On Monday evening, newly-elected councillors and the mayor in the District of Sparwood were sworn in by Queen’s Council Glen Purdy.

Mayor Cal McDougall delivered his inaugural address, highlighting communication and expanding commercial and industrial tax base as an important aspect of growth moving forward.

“Communication is a key to a well-informed council, staff and community. I plan to enhance that communication so that council can keep citizens in the loop as to what is happening and citizens can bring forward ideas to make Sparwood a better place to live,” said McDougall.

McDougall also spoke of former councillor Sharon Fraser, who was not re-elected after 28 years of service on council.

“[Sharon] put her heart and soul into serving Sparwood for over 28 years and she will be missed,” he said.

Coun. Jenna Jensen commented, “There have been a lot of people who have sat in these chairs and I would like to thank them as role models and for the hard work they have put in to get me to where I am today.”

Coun. Joe Jarina added, “I think we have a good team here to move forward and it’s coming back to me from 1980 when I was here last time.”

A short reception followed the meeting.