Irricana residents will head to the polls for the second time this year on May 12 to fill another vacant council seat following the resignation of former Irricana mayor Valerie Squires March 7.
It’s been a period of change on Irricana council. Squires’ resignation follows a previous byelection on Feb. 11 that saw Frank Friesen replace Laura Thiessen, while former Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Geoff Stephenson’s contract was terminated March 2.
“Everybody expects a period of stability (now),” Interim CAO Dawn Mosondz said. “We all hope we’re looking at a positive future.”
Nomination day for Squires’ council seat is scheduled for April 7. Dennis Tracz will serve as deputy mayor and will act in the mayor’s absence until the election, at which point the Town will determine which councillors will serve those roles.
Tracz did not return requests for comment by press time.
Mosondz said she was “not sure” whether she would take on the role as permanent CAO.
“Council is looking for a CAO, (looking) for the right candidate,” she said. “You never know when you’ll find the right candidate.”
Nomination packages for the vacant councillor seat can be picked up at the Town office. Nominations will be accepted from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. on April 7.
Following a 24-hour eligibility review, a notice of election will be called if more than one nomination is put forward.
