Council Bios

Mayor - Gerry Taft
Born in Invermere British Columbia in 1982, Gerry Taft started his business career selling lego in his grade three classroom, and his political career began in a class council in grade 5. Since that time, Gerry has been involved in all kinds of business endeavors and political adventures. At the age of 17 he started his first "successful" business, selling hotdogs, and at age 20 he ran for and was elected to Invermere town council.

Gerry has served two full terms on District of Invermere council, and this November was elected Mayor, at the age 26. Gerry owns and operates a busy cafe, which features 'homemade' gelati and strong espresso.

At a young age, Gerry was known to write letters to the editor and comment on local affairs. What started out as a right-wing and simplistic views of an adolescent, with experience, an open mind, and a strong set of "common sense" has resulted in a balanced perspective, and a keen interest in all issues, including the environment and the social.

Gerry is unmarried, but has recently acquired a fluffy puppy. The puppy like long walks (or runs) on the beach (or anywhere else), and enjoys bones, toys, and drinking from the toilet.


Ray Brydon
Ray was elected to Council November 2005. Ray is retired and previously worked in the banking and retail sector. He has been active in the Invermere business community for several years. He is a former president of the Invermere Business Association and presently an active member of the Lake Windermere District Lions club and Columbia Valley Rockies Hockey Club. Ray’s goals are; to establish a long term growth development plan for both residential and downtown, a long term plan for infrastructure renewal and future growth, and create a plan for park and green space development.


Bob Campsall
Bob was first elected to council in 1996 and is currently serving his third term. He is strong pro - BC and pro - Canadian learning. He is active environmentally with particular concerns for long-term biodiversity, sustainability and quality of life. Fiscal responsibility is a priority for Bob. In 2005 Bob will serve on the following committees: Planning and Recreation, Public Works and Safety and will chairs the Personnel committee. Bob is a retired School Administrator.


Spring Hawes
I've lived and worked in Invermere for the past 9 years. I've always loved the outdoors, gardening, and living an active lifestyle. My love of life and nature has made me a strong supporter of the environment.

For many of those 9 years, I was a single parent, and I learned the meaning of the phrase 'It takes a village to raise a child'. My experiences as a single parent have given me intimate and practical knowledge of the challenges often faced by women in our society.

Since moving to Invermere, I have owned and run Spring Health Foods (formerly Mustard Seed Health Foods) to support my family. My years as an entrepreneur and employer have given me an understanding of what supports businesses need to be successful.

My decision to become involved in the Organic Food and Natural Health Products industry was based on two things. One: I grew up in a very health-conscious family, where I learned to appreciate good, fresh food, and value the growers who produce it. Two: I lived in Saskatchewan for several years as an adult, and observed the agricultural practices most commonly used in grain production on the Canadian prairies. My exposure to 'modern day' farming helps me to understand the importance of sustainability in all aspects of our community.

Several years ago, I sustained a serious spinal cord injury. The support this community showed me and my family was extraordinary! I feel extremely lucky to live in a place where the citizens throw themselves whole-heartedly behind their neighbors in their time of need. My time as a 'differently-abled' person has given me a great awareness of social issues such as affordable, accessible housing, transportation and employment, and access to appropriate health care in Invermere.

I currently serve as President of A.C.E. (the Columbia Valley's access committee). We work with local government to promote more accessible communities for all. I also represent A.C.E. on the Columbia Valley Transit Action Committee, a group which has been instrumental in bringing the BC Transit Community Bus to the valley, and which continues to provide input. I am a member of the Invermere Business Committee and the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce.

I would like to contribute to my community in a meaningful way. I feel that my varied life experiences give me a personal understanding of many of the community issues that Invermere is currently grappling with. I bring a balanced, caring, and responsible voice to the debate, along with my love of the people, and pride in my Community. Read more about me, and give me your comments and opinions at:
Spring-Hawes-Invermere.blogspot.com
. You can also reach me by e-mail, at spring@springhealthfoods.com,
or call me at 250-342-2552. I look forward to hearing from you.


Al Miller
Born in Fergus Ontario in April 1954. Attended Fergus & District High School.
Worked for Homehardware head office from 72-81. Moved to the West to manage Home stores in Westlock and Ponoka Alberta before moving to Chase and onto Invermere B.C. in 1988.Purchased the Invermere Homehardware Building Centre in 1993. Currently involved in 2nd term of Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce as President.
Current President of Columbia Valley Rockies Hockey club. Al & wife Lucy have two sons Joshua and Tim and one daughter Sarah.



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