Nelson Police Board Director Karen Bennett
Provincial Appointment
Appointed July 14, 2025

Karen Bennett is a highly accomplished and dedicated professional with a diverse background in real estate, business ownership, publishing, and community leadership. Her career reflects a proven ability to excel in various roles, from owning and managing businesses to holding leadership positions in community organizations. She is committed to serving the public interest with integrity and accountability. Nelson natives, Karen and her husband chose to return to their roots to raise their family, and the community now enjoys the presence of four generations of family, a testament to her deep connection to the area. Karen's professional journey includes significant roles such as Owner/Realtor at Bennett Family Real Estate since 2021. Her entrepreneurial spirit is evident in the numerous businesses her family has owned. She also has extensive experience in the publishing industry, having served as Publisher of the Nelson Star and Regional Sales Director at Black Press, and owning Bennett Publishing which included several small community newspapers in the South Okanagan. Beyond her professional endeavors, Karen is deeply involved in her community. She has held numerous leadership positions, including Past President of the Nelson & District Chamber of Commerce, and is currently a Board Member of the Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy. Her involvement with the Nelson Rotary Club, where she has been a member and board member, spans many years. Additionally, she contributes to the Community Literacy Planning Committee. Her past community service includes board memberships with Touchstones (now the Nelson Museum & Art Gallery) and the Nelson & District Arts Council. Karen also spent many years volunteering with the Nelson Soccer Association as a coach and manager for her children’s teams. Karen's commitment extends to advocacy for mental health. With her family, they have taken a proactive role by initiating a community and school event focused on mental health awareness and have been involved with a national organization dedicated to this cause. Karen’s educational background includes a Leadership Diploma from Thompson Rivers University, and a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Victoria.  Karen is a dedicated professional with a diverse background and a deep-rooted love for her community of Nelson. Her extensive professional experience is complemented by a strong commitment to community involvement, demonstrated through numerous leadership roles and active participation in organizations focused on literacy, arts, and mental health advocacy.