BC’s political landscape seems to change by the week... new parties, shifting allegiances, and plenty of noise. But what about the voters in the middle who just want good government?

In this episode of Non-Partisan Hacks, Parksville councillors Joel Grenz and Sean Wood welcome Karin Kirkpatrick, leader of CentreBC and former MLA for West Vancouver–Capilano. From her time as Shadow Minister for Housing, Childcare, and Families to her leadership in the non-profit sector, Karin brings a unique perspective on how government can serve people better, without the partisan dogfights.

The conversation covers:

• Why CentreBC was formed and what it means to be “in the middle”
• The challenges of housing, affordability, and short-term rentals (including Parksville’s Resort Row)
• How governments can (and should) collaborate across levels
• The risks of polarization and the case for pragmatic, data-driven decision-making
• Why “boring” government might actually be good government

Recorded from Joel’s deck (with fresh bread in the background), this episode blends substance, banter, and a look at what’s next for BC politics.

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Thinking about throwing your hat in the ring for local office? Or maybe someone told you you should run? In this episode, we pull back the curtain on what it really takes to run — and serve — in local government.

Joel and Sean share candid reflections on why people run, what the job actually involves, and what they wish they knew before signing up. From campaign prep and council dynamics to emotional stamina and reading 2,000-page agendas, this episode is packed with real talk (and a few warnings).

Plus... An apology from a Nanaimo city councillor who suggested sending busloads of people to a cabinet minister’s house, and had the courage to walk it back.

Whether you’re gearing up for the next municipal election or just curious what goes on behind the nameplates, this episode is for you.

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Find all our episodes at nonpartisanhacks.com and be sure to drop us a line.

Can provincial housing targets be a smarter way to plan future housing across the province?

In this no-guest episode of Non-Partisan Hacks, Joel and Sean unpack a new Parksville resolution headed to the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) that seeks to uplevel how the Province sets housing targets for local governments. It’s a call for smarter, more climate-resilient, infrastructure-ready planning for BC's future.

In this show's quote take, we confront the awkward truth: local governments are trying to make housing more affordable… using the limited tools they have: taxing homes.

We also touch on:

• Factors besides population growth predictions that need to be part of the housing equation
• Insurance industry may have some insight into planning
• and Sean's take on Sean's take

Want more background on the resolution? Read Joel’s full blog post: joelgrenz.ca/advocacy/ubcm-resolution-supporting-climate-resilient-and-infrastructure-ready-housing-targets

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