OLDS — The departure of five former council members was formally recognized during council’s Nov. 8 meeting.
As per a Town of Olds policy, former mayor Michael Muzychka (2017-2021) along with former councillors Debbie Bennett (2010-2021), Mary Jane Harper (2007-2021), Mary Anne Overwater (2013-2021) and Mitch Thomson (2020-2021) were formally recognized for their service to the town.
The motion also wished them “all the best in their future endeavours.”
Bennett, Harper and Thomson chose not to run again in the Oct. 18 municipal election. Overwater was not re-elected.
Muzychka was acclaimed to the post during the 2017 municipal election when Dahl withdrew her nomination papers. However, he too was not elected on Oct. 18.
Acting chief administrative officer Doug Wagstaff told council that as per policy, each of those former council members has received the remuneration owed to them.
He also said that when chief administrative officer Michael Merritt returns from vacation, a dinner and parting gift will be provided for them and Merritt plans to meet with each one.
“I think it’s a good time to thank them all for their dedication and commitment – at least my last four-year term and the time that they’ve all spent serving the Town of Olds,” Coun. Wanda Blatz said.
“Absolutely,” said mayor Judy Dahl.
Coun. Heather Ryan agreed.
“It was a pleasure serving with all of these individuals,” she said. “And certainly the history that Mary Jane Harper had brought to council is going to be sorely missed.”
