Municipal elections

Buckhorn resident Robert Verkaik seeking Area D Director seat

Sep 17, 2026 | 12:52 PM

PRINCE GEORGE — Longtime Buckhorn resident and community volunteer Robert Verkaik is seeking a seat on the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George board, becoming one of six candidates vying to replace retiring Electoral Area D Director Bill Empey.

Verkaik says a desire to continue serving his community is what prompted him to enter the race.

“Same reason I volunteered at the firehouse,” he said. “If I can make a difference.”

A volunteer firefighter for several years, Verkaik has a history of community involvement. In addition to his work with the fire service, he has served on the board of the Buckhorn Sewer System during its construction and has also spent time on the local water board.

Unlike some candidates running on major policy platforms, Verkaik says he is generally satisfied with the direction Area D has taken under Empey’s leadership.

“Bill has been doing a really good job as far as I’m concerned,” he said.

With Empey stepping away from local politics, Verkaik believes his experience and commitment to the community make him a suitable candidate to continue the work already underway.

He says one of his biggest strengths is his ability to listen to residents and consider all sides of an issue before making decisions.

“I don’t take sides,” Verkaik said. “I listen to this side and that side, and I don’t judge people until I see what the facts are.”

Verkaik has lived in Buckhorn for nearly 30 years with his wife and family. While he originally considered Ontario home, he says that changed after settling in the Prince George area.

“After being in Buckhorn for a few years, Buckhorn is home now,” he said.

As the campaign moves forward, Verkaik says his message to voters is simple: regardless of who they support, he encourages residents to get out and vote and make their voices heard.