in a press release.