2 experienced candidates running for mayor of Inuvik, N.W.T.

Inuvik’s 2024 mayoral race will pit former mayor Peter Clarkson, left, who served 3 consecutive terms as mayor, against the incumbent Clarence Wood, right, who just served his 1st term and was a town councillor for almost 2 decades. (Dez Loreen/CBC)

By Dez Loreen, RCI, CBC News

Inuvik’s mayoral race will pit a former mayor who served three consecutive terms against the incumbent, who just served his first term and was a town councillor for almost two decades.

The incumbent, Clarence Wood, says he’s running again because he wants to continue to be a part of the town’s growth.

“I want to build on what we have accomplished in the last three years,” said Wood.

“If you look around town you will see a thriving community now, for the first time in a long time. I want to keep that going and build on the relationships I have made.”

The term for mayor is now three years. When Peter Clarkson was in the position between 2000 and 2006, the term was two years.

Clarkson said he wants to bring Inuvik back to a place of prosperity and increase the community profile at the territorial and national levels.

“I think we have definitely had a downturn in the economy in the last 18 years; it’s been 18 years since I was mayor. We have had a downturn, but I think we are ready for a turnaround,” said Clarkson.

Sixteen people are on the ballot for eight town council seats. Both Clarkson and Wood noted the high number of candidates who are interested in sitting on council.

“I think it’s fantastic,” said Wood. “That’s the most I can ever remember. I think the highest before was around 13 [candidates] so that’s great more people want to take part, and more power to them.”

Clarkson also said he was impressed with the number of people running for council.

“We’ve got the opportunity to put together a great council and I think all 16, by putting their names forward, want to make a contribution to Inuvik,” said Clarkson.

He hopes those who don’t get voted in will stay involved in the community.

“Eight will be elected, eight won’t be, but we will still need those other eight that aren’t elected to work on committees and help work to make Inuvik a great place,” Clarkson said.

Election day in Inuvik is Oct. 21.