Mike Klassen won't rule out a byelection run for Vancouver city council

The former Vancouver city council candidate was being asked by the Straight if he’s ruled out running again if a byelection is called.

Of course, it’s early days to be talking about this. But there’s a steady buzz that a number of elected municipal officials with the ruling Vision Vancouver party are scanning the provincial horizon.

On the phone on Tuesday (May 15), Klassen singled out Vision councillor Geoff Meggs as someone who may want to run for the NDP in the next provincial election, in May 2013.

But Meggs first has to win the nomination from the NDP constituency association in Vancouver-Fairview, where he is said to be interested in running. He also has to be elected before the prospect of a council byelection becomes concrete.

“I haven’t seen any clear indications that things are going to change on that front,” Klassen said. “But like you, I’m hearing all the rumours that Meggs will be one of a few Vision candidates that will probably leap into the provincial pool.”

A communications and public affairs professional, Klassen placed 13th in the 2011 race for the 10 spots in council.

The proud Eastsider received the fourth-highest number of votes among the Non-Partisan Association candidates. Two NPA candidates got into council.

When asked if he’s preparing for a byelection run, Klassen gave a firm no as a response. He said he’s having fun doing what he does.

“My more immediate interest right now is my own work,” he said. “So that’s about as straight an answer as I can give you.”

Is he ruling out running in a byelection?

Klassen doesn’t like that one. “I’ve learned that when you’re in politics, once you say ‘never’ then it usually ends up coming back to bite you,” he said.

For now, Klassen is leaving it at that.