The seven people who were elected to Estevan City Council during the October 24 civic election were sworn in during a ceremony on October 29.
Mayor Roy Ludwig and six councillors – Lori Carr, Greg Hoffort, Chris Istace, Brian Johnson, Dennis Moore and Kevin Smith – took the oath of office from Judge Karl Bazin. A large crowd, consisting of family members and supporters, gathered to witness the ceremony.
In a brief speech, Ludwig said Council would be getting together October 30 so that each member can share their respective vision for the community. He hopes that they will be able to incorporate those ideas, along with suggestions from people in the community, into a comprehensive strategic plan.
“It's important as we move forward to take into account all aspects of our community, as well as the needed improvements for our different demographics,” said Ludwig.
Ludwig said he would like to see sidewalks receive repairs, adequate lighting and proper access for wheelchairs and scooters, as more citizens than ever before are walking.
He would also like to see the City work with the provincial government on many fronts, including affordable housing, health care, the new nursing home and the new truck route.
Ludwig said the City is working with developers on the affordable housing front. Work continues on the recruitment and retention of physicians, and he hopes that St. Joseph's Hospital will eventually be able to secure a CT scan.
He would like to see improvements in parks and for pathways. And he believes day-to-day issues need to be dealt with in a more expedient fashion.
“In doing this, we have to keep in mind a balanced approach, and be more fiscally responsible,” said Ludwig.
The first regular meeting for the new Council will be on Monday, November 19.
