Fernie City Hall council chambers were filled with locals welcoming the three new councillors along with the three re-elected councillors and Mayor Mary Giuliano. The evening commenced with the Director of Corporate Administration Services welcoming all attendees and acknowledging special guests, which included Fire Chief Ted Ruiter, Staff Sgt. Lorne Craig and Fire Prevention Officer Dave Kurchenska.
“All of you being here made this evening really special with your words,” Giuliano said during her inaugural address.
The inaugural ceremony welcome was followed by the singing of the Canadian National Anthem, led by Maria Landa and the singing of the British National Anthem, led by Clare Bernier.
Following the anthem, Chief Election Officer Kevin Allen administered the Oath of Office to Mayor Giuliano, followed by the administration of oath to office being presented to councillors Phil Iddon, Jon Levesque, Dan McSkimming, Ange Qualizza, Dennis Schafer and Joe Warshawsky.
Pastor Shawn Barden then led an invocation prayer prior to Giuliano officially calling the meeting to order.
“Three years ago I was in the same chair amazed that I was actually sitting in it and at the same time feeling confident enough in the knowledge that I could do the job, do it well and achieve some positive change,” Giuliano said during her inaugural address. “We accomplished a great deal for Fernie during the past three years and I want to thank and acknowledge past council members, all of our directors and employees and especially our C.E.O. Jim Hendrix for their contributions.”
She went on to say of past council members, “Each one brings a certain style and knowledge to their position,” adding, “the newest members of the team I am sure share the same passion for this town as the rest of us.”
The ceremony was concluded with the appointment of deputy mayor and committee members and a reception, where guests were given the opportunity to speak with the 2014 councillors and mayor while enjoying refreshments.