William James Turnbull
Candidate for Mayor
View Nomination Documents
Contact Information
Email: Click to SendWebsite: Click to View
Facebook: Click to View
Twitter: Click to View
Phone: 250 372 5572
Personal Information
Resident of: City CentreAge: 51
Current Occupation: Retired
Political Experience:
I've always been intrigued and paid attention IE I remember Joe Clark being elected for the first time. I contributed and campaigned for a few candidates in the byelection. Despite running, I'm supporting other candidates in this election. I'm acting Strata President. President of the Kamloops Downtown Neighbourhood Association.
Biography
- William James Turnbull: Investor / Philanthropist / Humanitarian
- Creator of Turnbull Humanitarian Foundation & KNA Nexus Group: Meaning & Purpose: Gather Allies - Determine a Course of Action - Implement the Process - For the betterment of all.
- Tradesman Experience: Construction, Electrical, Plumbing & Gas Fitting
- Northwest Community College, Vancouver Island University, British Columbia Institute of Technology
- Boards & Committees: Community Action Team, Changing the Face of Poverty, Poverty Reduction Strategy Committee, Kaleidoscope Support Association, Western Canada Renewable Energy Association, VP Strata Council, VP Morning Sun Toastmasters, President Kamloops Downtown Neighbourhood Association, Facilitator Kamloops Neighbourhood Association
- From Williams Lake, BC (20 years). Live in Kamloops (11 years).
- Online:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamturnbull01/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100014798258408
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_yjl-OjSuIwxuNG1oAyBeQ
External Page Links
| Other | News Release – 2nd Place Candidate – Offers Congrats to Mayor! | Click to Visit |
| Kamloops This Week | Decision ’18 | Click to Visit |
| CFJC | CFJC Midday – Candidate Debate 02 | Click to Visit |
| Proletariat Kami | Kamloops Election 2018 William James Turnbull | Click to Visit |
| CFJC | Decision 2018: Mayoral candidate William Turnbull | Click to Visit |
| TRUSU | William Turnbull – Kamloops Election 2018 | Click to Visit |
| Kameo | Kameo w/ William Turnbull | Click to Visit |
| Armchair Mayor | EDITORIAL – The civic election in Kamloops doesn’t have to be boring | Click to Visit |
| Radio NL | Audio from Radio NL interiew | Click to Visit |
| Radio NL | More about the man challenging the incumbent Mayor of Kamloops next month | Click to Visit |
| CFJC | Kamloops mayoral candidate offering voters a ‘progressive choice’ | Click to Visit |
| Kamloops This Week | Turnbull pushes people power in his bid for mayor | Click to Visit |
| Kamloops Matters | Kamloops election 2018: William James Turnbull on why he’s running for mayor | Click to Visit |
Organization Endorsements
BC Progressive Development Group
The BC Progressive Development Group (BCPDG) is a nonpartisan group that focuses on Federal, BC Provincial, and Municipal election issues that effect the people of British Columbia involved in construction and industrial fields.
View WebsiteEndorsements
Wiilliam Turnbull is impeccable with community engagement, team building, finding common ground, and building professional and personal connections. His dedication, understanding, compassion, concerns, and efforts regarding some of the big issues facing our community are unparalleled. William exudes a calm empathetic strength. He is an invaluable member of our city and would make an exceptional addition to the city team. Choose a mayor that cares. Vote William Turnbull.
I have known BIll Turnbull for the past several years, and have been impressed with his community engagement, his understanding of the issues facing our community and his willingness to work cooperatively with a diversity of citizens to improve Kamloops. I am very pleased to endorse him to be the next mayor of our city.
I feel I present a clear choice for citizens that want to live in a thriving, meaningful & purpose driven society. I have worked extremely hard to be in the position to lead the city in this endeavour.
I first met Bill a couple of years ago. It seems about the only place I see him is at city meetings or other public events, listening and learning and getting a feel for the community. He has a bunch of steep learning curves ahead of him but he will learn and collaborate and cooperate with the other councillors in the best interest of the City and doing the best job he possibly can.
William cares for our community and believes that a thriving community develops from caring for everyone in it. He believes that we as a city can do better, and wants to see Kamloops thrive in all arenas-social, technological, environmental and business.
Bill cares about people and democracy-something that has been lacking in the mayor's chair in Kamloops in recent years.
What’s more important, an individual building the economy or the economy building individuals? We have plenty of leadership in multiple sectors integrating innovative ideas that in turn bolster our community. I am very grateful for these people and excited for the next 10 years in Kamloops. If a mayor thinks they can lead with change in these areas in mind, I think they are mistaken these areas are thriving and healthy. There is however growing disparity and uncertainty surrounding the health of individuals in our community. How is it ok to celebrate the wins of economic growth on one corner, when on a corner across the street people are facing seemingly insurmountable challenges such as accessing shelter, food, and health care? Therefore in my eyes a direct approach needs to be undertaken to get people housed and I think this is the best solution for our community. If we can come together to solve one of the largest crisis of our time, then I think we can accomplish anything as a community. This is exactly why I am endorsing Mr.Turnbull. He will tackle an incredibly challenging task head on and I think he has the gumption needed to see it through.
Let’s stop this collective cognitive dissonance once and for all where we think one part of our home bing on fire is ok if another part isn’t. If there is disease in a body going unchecked. We are a body of people so let’s act like it!
I have complete trust in William James Turnbull's ability to represent our city as mayor. His work as president of the downtown neighborhood association demonstrates an ability to conduct meetings, advocate for others, and work cooperatively to get things accomplished.
What I like about Bill personally is his empathy and compassion for all people. His sense of humour and welcoming attitude would set a more positive tone at City Hall. With that infectious energy I believe he can be the leader that redoubles our efforts to address crime, homelessness, and the opioid drug crisis.
I support Willam James Turnbull for Mayor he works for everyone...
I endorse William Turnbull for Mayor for more reasons than just he is the only Mayoral candidate to fill out thus great site. You should check him out. Very determined and capable of anything he sets his mind to. Also has 0 agenda other than to serve for the betterment of all. He will listen too!
I came to know William long before he ran for election this year. Through reaching out to find active ways to help our community from the ground up, not the outside in. From the times where he clearly sees something that needs doing and finds a way to do it, to the ones where he gets involved as part of the bigger team, he's proven himself over and over to me to the not only a great candidate for mayor but also the type of person I want in any high position in the city. At least one of our mayoral candidates is honest.
I support William Turnbull because of his dedication to the community, honesty and general understanding of complex social issues that affect all those who live in our community. Time and time again William Turnbull has shown he cares for where Kamloops is headed, he has a vision for the future.
As a small business owner I feel Bill would be great for Kamloops as Mayor. He has listened to my questions and has helped me when it comes to my business.
William has been a considerate and caring supporter of our group. He attends all of our events, and contributes his time, effort and funds. William cares about the population in our community. He has shown the people of Kamloops that he listens to them and values their opinions.
Bill is an excellent choice for mayor. His awareness and action on social justice and environment issues make him particularly well suited to representing all people in Kamloops. Bill demonstrates passion, knowledge and a willingness to listen and learn to many different viewpoints; I look forward to seeing him take on this position for the betterment of the city!!
I believe Bill is the better choice for mayor.
I endorse Bill for the job.
Looking for a good man? Look no further! Committed, with a vision, hard working, open to ideas and solutions. He is the Mayor our city needs!
Excellent candidate for Mayor with a wide vision and ready to listen to new ideas.
Answers to Questions from the Public
Nadine Turpin asks the City Councillor, Mayor Candidates
Good infrastructure is very important to any city. The roads in Kamloops are noticeably in very poor condition, specifically on the south shore including Valleyview drive. Patching the roads is not a viable long term solution. Can you advise what your role will be in advocating for better roadways in Kamloops? What is the city’s plan for resurfacing and improving our road ways? Thank you.
William James Turnbull Answered
The Transportation Master Plan is the city guide. https://www.kamloops.ca/sites/default/files/2018-06-22-tmp-final_body_and_appendices.pdf It ranks projects in order of priority. One potential project that might save Valleyview roads from unnecessary traffic wear is this one: "... Valleyview bypass, as identified by the Province, on the bench lands between Valleyview and Juniper Ridge. The City will continue to work with the Province to understand the need for additional capacity improvements throughout the Southeast Sector. …" - Prepared by Urban Systems Ltd. (for City of Kamloops)
Ken Barry asks the City Councillor, Mayor Candidates
How do you feel about a Ward System for Kamloops?
William James Turnbull Answered
I feel it needs to be seriously looked into. A hybrid model perhaps? Currently we have Neighbourhood Associations. With the rise of Grassroots Governance they can play a major part in directing the city for specific areas & as a whole. Regardless, transparency & representation need major improving.
Ken Barry asks the City Councillor, Mayor Candidates
How do you feel about a two term limit for City Councilors?
William James Turnbull Answered
I feel that's a great idea! Perhaps even one term....
Ken Barry asks the City Councillor, Mayor Candidates
As Kamloops pays the lion’s share of the TNRD funding and has six representatives on its board how do you feel about the CAO picking up $117,000.00 in overtime to add to his salaried $206,000.00 pay.
William James Turnbull Answered
I personally feel ill over it. Perhaps my gut reaction is unfounded. In my view the co - ordinated relief effort two years ago during the fires was poor by those in charge of executing it. The citizens quickly picked up the slack.
Ken Barry asks the City Councillor, Mayor Candidates
Have you read the Kamloops Transportation Master Plan? If so what your thoughts?
William James Turnbull Answered
No. I have read the Official Community Plan. The Kamloops Transportation Master Plan needs to be added to my growing list. I've read parts of many other relevant city documents.
Pat c asks the City Councillor, Mayor Candidates
I would like to know what the mayor and councillors will do about the numerous potholes on kamloops roads - a recent article in Kamloops this week asked for the public to let city know where the potholes are located- please just drive from rosehill road up columbia street to summit and then summit on highway to rogers way- it is hard to miss them
Thank you
William James Turnbull Answered
Recommend a full time crew be formed to do the main routes, then the side routes & then repeat.
Darryl Schmidt asks the City Councillor, Mayor, School Trustee Candidates
If your campaign had a theme song, what would it be?
William James Turnbull Answered
Eye of the Tiger! Oh ya.... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btPJPFnesV4
Jayne Trent asks the City Councillor, Mayor Candidates
Are you for, against, or undecided about land application of biosolids? If you are undecided will do you plan on taking what ever advice city staff puts forward to council or will you be doing your own independent research?
William James Turnbull Answered
We need to use proven processes that completely eliminate any harmful chemicals before considering land application of biosolids IE Run the biosolids through a machine that produces electricity & bio - pellets.
Dick Stewart asks the City Councillor, Mayor, School Trustee Candidates
What was their previous Job ? or employment ?
William James Turnbull Answered
Machine Operator Thermite Crew CP Rail.
Leslie asks the City Councillor, Mayor Candidates
What are your thoughts on accountability and transparency and Council decisions made behind closed doors?
Far too often it appears that decisions are taken 'in camera' because the Community Charter ALLOWS the topic to be taken behind closed doors, not because the discussion/decision HAS to be taken behind closed doors.
(The Community Charter is clear on which topics must be discussed in private and which may be discussed in private, leaving a lot of leeway for lack of transparency.)
William James Turnbull Answered
Only items / issues that must be in camera. The rest need to be in public.
Julie asks the City Councillor, Mayor Candidates
After having lived in more than a few cities, I have found Kamloops lacking in many different areas such as transit, road maintenance, traffic flow, taxis (very big issue!) and pedestrian accessibility. Have you taken into account these issues and what are your solutions be timeline?
Thank you,
Julie
William James Turnbull Answered
Yes. Need 15 minute frequency on the main bus routes. Need infrastructure to divert big rigs. Incentivize people using other modes other than their personal vehicle. More paths even pedestrian bridges. Timeline: Some things can be done immediately. Others will be more long term. Set priorities work within the realities of the budget.
Melissa asks the City Councillor, Mayor, School Trustee Candidates
What are 3 things you think are going well for Kamloops, what 3 things need improving and what are 3 things you'd like to express that could promote compassion and dignity towards our cities most vulnrable?
William James Turnbull Answered
1) Sunlight, Friendly & A Hub. 2) Living wage jobs, Parks & Transportation. 3) Immediate Emergency Shelter, Say Hello & Integrate Fully Into Society.
Peter Kerek asks the City Councillor, Mayor Candidates
Food Banks first started appearing in Canada in the early 1980's - and their usage has only increased since then. Why do you think Food Banks have become a permanent institution in Canada, even though we live in a country that has no shortage of food? And what systemic changes need to occur to eliminate the need for Food Banks?
William James Turnbull Answered
Lack of a living wage (or guaranteed living income).
Jennifer Davis asks the Mayor Candidates
Do you support starting curbside composting in Kamloops? If so would you expect citizens to reduce their need for garbage collection? Also what timeframe do you see curbside composting implemented in?
William James Turnbull Answered
I'd like to see compost pick up (for those without easy access to a garden area). I'm guessing it would take at least a year to get the program started.
Beat Klossner asks the School Trustee Candidates
Preparing for bargaining for the next collective agreement between teachers and the employers is currently underway.
Should teachers/ support staff be considered an "essential service" when bargaining time comes around?
William James Turnbull Answered
Educators are a necessary service. If made essential they'd lose the right to strike. Which wouldn't help anyone.
Bryce asks the School Trustee Candidates
School District 73 has an over-management issue and is "out of touch" with the actual users (teachers, students, and parent). As School Trustee how would you address this?
William James Turnbull Answered
As Mayor, I would encourage Council to instruct the CAO to work closely with SD73 Staff & Trustees. Purpose / reason being there are many areas of mutual overlap & benefit between the City & SD73.
Bryce asks the City Councillor, Mayor, School Trustee Candidates
British Columbians are actually heading to two polls this year, municipal and we also have the mail-in referendum on Proportional Representation.
What's your position on Proportional Representation and why? Should Kamloops also consider some sort of electoral reform for municipal to ensure each area/neighbourhood of Kamloops gets equitable representation on council? Perhaps even lowering the municipal voting age to 16 to get youth more engage.
William James Turnbull Answered
1) I support PR because I support Electoral Reform. FPTP benefits the 1%. PR benefits the 99%. No party actually wants PR. We are in a fortunate situation. PR passed the first time in my view & needs to be legally instated. I suspect the 60% threshold was purposely created to defeat it. Quebec's, Scotland's & Brexit's threshold were 50 + 1. BC's PR vote pales in comparison to those referendums.
2) Sure, wards could be looked at. I'd prefer we give neighbourhood associations a chance. They are picking up speed. Apparently Calgary has a powerful neighbourhood setup. I'm biased as current President of the Downtown Neighbourhood Association. We are working closely with other associations.
3) Absolutely lower the age to 16. Scotland, the second greatest country on earth has 😉
Megan Mcfadyen asks the Mayor Candidates
Do you have any sort of plan or interest in developing a plan to address the trains idling for extended periods of time?
William James Turnbull Answered
It's worth being pro - active about. From the article I skimmed over there are win win scenarios. It also explains why the damn trains are left to idle. Some valid reasons. The solutions are still there however. I will post it here. https://www.otc-cta.gc.ca/eng/publication/noise-and-vibration-idling-locomotives
Nevin Webster asks the City Councillor Candidates
What is something that costs less than $10 a month that you think the current city council should utilize to improve Kamloops starting today?
William James Turnbull Answered
A phone call to MacGyver, a trip to the Dollar Store & all of Kamloops problems could be solved by the current council for $9.99/mth. Or buy 4 bus tickets & have council do a lottery on who is riding the bus that month (they need to ask for a cent from a stranger to make up the fifth bus ticket [$1.99 + .01 = $2.00 Bus Ticket]). And yes I ride the bus, I purposely do not have a car.
Deanna Gilbert asks the City Councillor Candidates
What practical policies do you support that will improve the lives of LBGTQ+ people in Kamloops? For example, do you support the conversion of gendered single stall bathrooms (i.e. Men/Women) to non-gendered bathrooms. This wouldn't even necessarily need new signs, but removing the one displaying the Man/Woman icon.
William James Turnbull Answered
Yes non - gender bathrooms make sense. I'd support health care IE The local doctor that is set up specifically for transgender people. Be open to concerns / issues from the Kamloops Pride Board & the Kaleidoscope Support Association (of which I am a former board member, now member).
William Turnbull asks the City Councillor, Mayor, School Trustee Candidates
Why do you want to be elected?
William James Turnbull Answered
I feel the majority of citizens are being left out & left behind with the current Mayor, CAO & Staff run city. I want to see a Council / Public tell the staff what they want & make sure the CAO ensure staff makes it happen. This is why I am running for mayor.
Kamloops Voter asks the City Councillor Candidates
Do you consider yourself:
A) Leader
B) Team player
C) Lone wolf
Explain
William James Turnbull Answered
The Mayoral Candidates weren't asked, but I'm going to answer anyway... D) All of the Above. I'm a natural leader. To be leader, I need to be a team player or they will find a new leader. If something is important enough I will break away from the back an get r done.
Kamloops Voter asks the City Councillor, Mayor Candidates
What additions or improvements would you like to see to the recreational offerings in Kamloops?
William James Turnbull Answered
Washrooms that are open, clean & safe. More green space. Safer bike lanes connected to all of Kamloops & area. Develop the Public Beach on Kamloops Lake & have transit to it. Shovel crews and sidewalk snow sweeper machines keeping pedestrian paths clear in all areas of Kamloops (quite relying on property owners to do it). Mini water slides throughout the city. Community ponds / ice rinks. Geocaching Events. Evening Night Life & Activities.
Kamloops Voter asks the City Councillor, Mayor Candidates
What are the most important changes to the budget that you'd like to see?
William James Turnbull Answered
There was a city questionnaire on this. I slid 3 areas to do able (Fire, Police & Administration if I recall correctly). That enabled all other departments to maximize their spending. It would need to be looked at extremely closely & requires other funding IE Federal, Provincial & Regional to do safely & responsibly. Specifically I haven't reviewed this year's budget. I'm guessing we could use a pedestrian bridge across the CP Rail Yard, Road Bridges Westsyde & Rayleigh West North Shore & West South Shore improve Red Bridge & develop a public washroom model that is safe & clean all the time for everyone.
Kamloops Voter asks the City Councillor, Mayor Candidates
Are there any specific ways that you can see that the city can better serve the business community?
William James Turnbull Answered
Streamline the entire relationship process with the business community IE Efficacy with applications, inspections, permits & exemptions. Increase council & staff's direct involvement with Venture Kamloops. We need to ensure our funding is lining up with the OCP (Official Community Plan). Doesn't make sense to risk opposed visions within the city government itself.
Kamloops Voter asks the City Councillor, Mayor, School Trustee Candidates
What do you see as the single most important issue facing Kamloops right now?
What are your ideas for managing or overcoming this issue?
William James Turnbull Answered
Connection; figuratively & literally. Huge geographical area. Infill with density projects (30,000 new
residents projected over the next 20 years) of housing, parks & business. Infrastructure IE Bridges Road & Pedestrian. Build & improve on our symbiosis with the TNRD & Tk emlups.