Darla Yonkman Runs For Vermilion Town CouncilLorna Hamilton

Darla Yonkman. Photo submitted

With Vermilion’s municipal election set for October 20, residents will see three familiar and seven new names on the ballot. Among the new candidates stepping forward is Darla Yonkman, who is running for Town Council for the first time.

Yonkman explained that while she has considered running for several years, the timing was finally right. “My work commitments lessened, and I finally had the time to give back,” she said. Encouraged by residents in the community, Yonkman emphasized that her decision came from a deep care for Vermilion’s future and sustainability for the next generation. With extensive experience serving on boards, she brings with her a strong understanding of governance and fiscal responsibility.

For Yonkman, the role of a councillor is about being a bridge between the residents and the decisions that shape daily life. She stressed the importance of listening to concerns, working collaboratively with fellow councillors, and ensuring transparency in decision-making so residents feel heard and represented.

Looking ahead, Yonkman envisions Vermilion growing thoughtfully while preserving the community spirit residents value. She hopes to see stronger support for small businesses, improved recreational and cultural spaces, and a focus on inclusivity across all age groups.

“If I could accomplish just one major change, it would be to strengthen the connection between the town and its residents,” she said. Yonkman believes that with greater collaboration and trust, Vermilion can better tackle challenges and support initiatives that keep the community strong.

She identified Vermilion’s biggest challenge as balancing current needs with long-term planning. That includes managing budgets carefully, ensuring affordable housing and lots for growth, maintaining infrastructure, and continuing to support both established and new businesses. At the same time, she emphasized the imperative importance of community engagement so that residents have a real voice in shaping Vermilion’s future.

Her guiding principles include honesty, accountability, integrity, fairness, and collaboration. “My focus is always on the bigger picture and finding solutions that benefit Vermilion,” she explained. Yonkman also highlighted empathy as a key factor in balancing personal beliefs with community needs.

When asked about how she would engage residents, especially those less likely to speak up, Yonkman said she plans to be approachable, visible at community events, and proactive in seeking input through forums, surveys, and direct outreach. “My goal is to make it easy for everyone to share their ideas and concerns so that every voice is heard.”

She also spoke about the need for transparency and accountability, saying that decisions should be clearly explained to residents, with accessible agendas, minutes, and updates. In her view, effective councils are built on respect, cooperation, and open dialogue. She hopes to bring empathy and a collaborative spirit to council discussions, keeping community priorities at the forefront.

Above all, Yonkman takes pride in Vermilion’s close-knit, supportive nature. “I am most proud of Vermilion’s strong sense of community,” she said. Her goal is to protect that identity while encouraging thoughtful growth that enhances the town’s welcoming spirit.

At the end of her term, Yonkman said she would measure her success not just by completed projects, but by the trust she has built with residents and the positive impact on the community. “If people feel represented, engaged, and proud of Vermilion’s growth, then I will consider my term a true success.”