OLDS — If all goes well, mayor Mike Muzychka only has to self-isolate for another week or so after testing positive for COVID-19.
The town confirmed Muzychka's condition in an email to The Albertan.
“The CAO (chief administrative officer Michael Merritt) has spoken directly with Mayor Muzychka and he has confirmed that he tested positive for COVID-19," the email said.
“Mayor Muzychka developed symptoms on Saturday, August 14 and is following AHS (Alberta Health Services) COVID protocols.”
On Monday, Aug. 23, town council held its first council meeting after taking a summer break. Town officials said Muzychka planned to attend council meetings via Zoom.
“We all wish him a speedy recovery and will respect his privacy while he is convalescing,” an email sent by the town to The Albertan said.
They also said the mayor’s illness “was a contributing factor” in a decision to cancel a town hall meeting planned for Aug. 19.
The purpose of that meeting was to discuss the town’s plans regarding the future of Olds Institute for Community and Regional Development (OICRD, or OI) and plans to turn O-NET, the community-owned internet, TV and phone service into municipally-owned corporation.
As of press time, no replies had been received to Albertan messages to Muzychka and town officials asking how and where they believe he may have contracted the disease and whether he has been vaccinated.
Aug. 14 is also the date Muzychka officially launched his campaign for re-election to the mayor's position via social media. The municipal council and school board trustee election is scheduled for Oct. 18.
He filed his nomination papers early in the year.
“Although I had put my nomination papers in a while ago, I am now officially launching my campaign,” Muzychka wrote.
“It has been an honour to serve as your mayor for the past four years; so much so that I would like to do it for four more. I hope to hear from every resident of Olds about your concerns, needs and wants.”
Muzychka became mayor by acclamation during the 2017 election when incumbent mayor Judy Dahl withdrew from the race.
