Members of Summerland’s municipal council took the oath of office and got ready for business at the inaugural council meeting on Monday afternoon.
Judge Marguerite Shaw of Penticton conducted the swearing-in ceremony.
“Thanks are due for participating in and strengthening our democracy,” she said. “The community owes you all a debt of gratitude.”
Municipal elections had been held on Nov. 19.
Mayor Janice Perrino retained her seat by acclamation. Incumbents Bruce Hallquist and Lloyd Christopherson were re-elected. Robert Hacking, Orv Robson, Peter Waterman and Martin Van Alphen were also elected. Of the new councillors, Waterman had served as a councillor previously, from 2005 to 2008.
In her inaugural address, Perrino acknowledged the work done by the outgoing council.
“I know the past council put Summerland on the right path,” she said. “They laid the groundwork for you and I know you will keep this community moving forward.”
She said council’s priority will be to continue to serve the public during the next term.
“We must do everything we can to preserve and promote our agricultural land, our business community, tourism capabilities and provide adequate housing for all of our families from the young on up to our seniors,” she said. “Our obligation is to secure a healthy, vibrant future for Summerland in which we can live, work and play. We have so much to be thankful for, so much to celebrate.”