The remaining one Morrin Village Councillor is no longer serving as Municipal Affairs has appointed an administrator to oversee the operation of the village.
“Right now, two of the three Village of Morrin councillors have resigned leaving council with no quorum, and therefore, the Village is unable to conduct business or hold regular council meetings,” said Municipal affair press secretary Justin Marshall. “Minister Allard has appointed Harold Johnsrude as a contracted Official Administrator to assume the powers and duties of the Village of Morrin council. He will be working closely with the village’s Chief Administrative Officer to ensure village operations continue.”
There has been turmoil in the village office, which culminated with the resignation of former Mayor Howard Helton and Councillor Melissa Wilton. M’liss Edwards was appointed mayor at the October 28 organizational meeting, previous to Wilton’s final resignation.
With these changes, Edwards is no longer serving on council.
“With the appointment of Mr. Harold Johnsrude, the remaining councillor is no longer in their role. We thank the councillors for their public service. Regular meetings will continue as scheduled with the Official Administrator being in the role of village council,” said Marshall.
Edwards is disappointed with the decision.
“I am appealing because I don’t feel it is fair that I should be bumped off when I didn’t resign,” said Edwards. “I am not satisfied with the dismissal.”
She is unsure what her avenue is to appeal the decision but is planning to write Minister Allard.
Marshall says Mr. Johnsrude has extensive knowledge and experience in local government, and will work to ensure the community remains healthy and sustainable into the future. He has been appointed to serve until December 17, 2021, or until a council quorum has been restored.
“On December 4, 2020, a letter from Minister Allard was mailed to all village residents to update them on the situation. There will be a December council meeting.”
