Election Results

What a rookie blogger mistake--in all the excitement of the election on Monday, I forgot to post the results here yesterday!

Iris Callioux defeated incumbent Lorne Mann, bringing a new era to Peace River Town Council as (if I have my history correct) the first woman mayor. Congratulations on an effective and hard-fought campaign!

I'm thrilled to be among the new councillors, who also include Berry Heinen, Jim Hancock and Wanda Laurin. The new Council is fortunate to also have depth of experience with the return of incumbents Don Good and Neil Martin as well as the experience on another council that Jim Hancock brings.

Voters appear to have measured the successes of the former Council and Mayor against what they hope for the future, which includes more openness in how Council conducts its business and attention to issues that go beyond (as well as include) economic development. I think the next three years are going to be exciting and challenging.

Many thanks to those who won't be returning to Council--Lorne Mann, Geoff Milligan, Tom Day, and Gordon Troup. Their commitment to the Town over their past years of service is much appreciated. I hope that once they've had a chance to overcome their disappointment at not being re-elected they will find ways to enjoy having more free time or find exciting new opportunities for their experience and energy.

For the new Mayor and Council, the next weeks and months will mean a huge learning curve, starting on Monday with our first meeting and swearing in. Whew--what have we got ourselves into? Stay tuned!