Weeks of upheaval on Morrin Village council ended with two resignations, and another attempt to rescind a resignation.
A storm has been brewing within the council, and in September, Councillor Melissa Wilton attempted to resign her seat on council. However, this was rebuffed by the administration, and a day later, she rescinded her resignation. Wilton was acclaimed in a 2019 by-election.
Councillor M’liss Edwards explained Mayor Howard Helton sought advice that stated under the Municipal Government Act, Wilton’s resignation came into effect at the time of her resignation. Administration had also obtained legal advice.
“It said until a resignation or rescindment is accepted at a
council meeting, they
are not complete,” said Edwards.
Drumhellermail.com reported that on Wednesday afternoon, October 21, Mayor Howard Helton also resigned from Council. This was accepted by the administration and then council at their regular meeting that evening. Edwards told the Mail the province’s Municipal Affairs department has been informed of his resignation.
A day later, Wilton again resigned from council.
On Friday morning, October 23, former Mayor Helton came to the Morrin Village office and attempted to rescind his resignation. Mr. Helton chose not to comment to the Mail.
At this point, it appears Edwards, who was appointed mayor at the organizational meeting on Wednesday evening, is the sole councillor left.
Edwards explains the village has two directions it could possibly take in the future; one is to hold by-elections to fill the vacant seats; the other is to have the Minister of Municipal Affairs appoint an officer to work with the village. She said they are leaning toward the second option.
“To have someone come in that is impartial and knowledgeable and comes from Municipal Affairs,” said Edwards. “That would help us get everything straightened out.”
