The new Foothills County Council is set to be sworn in and have its first organizational meeting of the term on Oct. 28.
Two new faces will join the group following the Oct. 18 election – Don Waldorf in Division 6 and Barb Castell in Division 3. Division 7 representative RD McHugh was also re-elected, alongside Rob Siewert in Division 1, Delilah Miller in Division 2, Suzanne Oel in Division 4 and Alan Alger in Division 5, all of whom were all acclaimed to their positions.
“We are very grateful to have the opportunity to serve Foothills County,” Oel said ahead of the swearing in.
She added a message of thanks to the individuals who put their names forward for the open positions in Divisions 3, 6 and 7.
Prior to the election, six councillors were representing Foothills County, following the passing of long-time councillor and former reeve Larry Spilak in November of last year.
Oel also said the group sends their best wishes to Jason Parker, who retired from service this year.
County CAO Ryan Payne said that the day will begin with all seven councillors being sworn in and declaring the oath of office, followed by a brief from the municipality's lawyer to orientate the group to relevant documents, including the Municipal Government Act, in addition to the roles and responsibilities of council and administration.
The second half of the meeting will see the appointment of the reeve and deputy reeve, as well as the designation of committees.
Some of the issues at the front of mind for council this term, according to Oel, are getting a fair deal for the County in the Calgary Metropolitan Region Board or pulling out of the board, partnering with neighbouring communities for water and planning for improvements on Highway 2 and 2A.
Additionally, she said time will be devoted to taxes, tackling rural crime, ambulance issues, internet service and reducing red tape.
Prior to the Oct. 18 vote, Oel – who was just elected to her fourth term on council – served as reeve. Siewert served as the deputy reeve throughout the last four years and is now headed into his second term as the councillor for Division 1.
