Okanagan Echo Civic Series: Mohini Singh
Okanagan Echo asked all 11 women running for council the same four questions about why they’re running, the priorities they would bring to City Hall, the experience they offer and what they want residents to know before voting.
Kelowna voters will head to the polls on October 17, 2026, to elect a mayor and eight city councillors. The official field includes 37 candidates for council, including the 11 women featured here. Advance voting begins October 7.
Mohini Singh has served on Kelowna City Council since 2011 and is seeking re-election in 2026. Before entering municipal politics, she spent 22 years working in broadcast journalism with CHBC and CBC in the Okanagan. Her community involvement has included founding the East Meets West Children’s Foundation and supporting organizations including the Kelowna Women’s Shelter, the MS Society and the Cancer Centre of the Southern Interior. She was invested into the Order of British Columbia in 2008.
Here are Mohini Singh’s responses.
OE: What made you decide to run for Kelowna City Council in 2026?
MS: Kelowna is a progressive city that is growing fast. We need to ensure we manage that growth carefully. With progress we also face challenges many we have been working on. I am grateful to say our crime rate is down but we have to keep the pressure to lower it. So far with all the work that we have done to address homelessness 125 people have made it off the streets and are now living independently. But there is more to do.
I would like to keep lobbying for a mandatory care centre to address the needs of people struggling with addictions. I also want to get the social services office in Rutland moved to an industrial area away from homes. When it comes to agriculture I would like us to consider avenues like agri tourism to give farmers a chance to get revenue they can depend on. Transportation is another big issue for our residents. Discussions for a second bridge have to start because this is not a small project and will take years to come to fruition. Finally I will continue for more green spaces, parks so we have a healthy green canopy.
OE: What are the three issues you believe should be priorities for the next council?
MS:
Homelessness and crime.
Affordable housing.
Climate and Agriculture.
OE: What experience or perspective would you bring to council?
MS: I have served since 2011 and what is valuable is experience. I bring a perspective which is one that understands the background of decisions that are being made, also I realize we have to make tough decisions some that are not easy to make but being experienced I have a clear vision of what needs to be done.
I also have a good understanding of the Agricultural sector and its needs. My goal has and is to build a strong, healthy and inclusive community. That is what I will always strive to do.
OE: What is one thing you want Kelowna residents to understand about you before they cast their ballots?
MS: In the last 15 years I have worked hard to create a healthy, inclusive community for people of all ages and backgrounds. I would like the public to know I will always remain at their service and strive for a better tomorrow. Kelowna is a fantastic city let’s keep it that way.
Explore the full Civic Series This interview is part of Okanagan Echo’s 2026 Civic Series featuring the women running for Kelowna City Council. Visit the main series page to read the profiles and responses from all 11 candidates.
Okanagan Echo thanks all participating candidates for sharing their time and perspectives with residents.
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