A “hard-hitting champion of social justice” has announced her candidacy as councillor in the upcoming City of Penticton election.
Marie Prior, a long-time Penticton resident, worked 25 years as a banker and 20 years as a cognitive behavioural therapist.
“I am entering the election to shake up the status quo,” said Prior. “I want to bring a bit of fresh air and shake up the situation that is going on now. I believe we need more contact with the community. I think it is important to have more conversations and get input from the community.”
Among the top issues Prior wants to address as a councillor are social housing, seniors issues and policing. Prior said she plans to explore solutions and implement modular and pre-fab units of housing where feasible. She also wants to plan for adequate services for the growing seniors demographic and work in co-operation with the RCMP to improve life conditions. She said of concern is the downtown area and better response and respectful communication.
Prior has been married for over 50 years and has two sons and four grandchildren. Born in the U.K., her family moved to Canada in 1968. After retiring in the Okanagan, she devoted herself to providing professional counselling in her private practice for many years and writing advice columns for local newspapers. She prides herself in service to the community having volunteered for numerous organizations including Discovery House, Birthright and for other social programs.
Prior said she enjoys outdoor activities, and maintains her love for music. She recently became a member of the Penticton Tuneagers choir and continues to play bass guitar for her church.