LAC LA BICHE - Lac La Biche County Ward 1 Coun. Darlene Beniuk has issued an apology, following a special meeting held on July 29, regarding comments she made during a July 22 council meeting.
During the special meeting last Tuesday, council discussed a matter described as “intergovernmental relations” in closed session. Then, a motion was put forward in the public portion of the meeting demanding Beniuk issue a written and public apology for the comments she made during the July 22 meeting. The motion was carried 8-1.
When asked to speak to the request, Beniuk explained that she is seeking legal counsel regarding the matter. She was unwilling to issue an apology at the time.
“I can’t apologize for telling the truth,” Beniuk stated during the meeting.
On Aug. 3, County of Lac La Biche administration forwarded a short letter signed by Beniuk to Lakeland This Week. The letter, which was dated, July 29, and named "Letter to Councillor Michael Lameman from Councillor Beniuk,” stated: “I, Councillor Darlene Beniuk, apologize for the comments | made during the July 22, 2025, Regular Council Meeting. I apologize if my comments were offensive.”
Background
During the July 22 meeting, a request to repair an intersection on Beaver Lake Cree Nation was the subject of a contentious half-hour debate among Lac La Biche County council.
