August 4th 1971
Free Press Files
The four men and one woman who are charged with directing the affairs of Elkford. BC’s newest municipality, were sworn in Monday night by Judge Hugh Swayze of Fernie in a simple ceremony in the community hall.
In its first action as new council, the group elected Horace Keys as Elkford’s first Mayor and it was to him that Ian Dodds, executive assistant to Municipal Affairs Minister Dan Campbell, presented the letters patent.
Mr. Dodds followed this up by presenting a gravel and mallet from the minister to Mr. Keys. The engraving on the gift was a little premature. It stated the inaugural meeting was held on July 16th instead of the actual august 2. There was little business other than formalities. Mrs Grace Malnarich was named acting clerk and acting treasurer. Jack Fentzko of Fernie was named auditor and the Royal Bank Branch in Sparwood was selected as the bank. Next meeting was set for Aug. 10 in Elkford information office.
Mayor Keys advised councilor George Moxham to see what he could do to come up with better accommodation for future meetings, but there is so far no plan for a community centre.
Stan Wilson, Chairman of the RDEK and MLA Leo Nimsick were among the guests for the meeting. Both men, who were accompanied by their wives, extended congratulations to the new municipality.
Mr. Wilson described some of the services available from the RDEK, advising that small communities cannot hire on their own such people as building inspectors, assessors and planners. The RDEK has men available for municipalities.
Judge Swayze also said a few words as did several other guests.
Mr. Dodds speaking on behalf of Mr. Campbell, advised the new council that not only the provincial government but also branches of the federal government are available to advise and assist municipalities.
The new council is composed of Mayor Keys, Mrs Barbara Taplin, Karl Maartman, Tonu Eeglon and George Moxham.
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