Councillor resigns

Coun. Stephen Mitchell announced his resignation from council, citing personal family matters.

Mitchell said he has thoroughly enjoyed his time as a town councillor and is proud of the work that has been done during his tenure.

“I am thankful to the citizens who put their trust and faith in me in the past two elections and apologize that I am unable to finish the term that I was elected to,” said Mitchell.

Mayor Glenn Taylor said it was with a heavy heart that he accepted the resignation.

Taylor told Mitchell that his utmost responsibility was to his family and said it was a pleasure serving with him.

Dedicated Hinton firefighters promoted

Mayor Glenn Taylor swore in two firefighters to higher ranks within the Hinton Fire Department.

Jack Walker and Colton Boutin now have the honour of being addressed as lieutenants and were blessed by Padre Bill Bulger upon completion of the ceremony.

Habitat for Humanity grows

Town manager Bernie Kreiner requested that council approve the donation of two town-owned lots (354 and 356 Boutin Ave.) to Habitat for Humanity, with the total $130,000 cost funded from the affordable housing program reserve.

According to existing laws the town may donate land at below market value to non-profit organizations.

A motion was made to approve the request and unanimously carried.

New naming policy

As a result of a newly established boards and committees structure, the town’s naming committee is no longer required.

The previous functions of the naming committee will now be fulfilled by the director of planning and technical services, Jean Anne Fraser, and the town’s land co-ordinator, Mindi Petkau.

This policy relates to the naming of streets, parks and other community facilities. It will not affect council’s role in the final decision of what places are named.

Leading the North Conference

Mayor Glenn Taylor asked council to authorize attendance of one or more councillors to an educational and informational conference being held in Fort McMurray, Jan. 25-27, 2012.

A letter of invitation described the “Leading the North 2012” event as  “the ‘must attend’ national conference of 2012.”

Speakers at the conference will discuss global issues that affect Alberta’s economy, in particular the oilsands.

Coun. Bill Bulger made a motion for approval of the request and the motion was carried for two elected officials to attend the conference.

Surprise party for dedicated volunteer

Mayor Glenn Taylor spoke of his recent attendance at a surprise high tea party for Hinton resident Linda Jonson at the Grace Lutheran church.

Jonson is well known for her volunteer and charity work for seniors.

“She has been recognized for her provincial voluntary efforts primarily on behalf of seniors,” Taylor said.