CLYDE – Less than a month after the municipal election, the Village of Clyde is looking for a new councillor.
Jerry Austin, officially acclaimed Oct. 18, resigned in advance of the Nov. 8 council meeting citing medical issues stemming from an accident earlier in his life. He says he has been experiencing memory loss and loss of balance.
“I have enjoyed decades of health no one thought I would ever have,” said Austin in a statement. “The only problem is that the change to that health happened to show up just days before my term as village councillor.”
While looking forward to his position on council, Austin says he didn’t feel it was right for him to serve with the health issues he is facing.
“I decided that the risk of my declining health was significant enough that it would be irresponsible of me to retain my position on village council,” he explained.
Following Austin's resignation, a byelection has been called for Dec. 17, 2021, while the nomination deadline is set for Nov. 26.
Council was provided the option to approach Municipal Affairs to request the ability to operate with only four members. Village CAO Ron Cust advised against operating down a councillor, stating that it was so early in the term that it shouldn’t be an issue to fill the vacant spot.
Mayor excited for what the future brings
Sporting two meetings under her belt, mayor Charis Logan is excited for what comes next. With all of council new to municipal politics, Logan says it’s a learning experience for everyone.
“I am very pleased with how our first couple of council meetings have gone,” said Logan Nov. 9. “Each council member is engaged, participating, eager to learn and serve our community. I am proud of our team and look forward to working more with each one in the months and years to come.”
Deputy mayor Patricia Hamaluk is also excited and says she is starting to get the hang of it.
“I must admit that I was initially overwhelmed by the amount of reading material we all have in preparation for both regular and committee meetings but it is beginning to be less intimidating,” Hamaluk added.
