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Neufeld resigns from Nakusp council; by-election to be held

Councillor says health issues have forced her to step down
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In this file photo, Janis Neufeld poses with a trophy from a triathlon she participated in. (Andreea Myhal/Arrow Lakes News)

A Nakusp village councillor is resigning her seat to deal with health issues.

“I’m having some considerable health concerns,” said Janis Neufeld. “It’s not best for me, my health, or my family for me to continue at this time.”

Neufeld says she’s had a positive experience since being voted into office in October 2018, when she ranked second in total votes.

“It’s been interesting learning about the process, and how the organization runs, and having the opportunity to work with the mayor and other councillors,” she said. “But it was also quite stressful, and just not the right timing for me.”

“I feel really bad having to step down, it was a very hard decision to make. This is doctor-recommended, but I feel bad the way it played out as it did. I apologize to the community.”

Mayor Tom Zeleznik said her energy on council will be missed.

“We regret she can no longer be a councillor,” he told Arrow Lakes News. “She had a lot to offer this village. We’re going to miss her, but her health has to come first.

“We wish her all the best.”

An official at the village office says no date has been set for a by-election.

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Janis Neufeld and her husband Shon have run Shon’s Bike and Ski Shop in Nakusp, and have been active participants in the village’s sports community. (Photo by: Jillian Trainor)