VIDEO: Charlie Hodge seeks another term on Kelowna City Council despite health concerns

He was first elected in 2008, and again in 2014 and 2018.

Now Charlie Hodge says he's ready for four more years.

"Because I love my city and I love the job and I love the challenge," said Hodge.

He's running despite his frail health.

As far back as 2019, Hodge told KelownaNow he didn't expect to live to see the end of his term in office.

"I learned a long time ago that you can't count me out," he said.

"I feel I can do the job, especially now that we can do Zoom etc. etc. if I'm not feeling well I can do that."

Even as he did the interview, Hodge is accompanied by an oxygen tank.

But he said that doesn't stop him.

"The job really maintains sitting at a desk and arguing with people and I can argue all day long." *

Hodge has a reputation for voting against motions that have support from his fellow councillors. And he's okay with that.

"I've been called lone wolf, all my career," he said with a smile.

And he said his persona resonates with the common man (or woman).

"I represent the average Joe or Jane," he said.

Hodge wants to remain on council to see the new Parkinson Recreation Centre project to completion.

"I want to help with Rutland and with the north end," he added. "Some great changes coming for the north end and the Tolko area, I want to be a part of that."

He's proud of council's efforts to address homelessness and happy to see the recent provincial announcement on complex care beds.

"Up to 20 beds for people with mental health issues," said Hodge, "and I think that's just fantastic."

He's not opposed to high-rise development but believes we can do better on where they're permitted to go.

"I've always believed we should have a horseshoe-shaped design where the higher buildings are at the back," Hodge said.

Whether or not he has a place on the new council is up to the voters.

To check out all of the candidates, visit KelownaVotes 2022.

Decision day is Oct. 15.