Rocky Viewís Division 3 Councillor Margaret Bahcheli was elected to the position of deputy reeve, filling a vacancy left by the tragic death of Councillor Rick Butler in a skiing accident in Kananaskis on Dec. 26.
The decision was made, Jan. 10, after a lengthy process that included discussions about the proper procedure and several votes to break a stalemate.
ìThe fact that this had to happen is sad and tragic,î said Bahcheli. ìI am honoured that council felt that I could fill his (Butlerís) shoes or at least bring a different set of talents to the table that would be of use to the County going forward.î
Three councillors, including Earl Solberg, Margaret Bahcheli and Greg Boehlke, were nominated to the position by their colleagues. The first vote narrowed the decision to Boehlke and Bahcheli, but a second vote resulted in a tie between the two.
Councillor Kim Magnuson suggested allowing each candidate to speak as to why they would make a good candidate for the job.
Bahcheli, a lawyer, said her training would help her in the role.
ìI see deputy reeve as being an executive position of sorts,î she said. ìI absolutely could and would rise to that position.î
Boehlke argued that his eight years of experience on council made him a good candidate.
ìI know the job, I know what the job entails, I know the municipality well,î he said. ìI have knowledge of procedures, knowledge of the county in general. I feel Iím your best bet for deputy reeve.î
After the nominated councillors were given the opportunity to speak, a third vote resulted in Bahcheli being named to the position.
ìI am now looking forward to working with the new Deputy Reeve Margaret Bahcheli,î said Reeve Rolly Ashdown. ìI would have been pleased to work with anyone council would have decided on.î
The Municipal Government Act mandates that a byelection to fill Butlerís council position must be completed within 90 days.
County staff will present a report on Jan. 24 giving recommendations on possible dates for the nomination and vote of a new Division 1 councillor.
ìWe will be looking for good nominees from Division 1, the area between Cochrane and Bragg Creek,î said Ashdown. ìRocky View welcomes any candidates that would have an interest.î
