Introducing the 2026–2030 Village of Harrison Hot Springs Council
A new Council term is underway! The Village of Harrison Hot Springs welcomed its 2026–2030 Council at the Inaugural Council Meeting held Monday, November 2, 2026, at Memorial Hall.
The evening marked the beginning of a new four-year term and brought together members of the community, Village staff and local representatives to recognize this important occasion.
A Memorable Evening
The inaugural meeting began with a special procession featuring bagpiper Dan McDermid, accompanied by Sgt. Darryl Peppler of the RCMP and Harrison Hot Springs Fire Chief Curtis Genest. The Cascadians followed with a performance of O Canada.
The evening also included a presentation recognizing outgoing Council members Leo Facio, Allan Jackson, Mark Schweinbenz and Michie Vidal.
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The Village extends its sincere appreciation to each of the outgoing members for their service, time and contributions to the community. Serving in local government is an important commitment, and their involvement has helped shape the Village throughout their respective terms.
Thank you for your dedication to Harrison Hot Springs and its residents.
Meet Your 2026–2030 Village Council
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The Village is pleased to introduce the members of the 2026–2030 Council. Get to know your Mayor and Councillors, learn a little about their backgrounds and discover what they bring to their roles as elected representatives.
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Mayor Fred Talen
Fred retired from his career with the Public Service of the Northwest Territories in 2021, where his work involved negotiating modern treaties with Indigenous Peoples in the NWT. Following retirement, Fred and his family moved to Harrison Hot Springs, a community that offered what they were looking for: a warm, welcoming place on the shores of Harrison Lake. In 2024, Fred saw an opportunity to bring his experience in conflict resolution, negotiations and government to the community and ran for Mayor in a by-election. He has enjoyed serving as Mayor over the past two years and contributing positively to Harrison Hot Springs. Fred looks forward to getting to know and working with the new Council.
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Councillor Susan Galvao
Susan Galvao has had the incredible opportunity to call Harrison Hot Springs home for many years. Here in Harrison Hot Springs she can be found giving her time and effort with multiple committees, clubs and volunteer organizations. Her decision to run for council was a continuation of a desire to contribute to the community. She wants to continue the conversations with residents and to help to make decisions that shape our village. Listening, learning and collaboration are keys to effective governance. Susan is excited to work alongside Mayor, Council and Village Staff to bring this vision to life. When outside of Council, you will find Susan enjoying the beauty and wonderment of our village and surrounding areas, volunteering, and enjoying all of what our community has to offer.
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Councillor Stewart Pritchard
For Stewart Pritchard, Harrison Hot Springs is where family, work and community come together. A resident for approximately 13 years, he lives here with his wife, Tiffany, and their two daughters. His background in hospitality and wine has taken him across Canada and abroad, while his involvement with Morgan’s Bistro and coaching minor soccer have connected him with local families and businesses. Stewart was inspired to run for Council by a desire to bring people together and help make practical, informed decisions about Harrison’s future. He believes residents deserve approachable representatives who listen, ask questions and explain their decisions. He looks forward to working with Council, staff and residents to strengthen emergency preparedness, protect natural spaces and support a welcoming village for all ages. Stewart brings a sense of humour, a willingness to learn and a commitment to respectful conversation.
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Councillor Michael Warn
Mike appreciates the unique character of Harrison Hot Springs, its natural beauty, and the sense of community that makes the village such a special place to call home. He believes in common sense, honesty, accountability, and treating people with respect. He also believes that experience matters, that people deserve to be heard, and that decisions affecting the community should be made carefully and responsibly, with consideration for future generations. Mike understands the importance of building a community where future generations can thrive. He wants his children, grandchildren, and their generation to enjoy a safe, welcoming, and vibrant Harrison Hot Springs—a community where people care about one another and where the village’s character and quality of life are protected.
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Councillor Landry Winkles
Landry Winkles is a Registered Massage Therapist and small business owner. She grew up visiting Harrison with her family before eventually choosing to make the Village her home. Outside of her professional life, she is an avid rugby player and has spent much of her life involved in sports through playing, coaching, and volunteering. Landry was inspired to run for Council by her desire to contribute to the community's future and bring a fresh perspective to local leadership while respecting the traditions that make Harrison special. She is passionate about responsible growth, protecting Harrison's natural environment, and ensuring the Village remains a welcoming place for all generations. During her term, Landry looks forward to collaborating with fellow Council members, Village staff, and residents. She is committed to listening to diverse perspectives, making thoughtful, evidence-based decisions, and helping shape Harrison's future.
Staying Connected with Council
Village Council provides leadership, establishes policies and priorities, and makes decisions on behalf of the municipality. Residents are encouraged to stay informed, follow Council meetings and learn more about the decisions and initiatives shaping Harrison Hot Springs.
Visit the harrisonhotsprings.ca to find Council meeting agendas, minutes, contact information and other municipal updates.
Budget 2027 – Have Your Say!
Share your priorities with Council! The Village of Harrison Hot Springs is inviting you to learn more about municipal budgeting and share your priorities for the year ahead.
Visit the Budget 2027 page and complete the early input survey by November 24. Your feedback will be shared with Council to help inform their understanding of community priorities.
Take a few minutes to learn, explore and share what matters to you! Visit getintoitharrison.ca/budget-2027