Your Vote, Your Town: River Valley Podcast Sits Down With Lumsden’s Council Candidates

May 6, 2026

Dan Bernier

The Town of Lumsden’s upcoming municipal by-election is quickly approaching, and the next episode of the River Valley Podcast is giving listeners a chance to hear directly from the candidates hoping to earn your vote.

In this special election-focused episode, Bonnie Bernier sits down one-on-one with all three candidates running for the vacant council seat: Byron M. Tumbach, Natalie-Rose Haslund, and Tiffany Schaefer. Rather than campaign slogans or social media sound bites, listeners will hear personal conversations about why each candidate is running, what they believe they can bring to council, and how they see the future of Lumsden.

For many residents, local elections can sometimes feel smaller or less important than provincial or federal races. But in reality, town council decisions often have one of the biggest impacts on everyday life in the community. Issues involving roads, development, recreation, budgeting, infrastructure, bylaws, and long-term planning all begin at the municipal level. That’s why informed voting matters.

The River Valley Podcast encourages residents to take the time to learn about the candidates and participate in the democratic process. Whether you’ve lived in Lumsden your entire life or just recently moved to town, your vote helps shape the direction of the community for years to come.

Election Day for the Town of Lumsden by-election is set for Wednesday, May 20, 2026. Voting will take place at the Centennial Hall Lower Level from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. An advance poll will also be available on Monday, May 11, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Lumsden Municipal Office, located at 300 James Street North. Voters are reminded to bring proper identification.

Beyond the election coverage, the upcoming episode will feature another edition of “From the Files of Did You Know,” along with a new “Past, Present, and Proud” segment spotlighting Charlie Wong and his lasting connection to the community’s history.

Bonnie’s “Talk of the Town” segment will also feature an informative and engaging conversation with Lesia Matheson from the local gardening community, discussing gardening in the valley, community involvement, and the passion many residents share for keeping Lumsden beautiful and growing.

Listeners can also expect the latest town council news, community updates, and upcoming local events, continuing the River Valley Podcast’s mission of keeping the valley informed, connected, and involved.

The new episode will be available May 15th through the River Valley Podcast.

www.rivervalleypodcast.com