Former Vernon mayor campaigns on affordability, public safety, local business, infrastructure and experienced leadership
VERNON, B.C. – Wayne Lippert is seeking a return to Vernon City Hall, running for mayor in the 2026 General Local Election.
Lippert is no stranger to the mayor’s office. He previously served as Mayor of Vernon from 2005 to 2011, and his 2005 election as mayor is recorded in the British Columbia Gazette.
Now, more than a decade after leaving the mayor’s chair, Lippert is asking Vernon voters to consider him again as the community prepares to choose its next municipal government on Saturday, October 17, 2026.
A former mayor looking to return
Lippert announced his 2026 mayoral campaign in August. Local reporting identifies him as a former mayor as well as a longtime community member who has operated a local hobby shop, worked as a mechanic and served as a director of the Vernon Fish and Game Club. He is also described as a husband, father and grandfather.
His campaign presents his previous experience at City Hall as one of the central arguments for his candidacy, emphasizing fiscal responsibility, collaboration and experienced municipal leadership. Those are campaign positions, rather than independent assessments of his previous administration.
What Wayne Lippert says he would prioritize
Lippert’s campaign platform currently identifies seven areas of focus.
Respect for taxpayers
His campaign says it wants to optimize municipal spending, reduce waste and keep affordability in mind when the City makes financial decisions.
Safer streets
Lippert is calling for greater attention to public safety, including community policing and approaches intended to address underlying causes of crime.
Supporting local businesses
His platform calls for reducing red tape and simplifying municipal processes that affect Vernon’s small businesses.
Infrastructure and future growth
The campaign says Vernon needs continued investment in essential infrastructure while preparing for growth without losing the community’s character.
Long-term water security
Lippert identifies reliable water resources and long-term water management and planning as another priority.
Families and seniors
His platform calls for access to recreation and community services that support residents at different stages of life.
City Hall leadership
Lippert is campaigning on his previous municipal experience and says he wants to strengthen stability, transparency and confidence in City Hall.
Officially listed in Vernon’s mayoral race
As of this publication, the City of Vernon officially lists Wayne Lippert under Mayor Candidates, alongside Kari Gares. The City’s page also links to Lippert’s campaign website and Facebook presence.
There is an important distinction at this stage of the election: Vernon’s nomination period remains open until 4 p.m. on September 11, when the declaration of candidates takes place. The withdrawal deadline follows on September 18.
Vernon votes October 17
Vernon voters will elect one mayor and six councillors to City Council, along with four School District No. 22 trustees, on October 17.
Advance voting is scheduled for October 7 and October 14, with voting available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The City also provides a vote-by-mail option for eligible voters.
With nominations still underway, Vernon’s mayoral field could continue to develop before the September 11 deadline.
Candidate information
Wayne Lippert, candidate for Mayor of Vernon in the 2026 municipal electionCandidate: Wayne Lippert
Office sought: Mayor of Vernon
2026 status: Listed by the City of Vernon as a mayoral candidate; nomination period remains open
Previous public office: Mayor of Vernon, 2005–2011
Campaign website: Wayne Lippert for Vernon Mayor
Campaign email: lippertformayor@gmail.com
Financial Agent: Lydia Russ
