Squamish voters officially have a race for the top job in the upcoming municipal election.On Friday (Oct. 7), independent business consultant Auli Parviainen declared her intention to run in the November municipal election for the top job. Parviainen's announcement comes four days after current Coun. Rob Kirkham entered the mayoral race.Local government has been slow to embrace the rapid changes in Squamish over the past number of years, Parviainen said."My impression is that the actions of the local government haven't reflected the evolving fibre of the community despite significant public consultation over the course of the last decade," she stated in a press release. "Broader representation, full accountability and a mandate on transparency are needed to repair local government's reputation. We must work on uniting the community towards a common purpose and encourage on-going participation via variety of methods."A Squamish resident for two years, Parviainen said she's developed a greater understanding of the passions, interests and concerns of the community after spending the last six months speaking with a diverse group of residents."I love everything Squamish has to offer but I do see the need to bring different voices to local government," she stated. "We have the innovation within to build an iconic town vibrant with life, work, arts, culture and recreation. I believe I have the skills to lead a team toward a common vision and I am honoured to run for Mayor."Parviainen said she would provide leadership that not only encourages community engagement, but also embraces technology.Stay tuned to The Chief for more breaking news on the upcoming municipal election.
