Years of Public Works to Council Chambers: Frank Zandvliet Announces Osoyoos Candidacy

Local Osoyoos resident Frank Zandvliet Announces Osoyoos Candidacy

OSOYOOS — After decades of working behind the scenes to keep the town running—and lighting up the skies above Lake Osoyoos every July—Frank Zandvliet is stepping out of the operations yard and into the political arena.

Zandvliet officially announced his candidacy for Town Councillor in the upcoming October municipal election, framing his campaign not as a pivot into politics, but as a natural continuation of a lifetime spent serving the community.

"I am not and have never been a politician," Zandvliet said. "I'm your neighbour who's rolled up his sleeves for this community for years." A Deep Well of Municipal Experience

A born-and-raised Osoyoos resident, Zandvliet brings a rare insider’s perspective to the municipal race. For 33 years, he served the Town in Public Works, working his way up into various senior roles. His extensive resume covers infrastructure maintenance, systems processes and procedures, sustainable resource management, and operational solutions and strategies.

Because of this background, Zandvliet says his platform is built on practical, ground-level priorities rather than lofty campaign rhetoric. If elected, his primary areas of focus will be:

Water and Sewer Infrastructure: Leveraging his decades of hands-on knowledge regarding the town's operating systems and daily operations to tackle critical utility challenges.

Fiscal Responsibility: Implementing strict cost controls where possible and ensuring taxpayer dollars are managed with extreme care.

Accessibility and Transparency: Committing to an open-door policy for every resident and business owner to hear their concerns, even on unpopular matters.

"I have decades of experience in Public Works, with considerable knowledge of the Town's infrastructure, budgets, and daily operations," Zandvliet noted, adding that he is a firm advocate for council transparency and thorough dispute resolution for taxpayers. The Man Behind the Fireworks

For most residents, however, Zandvliet’s name is synonymous with celebration. For over 25 years, he has organized and spearheaded the community's legendary Canada Day fireworks displays.

With the help of dedicated volunteers and widespread community support, Zandvliet helped build what has widely become recognized as one of the most enjoyed small-town fireworks shows in Canada. The annual event draws tens of thousands of visitors and residents to the shores of Lake Osoyoos, providing a major boost to local tourism revenues while creating lifelong memories.

Zandvliet plans to channel that same community-building energy into his vision for the town's future, aiming to increase tourism revenues, encourage volunteerism, and elevate local spirit. Looking Ahead

As the October election approaches, Zandvliet is positioning himself as a candidate focused on responsible governance, sustainable water use, and practical infrastructure maintenance.

"So, let's work together to build an even better Osoyoos," Zandvliet said, noting that community support will be vital as he transitions from municipal employee to civic leader.

You can contact frank at zandvlietfrank64@gmail.com