Another acclaimed mayor for Radium Hot Springs

Since its incorporation in 1990, Radium Hot Springs has acclaimed each of its mayors. The tradition continues.

Clara Reinhardt has been acclaimed to the office of mayor of Radium Hot Springs, B.C. — Photo courtesy Clara Reinhardt

Before Clara and Reg Reinhardt moved to Radium Hot Springs, B.C., in 2005, they did a lot of homework. Reg’s work had taken them all over the country, and Clara was clear that she wanted to put down roots somewhere. They finally chose Radium Hot Springs, and right from the beginning it’s been perfect.

What was your motivation for running for the office of mayor?

I have been interested in local government for quite some time. After we moved here in 2005, I had an opportunity to be on council for two terms, working quite closely with Dee (Konklin, former mayor). When Dee told me she wouldn’t be standing for re-election, I felt it was an opportunity for me.

What aspect of your character will be most valuable to you as mayor?

I’m a people person. I like meeting people and talking with them and learning about where they’ve been and what they do and how they think. My husband thinks my communication skills are pretty strong, including my listening skills.

What do you think will be your greatest challenge in the first six months?

I know a bit about the regional district. I was an alternate on the East Kootenay Regional District board, so I’ve sat in on meetings, and I think it will be helpful to know a bit about the protocol. You never know what kinds of issues will arise, so that’s an unknown. I have a lot of confidence in our municipal and regional staff, though. We’re known for our strong administration, and that gives me a feeling of being supported. They know the rules and they’ll keep us in line—both the local staff at Radium and the regional staff have got our back.

What goal are you looking forward to working on?

At the regional level, we have started doing some collaborative work. We have a joint site now on Invest Kootenay for some economic development and we’re working toward having a valley-wide visitor centre, which can save us money and allow us to work together on branding and advertising. Nobody comes to the Columbia Valley and stays put in one community. They’re here to enjoy the amenities of the whole valley, so it makes sense for us to share the advertising costs and benefits. The valley-wide stuff is exciting.

What do you do for relaxation and recreation?

Oh, I have a variety of favourites. I swim all winter long in the cool pool, I love to cross-country ski, I walk every day and I golf. It’s all so convenient—I just love being here!