The competition for the mayoral position in Prince George is intensifying, with incumbent Simon Yu confirming his candidacy for re-election despite facing strong challenges from two popular city councillors. Garth Frizzell, a long-serving council member since 2008, and Kyle Sampson, who was elected in 2018 and re-elected in 2022, are both vying for the mayoral seat. Another contender in the race is Roy Stewart, a local attorney who previously finished third in the mayor’s race.
In Prince George’s political landscape, where there is no party system, it is uncommon for sitting councillors to challenge the incumbent mayor. The city, with a population of around 90,000, follows an at-large voting system where voters can choose one mayor and up to eight councillors, fostering a collaborative political environment. Traditionally, councillors have waited for the current mayor to step down before running for the position, with few exceptions like when Coun. Shari Green unseated the mayor in 2011.
Despite the formidable opponents, Yu remains unfazed, emphasizing that voters will ultimately judge based on qualifications, passion, and leadership capabilities to take the city forward. Yu, a civil engineer by profession, entered city politics without prior elected experience, pledging a pragmatic and analytical approach to address municipal challenges.
Yu, having secured victory in the 2022 mayoral race with 40% of the votes, points to ongoing issues like homelessness, mental health, and substance abuse as areas needing attention. He aims to bolster Prince George’s role as a service hub for the region’s resource industries. Frizzell, with extensive council experience and a background in business ownership, plans to focus on rebuilding trust in government, enhancing public safety, and driving economic growth amidst new development projects in the area.
Sampson, the youngest councillor elected in 2018 at 25 years old, advocates for leveraging the city’s current economic prospects while addressing concerns regarding public safety and investment. He envisions making Prince George a more attractive destination by streamlining city hall operations to stimulate growth and affordability. The upcoming municipal election is scheduled for October 17.