BURSTThe 2026 local government election is still several months away, but one person has already thrown his name into the race for Smithers mayor.
Current councillor John Buikema, who has been in council for eight years and is also currently chairing the Finance Committee, has decided to let his name stand for the top job.
With Mayor Gladys Atrill not running again, the door is wide open for someone new.
Buikema said he thinks it is important for someone with political experience to fill the mayor’s chair.
“It would be incredibly difficult for someone who has never been a town councillor to fill the mayor’s seat,” he said. “There would not be a familiarity with the issues facing the town, and there would not be established relationships with town staff that happen when someone is already a town councillor.”
Buikema moved to Smithers in 1999 to take a principal position at a school in town. He worked at Bulkley Valley Christian School from 1999 to 2015 and then he stepped away from the school for seven years and worked for an accounting firm before going back to the school. He is retiring in the fall, freeing up some time for the responsibility that comes with mayoral duties.
“Smithers is very dear to me,” he added. “This is where we raised our kids. I have a daughter and son-in-law in the community, grandchildren. They own Home Hardware, so I’m quite familiar too with the challenges facing the business community.”
He said one of the big concerns for the present council is the viability of the regional airport because it is so crucial to the community. He also wants to make building the new library a continued priority for the upcoming council and he knows that affordability is a big issue for residents.
“I love politics,” Buikema added. “I feel like it’s a real privilege to be an elected official, and I’ve served two terms, and I’ve been really proud of the councils in Smithers. We don’t fight, we don’t bicker, we do politics very respectfully. I’d like to see that continue in the next four years.”
Current councillor Sam Raven is planning on running again for council and she is pleased that Buikema has put his name forward for mayor.
“I have learned a tremendous amount from him during this term, and I have seen firsthand the depth of experience he brings to local government,” she said.
“Through years of serving our community, navigating challenges, and advocating for the issues that matter most to residents, he has demonstrated steady leadership and a strong commitment to public service.”
She also believes his experience on council, particularly as finance chair, has given him a solid understanding of municipal finances, operations, and long-term planning.
“John is thoughtful, humble, and leads with integrity. He has the experience, skills, and temperament needed to be an effective mayor, and I believe the residents and businesses of Smithers would be well served by his leadership.”
Atrill was also happy to see Buikema put his name forward.
“John has been a very good councillor,” she said. “He is a reasonable man, he’s an intelligent man, he has community at heart, so I don’t have any trouble in thinking about John running for mayor.”
The next local election will be held on October 17, 2026.