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Business owner runs for Mission council

District of Mission: Rhett Nicholson, candidate for council
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Rhett Nicholson is a candidate for Mission council.

A small business owner and volunteer wants to help lead the community he was raised in.

Rhett Nicholson, whose family owns Sue's Copy Place, connects with youth through the Junior Optimist Club, an organization he helped create, supports businesses and residents downtown, and wants to create a sustainable economy focussing on assets that already exist in Mission.

"Starting from scratch and trying to force economic growth is expensive, tiresome, and not sustainable," said Nicholson. "We have so much going for us in the way of entertainment, lifestyle, and our own geological gold mine."

He believes Mission already has a strong base for tourism and the district should focus on promoting activities like races at Mission Raceway Park, local festivals, sturgeon fishing, and other outdoor activities.

"Mission is a natural destination location," he explained. "We have the most amazing backyard and with the right leadership, we can expand on and capitalize from the breathtaking landscape that our community has to offer."

Nicholson lives and works downtown and believes it is a safe place to be, despite some social issues. He founded Missionfest, Mission's largest street festival, to help promote businesses and bring families to the area.

"There are hundreds of small businesses and thousands of downtown residents," said Nicholson. "Creating a fund and vibrant street will benefit our entire community."

Nicholson began working at his family's store at the age of 15 and currently works as a graphic designer and marketing specialist. He has received three Muse Awards from the Mission Cultural Resources Commission and is a member of the Optimist Club. He is a past board member for the Mission Downtown Business Association and is involved with the Mission Chamber of Commerce.

To learn more about Nicholson, visit rhettnicholson.com.