Sun Peaks Mayor Al Raine. (Photo via TNRD)
Al Raine – the only person to ever serve as the Mayor of Sun Peaks – is stepping down.
The 82-year-old Raine says his decision comes about a month after he was diagnosed with a rare form of ALS called Bulbar ALS, which attacks the face, throat, and neck areas before moving on to the limbs.
“How fast it progresses is unknown as it is different between each individual,” Raine said, in an open letter to Sun Peaks residents. “Presently, I am not suffering and other than my weak voice and deteriorating speech, I am fine. Swallowing is restricted a little but still OK.”
“However, I am having difficulty with emotional control in face to face discussions. It’s caused by the ALS and is called emotional lability.”
In the letter, Raine says he did not make his diagnosis public right away as he had a number of personal events to attend to – including celebrations of life for his brother-in-law John and his former ski team manager, Ed Champagne, as well as his wife – former Senator and Olympic champion – Nancy Greene Raine’s birthday.
Nancy Greene Raine (right) poses with Al Raine and the Olympic torch during the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.
Raine, who was first elected as Sun Peaks mayor in 2010, says he will be meeting with specialists over the next few weeks, in the hopes that they will outline what he can expect in the months ahead.
“Obviously, the long-term outlook is not good. Over the next few months, I will work with council and municipal staff to make sure that there will be a smooth transition as I will have to step down as Mayor,” Raine said.
“I can accept my fate as I truly have lived a wonderful life and at 82, one is close to reaching the end. Enjoyed a wonderful winter skiing this year, 130+ days and no signs of weakness while skiing. Hope to enjoy some tennis this summer.”
Sun Peaks Chief Administrative Officer Deanna Campbell tells Radio NL while there are no firm timelines for Raine to step away from his duties on the village council, she says they have agreed to continue working on his priorities.
“Affordable housing, infrastructure expansion with our water and waste water, and First Nation reconciliation. Those initiatives and projects will still continue to be our focus even once he steps down,” Campbell said.
Speaking on NL Newsday, Campbell says she is currently working with Raine on transition plans.
“Of course its going to be a huge change and adjustment for the community when he leaves his role. He’s been the one and only Mayor of Sun Peaks since incorporation,” said Campbell. “He’s, of course, been instrumental in shaping what this community is today.”
According to the Sun Peaks Independent News, Councillor Julie Kimmel will serve as acting mayor and chair meetings in Raine’s place until June 30.
The next round of municipal elections in B.C. are scheduled for October 17, 2026.
“I want to be out and about in the community and I only have one request. Please no sad facial expressions or sympathy wishes, it is those gestures that will triggers my emotions,” Raine added, in his letter.
“Let’s just have some normal day to day discussions, pleased to hear your community thoughts and even your complaints but no expressions of sympathy.”
– With files from Paul James
