INNISFAIL – Since last October’s general municipal election, Jim Romane and Danny Rieberger have not given a whole lot of thought to their past work on town council.
They both retired. Both did a little bit of travelling. They relaxed and had fun.
But on March 28 Romane and Rieberger were called back to council. It was time for both to be honoured for their significant contributions to council and the Town of Innisfail.
“On behalf of council and administration and our staff it’s an honour to present you with a small token our appreciation for your service to our community,” said mayor Jean Barclay at the start of the March 28 regular council meeting, noting Romane served on council for 23 years, including two terms as mayor, while Rieberger completed two terms as town councillor. “You brought forth many important ideas and projects and always worked hard in making Innisfail a better place for all. Without doubt you have succeeded.
“Thank you for all you have done and will continue to do for Innisfail, and please know how much your service is appreciated,” added Barclay.
Following heartfelt applause from current council members, staff members and attending citizens, Romane and Rieberger were then presented with cards signed by all members of current council and administration.
They also received personalized coffee table books – both entitled A Seat On Council - that looked back at their time on council and in the community.
The coffee book gifts were spearheaded and created by Cara Cochrane, executive assistant to the chief administrative officer and council, and assisted and supported by current council members and staff colleagues.
Both offered their sincere thanks for the public acknowledgement of their service. Rieberger said being on council was a “rewarding experience," noting much was accomplished during his eight years but refusing to take any personal credit as it was all a team effort.
“You see the results in the wayfinding signage, skatepark project and a lot of the projects these guys (current council and staff) are working on we started on, and that’s how it works, everybody contributes,” said Rieberger. It was a great learning experience, and I recommend it to anybody.”
As for the moving individualized coffee table books, both later told the Albertan they were gifts they will always treasure.
“I was quite surprised at it. I wasn’t expecting anything monetary. I was hoping for something like this and it’s perfect. It’s something you can put on your mantle, and probably on your tombstone,” said Romane with a hearty chuckle. He added he’s enjoying retirement with wife Bev, and has been travelling, including a recent trip to Arizona to get in some golfing.
And while he might once in a while reminisce with satisfaction on his past council days, he does not miss the press.
“It’s kind of like COVID,” said Romane with another but more prolonged chuckle.
Rieberger called the book a “unique gift”, and one that was “very thoughtful and well appreciated.” He said while he will always be satisfied with his past council days, especially the camaraderie, he does not miss the meetings.
Instead, Rieberger is focusing on new retirement priorities, including serving as chair of the executive committee for the Innisfail Royal Canadian Legion Branch #104.
“I still have time to help out with the legion and a few other projects around town,” said Rieberger. “I spend some time in my wood shop, look after the grandkids, great-niece and have fun.”
