MD of Bonnyville sworn in as new council

The new MD of Bonnyville council has been sworn in, following the municipal election.
It was their first council meeting since being elected for their respective wards, and councillors both old and new to the chambers were sworn in for a four-year term.
See photos in Tuesday's edition.

During their Wednesday, Oct. 25 meeting, MD of Bonnyville council voted in favour of starting the process of arranging a meeting with residents, local dignitaries, RCMP, peace officers, and federal and provincial officials.
"We would bring in all of the players, all of our neighbours, all of the sources of information that we have, and put it out to the public. It shows the public that we're concerned and that we want to do something," explained MD Reeve Greg Sawchuk.
Coun. Dana Swigart agreed that something needed to be done, especially since he has been hearing from residents that they are considering moving elsewhere if something doesn't change.
"I think we need to do something. I am hearing people say they want to move out of the area because it's getting too rough. We have to react," he expressed.
However, it's not just the residential side that council needs to consider.
Local businesses are also being impacted by crime in the area, Coun. Ben Fadeyiw noted.
"It can be crippling for a small business."
Read more in Tuesday's edition of the Nouvelle.

A resident leasing land northeast of Franchere has put in a request to clear the property, which is currently described as being covered with trees.
Brant Carson, who has been leasing the land from the MD of Bonnyville since 1994, wants to sell the logs to a logging company, and seed the lot.
Caroline Palmer, director planning and development for the MD, said by doing so Carson would only be increasing the value of the property.
While some councillors agreed it was the way to go, others wanted more information before deciding.
"The question is whether or not we are wanting to get into the logging business," Sawchuk questioned.
For the full story check out next week's paper.

The bridge crossing Columbine Creek has been temporarily closed while the MD works out a replacement plan.
Director of transportation and utilities Darcy Zelisko expressed concern that some residents are still trying to use the bridge, however, it poses a danger to the public.
The area has been blocked off, and Zelisko wants to remind residents that they are not to use the bridge until further notice.

The MD of Bonnyville has scheduled their annual trapper course from Dec. 1 to 3.
The MD will be releasing more information as the date approaches.