Mesheau calls for citizen engagement, collaboration and compromise, as new council takes office
Last night at town hall, a new council and mayor were sworn in to serve for the next four years in Sackville. A small group of staff and supporters gathered in council chambers to witness the ceremony, and the event was livestreamed online.
Hear highlights of the ceremony as reported on Tantramar Report:
CAO Jamie Burke was on hand to offer certificates to those leaving council this year, including retired mayor John Higham, retired councillor Joyce Neill, and former deputy mayor Ron Aiken.
Aiken was invited to make some opening remarks at the ceremony. He thanked former mayor John Higham for his help as Aiken took over mayoral duties upon Higham’s retirement. He also thanked Joyce O’Neill, and the town’s staff.
“People don’t realize it, but this is a very hardworking, dedicated group of people that we’re quite privileged to have,” said Aiken. “Thanks for everything you do. I know you all work harder and more effectively than a lot of people realize.”
After joking that his previous colleagues “will ignore me anyway”, Aiken addressed the three new councillors in the room, Sabine Dietz, Matt Estabrooks, and Ken Hicks.
“This can be very difficult job to do,” said Aiken. “Please remember to take the job seriously, but not yourself seriously. You are but one voice in a town of 5000. So it’s a good thing to stay humble with this.”
Aiken offered his help in the transition, particularly with issues involving the town’s relationship with the province.… Continue
New council and mayor to be sworn in tonight
Tonight at town hall, five re-elected and three new councillors, as well as a new mayor, will be sworn in.
The ceremony starts a 6:30pm and will be streamed online.
Outgoing Deputy Mayor Ron Aiken will make some remarks, CAO Jamie Burke will present service certificates, and mayor-elect Shawn Mesheau will have a chance for his first remarks as mayor.
Council will have their first regular meeting next week, on June 14.
The newly elected council is:
Andrew Black
Allison Butcher
Matt Estabrooks
Micheal Tower
Bruce Phinney
Bill Evans
Kenneth Hicks
Sabine Dietz
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