Plans are underway for a Special Municipal Election in September in the Village of Carbon to regain quorum after Mayor Bryan Peever tendered his resignation.
The Village of Carbon issued a press release on Thursday, July 27 when Mayor Peever announced his resignation.
He is the third elected official in the village to have resigned in the last two months. Due to the multiple exits, the Village no longer has the numbers on council to govern as per the Municipal Governance Act (MGA).
“Regrettably, the Village of Carbon Council is currently facing a quorum issue, which has severely impacted its ability to function effectively. A quorum represents the minimum number of council members required to conduct official business, such as voting on crucial matters and passing ordinances. The lack of a quorum has resulted in a state of gridlock, impeding progress on essential projects and initiatives,” states the release.
The Mail reported in its June 21 edition that Councillor Brian McHugh resigned, and in last week's Mail, it was reported that Councillor Renee O’Brien tendered her resignation.
This leaves Councillors Trina Anderson and Michelle Lomond.
During this time, residents of Carbon had instigated a petition to recall Peever and Anderson. It fell short of the required signatures.
According to the press release, the Village administration has been in touch with Municipal Affairs.
“The Village of Carbon has already taken steps to address the quorum challenge. The administration has reached out to the Minister of Municipal Affairs to seek guidance and support in resolving this matter promptly. Moreover, plans are underway to hold a special election on Thursday, September 21, 2023, to fill the vacant positions and restore the necessary quorum,” it states.