Board of Directors
We would like to acknowledge the time and commitment to downtown that our volunteer board of directors provides. We would not be able to do the work we do without them!
Our board operates under a governance board model. Our operations are guided and managed by our Executive Director.
2026/27 Board Chair:
Jessie Lens
Lush Beauty Boutique
2026/27 Vice-Chair:
Kristen Blackwood
Blackwood Beauty Studio
2026/27 Secretary:
Erin Trott
Shoppers Drug Mart
2026/27 Treasurer:
Michelle Chestnut
The Happy Bookkeeper
2026/27 Director:
Krista Harvey
BGC Williams Lake Club
Staff
Executive Director:
Sherry Yonkman
Sherry moved to Williams Lake in 2008 and has been a very active volunteer in the community. Strongly believing in supporting local businesses and organizations, she was very excited to join Downtown Williams Lake BIA in 2021. Getting to know the amazing people in the downtown community has been the best part of working in this office. With her family now grown, Sherry has more time for exploring the beautiful lakes, trails and golf courses that the Cariboo offers.
Program Manager:
Carol Gagne
Carol joined our team in May 2026, taking charge of our Clean Team and social media. She moved to Williams Lake in 2023, coming to the Cariboo to be closer to extended family. She is a hard-working, busy entrepreneur who has quickly become a valued member of our Downtown Williams Lake family, meeting business owners and learning what our beautiful downtown has to offer.
Clean Team
Ed Leblanc & Harry Sutcliffe
Our 2026 Clean Team is a hard-working duo who have both lived in Williams Lake for many years. Harry was our very first Clean Team member when we started the program in August 2024, and Ed joined us in March 2025. Our downtown streets are cleaner and safer, and these guys are the reason.
Official Greeter
Layla the office dog.
Layla joined our staff in October 2025, and she has made it her mission to greet everyone who comes through our front door. Her passions include running at full speed, chewing many things, and belly rubs.
Partners
Financial Support through Grants & Sponsorships
