Meet your new Mayor and Council  for the 2024-2028 term

Going for left to right: Councillor Darwyn Lynn, Councillor Cud Eastbound, Mayor Stephen Johnson, Councillor Justine Hobbs, Councillor Tobias Graf

 Mayor Stephen Johnson

Stephen Johnson was born in Ottawa, Ontario and was raised on several RCAF bases including Namao, Winnipeg, Langar (near Nottingham, England), and Zweibrücken, Germany. Stephen attended high school in The Pas, Manitoba and went to Queen’s University where he studied Mine Engineering graduating with a BSc in 1974 and an MSc in 1980.

Stephen came to Dawson City from Kirkland Washington, USA in January 1999 to work as the Production Superintendent at the Brewery Creek Mine operation (“BCM”) some 70 km outside Dawson. With the downturn of gold price in the early 2000’s, BCM was forced to close and eventually most employees were laid off including the last senior person – Stephen in October of 2002. Stephen left Dawson for Ontario with thoughts of retiring there. After a few months of commiserating, Stephen and his wife Judith decided that the very best place to be to retire was Dawson City and returned in August 2003 when they bought their current house. They moved into their retirement home in September of 2003.

Retirement has never really taken hold as Stephen spent 3 years on the City of Dawson Planning Board and, later in 2009, was elected to his first of four 3-year terms on town council. After twelve (12) years on council, Stephen took a 3-year holiday from council only to run again and be elected to the position of mayor in October 2024. Also, since returning to Dawson, Stephen spent 9+ years on the Yukon Water Board.

Councillor Justine Hobbs

Justine Hobbs has called Dawson City home for over 12 years, living and working on the Traditional Territory of the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in. As a small business owner, Justine understands the value of local entrepreneurship and its role in building a thriving, resilient community.

Over the years, Justine has been deeply involved in Dawson’s tourism, arts, health, and education sectors. Her experience serving on volunteer boards and committees has allowed her to advocate for economic development, social well-being, and responsible stewardship of the land. She is passionate about fostering a community where everyone feels supported, connected, and heard.

Justine brings a collaborative, solutions-driven perspective to council. Her priorities include promoting transparency, creating opportunities for growth, and ensuring Dawson remains a vibrant, and inclusive place for all residents.

Councillor Tobias Graf

Councillor Darwyn Lynn

I am a Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in citizen and a proud member of the Dawson community. I am also honoured to be father to three amazing sons that my wife and I are raising in this wonderful town.

Councillor Cud Eastbound

Cud Eastbound lives off-grid across the Yukon River and is the owner-operator of a local design company. They moved to Dawson City in 2012 and have a strong affinity for community and grassroots organization. As a councillor, Cud is committed to improving access to information and ensuring that residents feel connected to local government. Recognizing the significant challenges Dawson City faces in housing, childcare, and public engagement, alongside concerns about supporting small businesses, Cud brings a creative, community-first perspective to the council. Their priorities include actively supporting local entrepreneurs, enhancing transparency, and working collaboratively to foster sustainable growth for the town's future.