Council members take oaths of office

Maple Creek News-Times

Marcus Day

The first meeting of Maple Creek’s new Town council saw a swearing-in ceremony and the announcement of committee appointments.
Wearing face masks, Michelle McKenzie, the mayor, and Councillors Betty Abbott, Len Barkman, Corrine Collura, Al Fournier, Cara Teichroeb and Jill Roy took oaths of office, reading from a prepared text.
Afterwards, McKenzie welcomed the new team, saying she was excited to start another four-year adventure.
“I believe we can achieve greatness,” she said.
McKenzie applauded two stalwarts from the previous council, Barry Elderkin and Ellaine Hawrylak, who had decided against contesting this month’s municipal election, for their service. She also thanked Michael Morrow, who did not win re-election.
Near the end of the hour-long meeting, the “Mayor and Councillors Forum” was dominated by expressions of thanks to the voters and statements of intent.
Councillor Barkman, a new face on council — along with daughter, Corrine, Fournier and Abbott — said he was looking forward to the challenge ahead and pledged to try to keep the interests of the town foremost in his mind.
“I am thankful for the people who came out to vote,” he said.
Councillor Teichroeb said now was the time for council members to engage in team building.
“I am looking forward to an exciting adventure,” she said.
Councillors Abbott and Fournier spoke of the steep learning curve facing them.
Abbott said she was both excited and nervous, while Fournier voiced hopes of making a difference.
Coun. Roy said she had found the post-election training session in the Town Hall very valuable.
“I would like to thank the voters for re-electing me,” she said.
Coun. Collura said she felt thankful to be at the meeting and part of a “wonderful team.”
McKenzie then announced the names of those on the six committees of council — three councillors are on each committee, and the mayor is on all of them.

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