ATHABASCA — Athabasca County council has a new head for the first time since councillors took their seats in 2021, and Tracy Holland accepted the appointment following the first contested reeve vote during their term.
"First and foremost I would like to extend my gratitude to Coun. Hall, for his dedication, determination, and grit in his role as Reeve; your tireless efforts are commendable," said Holland during the Oct. 31 organizational meeting. "I would also like to thank Coun. Cromwell for the reeve nomination, and my colleagues for your confidence in me to take on this role, and for your patience as I learn it. I'm truly honoured and I look forward to continuing our work."
Holland received five votes by secret ballot to secure the position, and Coun. Ashtin Anderson was also nonimated, receiving the remaining four votes.
Former reeve Brian Hall announced his intention to not put his name up for the position during the Oct. 22 special budget meeting.
Related: Brian Hall stepping back from Athabasca County reeveship
The title of deputy reeve also changed hands for the first time this term; replacing Anderson is Coun. Rob Minns, also nominated by Cromwell. The vote for deputy followed the same split, but was not done by secret ballot. Minns received support from councillors Joe Gerlach, Kelly Chamzuk, Holland, Cromwell, and his own vote, while councillors Natasha Kapitaniuk, Camille Wallach, Anderson and Hall reserved their votes for Anderson.
"I, Rob Minns, solemnly affirm that I will diligently, faithfully, and to the best of my ability execute according to the law of the office of deputy reeve for Athabasca County," said Minns, swearing his oath.
