Message from Mayor Patrick Van Minsel
As we reflect on 2025, I would like to extend my warmest holiday wishes to all Okanagan and Peachland residents, families, businesses, and community partners. This season offers a meaningful opportunity to come together, give thanks, and recognize the strong sense of community that makes Peachland such a special place to call home.
I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together this year. Through the dedication of Council, staff, volunteers, and our community partners, 2025 has been a year of significant progress, marked by investments that strengthen our community today while laying the foundation for the future.
One of the most important milestones this year has been the start of construction on a new 104-space childcare facility. This transformational project will support families, attract and retain workers, and enhance the quality of life in Peachland.
We were also pleased to celebrate the opening of the Sports Park at Turner Park, which expanded recreational opportunities for residents of all ages, and our brand-new dog park at Sanderson. This long-awaited amenity has quickly become a valued gathering space for pet owners and their dogs.
Active transportation and outdoor recreation continued to be a priority in 2025, with the completion of the trail connection between Peachland and West Kelowna, which improved safety, accessibility, and regional connectivity for walkers and cyclists.
Key infrastructure improvements were completed this year, including road resurfacing and upgrades on Princeton Avenue and Somerset Avenue, enhancing safety and mobility throughout our community. We also marked the start of construction on the signalized intersection at Highway 97 and Trepanier Bench Road, a critical project that will significantly improve traffic flow and safety.
As we reflect on these accomplishments, we do so with heavy hearts following the passing of Deputy Mayor Keith Thom in November 2025. Keith was a passionate advocate for Peachland and a dedicated public servant who deeply cared about our community's future. He played an essential role in shaping many of the initiatives we advanced this year and would have been immensely proud of these achievements. His commitment, integrity, and vision will continue to inspire our work moving forward
These accomplishments, along with many other initiatives completed throughout the year, reflect our shared commitment to building a vibrant, inclusive, and forward-looking Peachland. As we close out 2025, we do so with a strong sense of accomplishment and with great optimism as we look ahead to what 2026 may bring—continuing to plan responsibly, invest wisely, and work together to meet the evolving needs of our community.
On behalf of Peachland Council and staff, I wish everyone a wonderful holiday season and a healthy, happy, and prosperous New Year. I look forward to continuing our work together in 2026 and beyond as we build a community we can all be proud of.
Warm Regards,
Patrick Van Minsel
Mayor of Peachland