As he was acclaimed Thursday to a fourth consecutive term as Regional District of Central Kootenay chair, John Kettle wished for a year without disasters.
"We need a break," Kettle said, pointing to this year's Lemon Creek fuel spill and last year's deadly landslide at Johnsons Landing. "That set us back. We need to catch up on policies and procedures — everything we've put on hold. Finally we're going to get some normal time for our staff and senior managers."
Kettle, who represents rural Creston, was first elected in 2002 and has been chair since 2010. The board decides on the position each December, and Kettle thanked his fellow directors for their vote of confidence.
"I really appreciate it. It is a hard job," he said. "This is a pretty good board. These are very bright people. But you have to manage the regional district's business so everyone's going in the same direction. That's what I try to do. Some days it's harder than others."
Meanwhile, Castlegar mayor Lawrence Chernoff was elected vice-chair over incumbent Hillary Elliott of Slocan. The vote was a tie, so the winner was chosen by drawing a name out of a box.