2026 Municipal Election: Meet the Houston mayoral candidates

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published on Friday, Oct. 9, 2026.

The Municipal Election will be held on Saturday, Oct. 17.

My Bulkley Lakes Now attempted to contact each candidate running for Mayor in Houston for their responses to the following five questions:

1. Can you provide a brief bio of yourself?
2. Why are you running for mayor of Houston, and what makes you the best candidate for the position?
3. What are the most important issues in Houston and how do you plan to address them?
4. What is your vision for Houston over the next four years?
5. Are there any final thoughts on any topic that you would like to share?

IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER (Last Name):

Shane Brienen (Incumbent):

My Bulkley Lakes Now reached out to Shane Brienen but did not receive a response prior to publication.

Lisa Mueller:

My name is Lisa Mueller and I am an Entrepreneur and Community Builder. Born and raised in the Cariboo, Chilcotin but have lived in the Northwest since 2008.

I have been a successful entrepreneur for the past 12 years, being heavily involved in promoting this area’s economic development through both Provincial and First Nations lead projects. And I am the Founder and Creator of Nation2Nation Events and the owner of Mueller Consulting Ltd.

I am passionate about building long-term relationships within our Community, Our First Nation Communities, Government and Industry to share their perspectives on economic development and find success together. Known for my ability to bring these leaders together to engage in meaningful and respectful dialogue. My focus is always on connecting people and being the bridge between these groups to build a stronger Economy for all. I work hard to bring the right stakeholders to the conversation.

Driven by my passion to see Industry, Government and First Nations more involved together in partnership and national economy, I felt compelled to create a platform for all these groups to share their perspectives on economic development and major projects. The inaugural Nation2Nation Forum was held in Terrace in November 2015 and continues as an annual forum.

Kyle Thomson:

My Bulkley Lakes Now was unable to obtain contact information for Kyle Thomson prior to publication.

2. Why are you running for mayor of Houston, and what makes you the best candidate for the position?

Lisa Mueller:

Having just served as a Council Member for the past 4 years, I have first-hand experience with and knowledge of both the challenges facing Houston as well as the opportunities. I feel I can provide the people with a new perspective and way forward to improving the issues and making the most of the possibilities, talents and potentials of our incredible District.

I am motivated to create change and grasp opportunities now. I will bring new energy and determination to this position.

One of my main motivations in running for Mayor is to provide the District of Houston with Hope of a brighter Future for our Community and Accountability.

3. What are the most important issues in Houston and how do you plan to address them?

Lisa Mueller:

Creating a more transparent Community:

I am not afraid to have the “Hard conversations”: In the events I put on with my business, as a Councillor and in my personal life, I don’t shy away from talking about the real issues in a truthful way. Ensuring that Mayor and Council improve communication with the People of Houston, truly hearing your voices and implementing the solutions you bring forward is of the utmost importance to me.

Stronger Relationships:

As can be seen from my own business ventures, I’m all about creating stronger relationships. This holds true for our community members, for the businesses in our area, whether small, medium or large, and for creating meaningful connections to different levels of government, Industry and First Nations. I will actively work on making these relationships work for the good of our community.

Diversify our approach:

I believe we need to look at our industries from a perspective of potential partnership. For example, between our Mining and Forestry sectors. I want to diversify our economy and how we get our feet back under us. I want to bring out voices that showcase our community and its resources. I also want to create a vibrant campaign that promotes others to come live here, open business and make Houston their new home.

Representing and Advocating:

I believe in advocating for those in need and making our community a safer place to live. I will focus on:

• Seniors and Services
• Crime and Safety
• Local business employment

4. What is your vision for Houston over the next four years?

Lisa Mueller:

To make Houston a place to come live, build a business and make your Community. Attracting new growth.

5. Are there any final thoughts on any topic that you would like to share?

Lisa Mueller:

(Editor’s Note: Candidate had no further comments.)

Editor’s Note: My Bulkley Lakes Now would like to thank the two candidates for taking the time to respond to our questions. Reading their responses should better prepare each voter for the candidate of their choice.

Voting stations will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17, at the Houston Community Hall.

Listen to The Moose or The River in Houston for results on election night.

Results will also be posted on this website.