Peter Fassbender, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development, has issued the following statement regarding the recent resignations from the Village of McBride council:

“It is unfortunate the community has found itself in the situation of being without quorum on their village council. However, the ministry is taking all necessary action to help McBride move forward. We recognize that a number of serious concerns have been raised within the community, and this is why restoring stability is my immediate priority by taking the following steps:

• On Nov. 29, I signed a Ministerial Order that allows the remaining two members of council to constitute a quorum until persons are elected and take office to fill the vacancies.
• During this time of transition, the mayor and the remaining council member have been advised to not make any long-term decisions, including any that create legal or financial liabilities for the village. Their focus should only be on decisions essential to sustaining the operations of government.
• Council must take immediate steps to appoint a chief electoral officer (CEO) and deputy chief election officer to run the by-election. Once appointed, the date for the general election is to fall on a Saturday and be no later than 80 days after the CEO is appointed.
• A municipal advisor will be brought in, paid for by the Province, to work with McBride village staff, council and the community to help stabilize municipal operations in the short term. The advisor will also support the community and council in the long term by recommending strategies for a successful and stable future.
• The inspector of municipalities will attend in McBride to meet with council and staff to provide them with additional information about the role of the municipal advisor, who will report back to her, and to further emphasize my expectations of council while they act in their limited capacity.

“It is imperative that there is a clear path to order and good government so that community members interested in stepping forward as candidates in the by-election will have confidence in their road ahead.”